The trait-based approach describes ecosystems as consisting of functional types rather than species, characterising them by a few key traits that are interrelated through trade-offs. Examples of traits are organism’s body size, feeding mode, predator-prey size ratios, optimization for fast growth due to proteome allocation, or defence characteristics. The rationale is that the spatio-temporal distribution of organisms and their functional role in ecosystems depend on their traits rather than on their taxonomical affiliation. As such, the trait-based approach has the potential to describe complex ecosystems in simple ways and to assess the effects of environmental change on ecosystem structure and function.
This workshop aims to discuss the latest research in trait-based ecology of the ocean encompassing all realms of life (e.g., phytoplankton, bacteria, fish, whales, corals). We invite scientists that use either experimental, statistical, or modelling approaches to investigate topics related (but not limited) to the following:
- Traits and trade-offs of aquatic organisms
- Distribution of organisms and/or traits in space and time
- How organisms and their traits shape ecosystem functions
Save the Date! August 4-7, 2025
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Event Details
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Emily Zakem
Biosphere Sciences & Engineering
Carnegie Science
ezakem@carnegiescience.edu
Allison Moreno (University of California, Santa Cruz)
www.allimoreno.com/
Jessica Luo (Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory)
www.gfdl.noaa.gov/jessica-luos-homepage
Mridul Thomas (University of Geneva)
Jennifer Bhatnagar (Boston University)
Rooms have been reserved at the Asilomar Conference Center. The all-inclusive registration will include room, board, and meeting fees.
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Asilomar Conference Center
With 107 acres of nature grounds steps from the beach, the Asilomar Conference Center provides the perfect backdrop to explore and discuss the intricacies of ocean life with friends and colleagues. The property was designated as a Historic Landmark in 1987 and boasts a rich history and unique architecture for guests to enjoy. Asilomar is also located near a wide array of activities and things to do in the Pacific Grove area.
Learn morePast Workshops
- 6th Workshop | 2023 | Copenhagen, Denmark
- 5th Workshop | 2022 | Tennessee, USA
- 4th Workshop | 2019 | Buckinghamshire, UK
- 3rd Workshop | 2017 | Soldstrand, Bergen, Norway
- 2nd Workshop | 2015 | New Hampshire, USA
- 1st Workshop | 2013 | Copenhagen, Denmark