The use of morphological features in order to systematically classify organisms, has long been recognized. However, developing countries such as South Africa, still have a low number of active regional taxonomists, particularly for invertebrates such as deep-water corals. This paucity in foundational knowledge- poses a potential hindrance to South Africa’s progress on effective management of deep-water coral ecosystems. In order to improve this knowledge gap, a three-day workshop will be hosted SANBI, DEA: Oceans and Coasts and Iziko Museum through the ACEP: Deep Forest Project.
Through attending the workshop, participants can expect to develop the following skills:
- An understanding of the importance of taxonomy and terminology used in taxonomic descriptions of deep-water coral species.
- An understanding of the deep-water coral ecology and the management of such ecosystems.
- Practical training on the identification of deep-water stony corals.
If you are interested in attending this workshop, please complete the workshop application form by following link below:
https://goo.gl/forms/znb5vlr0LqzyxOWk1
Kindly take note that:
- The workshop will be held in Cape Town, venue TBC.
- Space is limited to 20 participants.
- Transport and accommodation is at the cost of the participant.
- Lunch and tea will be served.
*Application deadline is the 20 December 2018. Late applications will not be considered. Please contact zfilander@gmail.com for any enquiries.