[Coral-List] Call for Abstracts - ICRS 2016 Session 80: "Offshore Coral Reefs in the South China Sea: Science, Problems and Solutions"

[John Mcmanus]

Please consider submitting abstracts for a session on the Offshore Coral Reefs of the South China Sea.

Over the last few years, there has been a tremendous upsurge in studies of these globally important, high diversity reef systems. For all those who have done work concerning these reefs, this is your chance to trade results and help us build up a a clearer understanding of these little-known systems.. This will not be a forum for reinforcing national claims, but there is a great deal to be learned from comparing information from all the scientific disciplines discussed in the abstract, including scientific reef management.

Session 80: Offshore Coral Reefs in the South China Sea: Science, Problems and Solutions

Organizers: John W. McManus and Kwang-Tsao Shao

Session Page: https://www.sgmeet.com/icrs2016/sessionschedule.asp?SessionID=80
Abstract Submissions: https://www.sgmeet.com/icrs2016/abstractinfo.asp

Abstract: Coral reefs of the South China Sea beyond 50 km from major land masses include many highly speciose ecosystems. They are ecologically highly interconnected, due to complex current patterns driven by reversing monsoons. Most consist of partial or fully-formed atolls. Some support coral islands with diverse vegetation which form stepping stones for migratory birds and nesting grounds for sea turtles. Most of these reefs are subject to between two and four overlapping national jurisdictional claims. Several of the more than 50 military outposts in the region are undergoing expansion. Recent large-scale dredging and filling operations have raised concerns that important fishery and biodiversity resources are being degraded, as well as the abilities of the wave-breaking reef crests to keep up with rising sea levels. Early suggestions for a freeze on claims and claim-supportive activities, coupled with coordinated environmental management, have lately been reconsidered by policy-makers as ways to promote peace and resource security. This session will bring together recent studies of biological and physical aspects of these ecosystems, and of relevant policy, economic and social issues. The specific focus will be on the consideration of various options for ensuring an environmentally sustainable and peaceful future for these important ecosystems.

Feel free to contact me for further information.

See you in Hawaii!!

--
John

John W. McManus, PhD.
Professor, Marine Biology and Ecology
Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science (RSMAS)
University of Miami.
Website: http://www.rsmas.miami.edu/people/faculty-index/?p=john-mcmanus
NCORE Website: http://ncore.rsmas.miami.edu/
ResearchGate site: http://www.researchgate.net/profile/John_Mcmanus4

If you lose a diamond ring in the bedroom, don't search for it in the living room just because the light there is better.