Abstract
Dr. Metka Povž (1944–2024) was a distinguished Slovenian ichthyologist whose career spanned over five decades, during which she authored more than 500 publications, both scientific and professional. Her work significantly advanced knowledge of freshwater fish in Slovenia and the broader Balkan region, with particular emphasis on species inventories and fish conservation. This paper reviews her major scientific contributions, including her role in protecting endangered native fish species, such as the preservation of pure populations of marble trout Salmo marmoratus, her research on non-native fish species, and her involvement in the protection of freshwater habitats. Her work remains a cornerstone in the field of ichthyology in the region and continues to inspire the ichthyological community.