[Coral-List] Reminder - Invitation for Paper Submissions: ICRS Mini-Symposium on Phase shifts and alternative states on coral reefs

[Albert Norström]

Dear all,

This is just a reminder that we invite submissions for our mini-symposium on "Phase shifts and alternative states on coral reefs" at the 12th
International Coral Reef Symposium in Cairns 9-13 July 2011. 

Submissions are due by 1 October 2011 at http://www.icrs2012.com/AbstractSubmission.htm. This mini-symposium falls under the theme: Ecological dynamics, resilience and phase shifts). 

Coral reef degradation is often associated with reefs undergoing phase shifts in community structure to a new alternative state. For example, coral dominated reefs can shift to alternate states dominated by macroalgae, soft corals, sponges or sea urchins. These shifts can be very problematic for managers and resource-users as the new, since they tend to be persistent. 

The mini-symposium "Phase shifts and alternative states on coral reefs" will welcome presentations dealing with the following broad questions:

a) What defines a phase shift and what are the range of alternative states on coral reefs? What slow (chronic) and fast (episodic or sudden shocks) drivers cause phase shifts to different alternative states?

b) Can we identify critical thresholds that trigger phase shifts?  How will such thresholds be affected by different biodiversity, connectivity and climate regimes?

c) What are the different mechanisms underpinning the persistence of alternative states? What scales do these mechanisms operate across?

d) What ecological and socioeconomic processes facilitate the reversal of phase shifts from undesirable states back to coral-dominated states?

For more information please follow the links to the 12th ICRS website (http://www.icrs2012.com/AbstractSubmission.htm) or email Albert Norström (albert at ecology.su.se).

Kind regards,
Albert Norström, Magnus Nyström



Albert Norström, PhD
Stockholm Resilience Centre
Programme on Ecosystem Change and Society (PECS)
Stockholm University

Phone: +46 (0)734 60 70 68
Email: albert at ecology.su.se
Blog: www.sdupdate.org