Deaths on January 7

J. L. B. Smith, South African chemist and academic (b. 1897)

James Leonard Brierley Smith (26 September 1897 – 8 January 1968), widely recognized as J. L. B. Smith, was a pioneering South African scientist whose multidisciplinary expertise left an indelible mark on both organic chemistry and, most notably, ichthyology. A distinguished university professor, he rose to international prominence for a discovery that reshaped our understanding of evolutionary history: the definitive identification of a coelacanth, a fish species previously believed to have been extinct for millions of years.

The Profound Contributions of J. L. B. Smith

Born in Graaff-Reinet, Cape Colony, James Leonard Brierley Smith pursued a rigorous academic path that encompassed diverse scientific disciplines. He initially specialized as an organic chemist, a field in which he earned his qualifications and taught for many years. However, it was his passion for marine life that led him to become a renowned ichthyologist, the scientific study of fish. He served as a esteemed professor at Rhodes University in Grahamstown (now Makhanda), where he dedicated much of his career to research and education in both chemistry and ichthyology.

The Coelacanth: A "Living Fossil" Rediscovered

J. L. B. Smith's most celebrated achievement occurred in 1938, a moment that stands as one of the most significant zoological discoveries of the 20th century. He was presented with a peculiar, preserved fish specimen that had been caught by local fishermen off the Chalumna River mouth, near East London, South Africa. This extraordinary specimen was initially brought to the attention of Marjorie Courtenay-Latimer, curator of the East London Museum. Recognizing its unusual characteristics, she contacted Professor Smith, who was immediately captivated by the fish's unique morphology.

Despite the specimen being in a state of advanced decomposition, Smith, through meticulous examination of the available features, identified it as a coelacanth. This was an astonishing revelation because coelacanths, such as those belonging to the genus Latimeria, were thought to have vanished from the fossil record approximately 66 million years ago, at the end of the Cretaceous period, making their existence contemporaneous with the last of the dinosaurs. The discovery of a living coelacanth fundamentally challenged prevailing scientific assumptions about the extinction of ancient lineages, earning the coelacanth the popular moniker of a "living fossil" – a term for organisms that have remained largely unchanged over vast geological timescales.

Smith's identification was based on the distinctive lobed fins, a defining characteristic of sarcopterygian (lobe-finned) fish, which are evolutionary precursors to terrestrial vertebrates. His dedication to confirming this incredible find led to an extensive and often challenging search for a second specimen. This relentless pursuit culminated in 1952 with the discovery of another coelacanth near the Comoro Islands, finally providing fresh, well-preserved material for study and cementing the reality of this remarkable survivor.

Legacy and Enduring Impact

Beyond the coelacanth, J. L. B. Smith's work significantly expanded the known diversity of South African marine fishes. He authored numerous scientific papers and, most notably, the seminal book "Old Fourlegs: The Story of the Coelacanth" (1956), which chronicled his personal journey and the scientific significance of the discovery. His contributions were vital in establishing South Africa as a key region for marine ichthyological research and continue to inspire generations of scientists interested in evolutionary biology and biodiversity.

Frequently Asked Questions About J. L. B. Smith and the Coelacanth

Who was J. L. B. Smith?

J. L. B. Smith, full name James Leonard Brierley Smith, was a distinguished South African ichthyologist, organic chemist, and university professor. He is best known for being the first to identify a live coelacanth specimen, a fish thought to have been extinct for millions of years.

What is an ichthyologist?

An ichthyologist is a zoologist who specializes in the study of fish. This field encompasses fish anatomy, physiology, ecology, behavior, and evolution.

What is the significance of the coelacanth discovery?

The discovery of a living coelacanth, often called a "living fossil," was highly significant because it was thought to have become extinct millions of years ago. Its rediscovery provided crucial insights into the evolution of vertebrates and challenged existing theories about extinction events, demonstrating the remarkable persistence of some ancient lineages.

When and where was the first living coelacanth identified?

The first living coelacanth was identified by J. L. B. Smith in 1938. The specimen was caught by fishermen near the mouth of the Chalumna River, off the coast of East London, South Africa, and brought to the attention of Marjorie Courtenay-Latimer at the East London Museum.

What university was J. L. B. Smith associated with?

J. L. B. Smith was a professor at Rhodes University in Grahamstown (now Makhanda), South Africa, where he conducted much of his groundbreaking research in both chemistry and ichthyology.