Important Nordic marine science conference

The effects of climate change and ocean acidification on vulnerable organisms is a important topic at  the Nordic Marine Science Conference in October 2013. Foto: MAREANO/IMR.

Nordic marine scientists are gathering at Holmen Fjordhotell just outside Oslo at the end of October. The title for the conference is "Marine ecosystems in a changing environment". A number of international experts have been invited to give key note speeches; in addition there will be many talks and posters from members of the Nordic marine societies. The conference has a wide selection of  interesting themes. The effects of climate change and ocean acidification on ecosystems and vulnerable organisms is a key topic. Other sessions include genetic and molecular studies, multiple stressors in coastal systems, aquaculture and fish diseases, the future within modelling and forecasting, and an open session. The ecosystems under pressure in Oslofjord are also on the agenda, and gives a local connection.

- Many of the topics are important for MAREANO, says Terje Thorsnes at the Geological Survey of Norway (NGU). He is the conference chair, and has been responsible for the work of NGU in the MAREANO programme for several years. - The marine biologists from the Institute of Marine Research have pointed out that the results from MAREANO are important for the studies of the spatial distribution of ecosystems along a North-South gradient, potentially connected to changes in the ocean climate. The Norwegian Environment Agency has addressed the significance of ocean acification and how MAREANO can contribute to this, concludes Thorsnes.

Students (MSc candidates, PhD candidates) and recently graduated doctorates can apply for a full refund of costs for conference participation.

For more information and registration, see www.havforsk.no. The extended deadline for abstracts is 13.9. The conference is organised by the Norwegian Oceanographic Society (NHF) in cooperation with the swedish Society for Marine Science (SHF). The venue is Holmen Fjordhotell located close to the Oslofjord, which is renowned for its good food and excellent spa facilities (http://www.holmenfjordhotell.no/).