INCISE, the International Network for Submarine Canyon Investigation and Scientific Exchange, is an initiative that aims to bring together scientists working on all aspects of submarine canyon research, and to stimulate discussions across disciplines. The 2018 INCISE Symposium will take place in Shenzhen, Guangdong, China, from 5-7 November 2018. The event is hosted by the Department of Ocean Science & Engineering, a department of SUSTech that concentrates on exploring global oceans.
Abstract submission is open through 15 September 2018. CLICK Sign In TO START!
According to recent studies derived from high-resolution seafloor mapping, in the order of 10,000 submarine canyons exist worldwide. Fewer than one hundred canyons (only 1%) have been studied with some level of detail in terms of geology, physical oceanography, or habitat heterogeneity and biodiversity.
Submarine canyons are very important features along the world’s continental and island margins. They create terrain habitat heterogeneity and provide important pathways for terrestrial sediments and carbon, detrital organic matter, pollutants and marine debris from the shelf to the deep sea. Canyons often concentrate organic matter enhancing overall ecosystem biomass and fisheries and acting as biodiversity hotspots. Canyons are also conduits for destructive gravity flows that caused devastating geohazards.
Recent advances in technology (e.g., ROVs, AUVs, gliders, etc.) allowed the expansion in the exploration of submarine canyons, revealing exuberant ecosystems with never-seen before life forms and entire habitats. However, while the scientific exploration on canyons advances, so does the human footprint into the deep sea, and on canyons in particular, with the increased worldwide demands for oil and gas, mineral deposits, and fisheries.
Therefore, the scientific community has the responsibility to prepare a comprehensive assessment of the role of submarine canyons in generating and maintaining deep-sea biodiversity, ecosystem function and services; and in support of developing marine policies defining clear strategies for conservation.
