Dear Cryolist members!
Apologies for cross-posting.
We would like to invite you to submit abstracts to the session Sub-Antarctic Islands – Sentinels of Change to be held at the upcoming SCAR OSC (3-7 August). The session description is given below. For a full list of sessions please visit https://www.scarcomnap2020.org/available-sessions/. Abstract submission closes 28 February.
Straddling the Antarctic Polar Front, sub-Antarctic islands are geographically unique and exhibit both periglacial and glacial conditions. These islands host unique vegetation and are important breeding sites yet are also host to numerous threatened species. Permafrost is largely sporadic but useful as a proxy for investigating response to a changing climate. Environmental thresholds here are also narrow and contemporary climate changes, characterised by warming temperatures, fluctuations in moisture, and a higher frequency of extreme events, have the potential to narrow (or even surpass) these thresholds. As such, these islands can be regarded as sentinels of change by serving as global early warning systems.
Changes observed in the glacial and periglacial environment will impact these unique ecosystems, affecting the biodiversity of fauna and flora, as well as geomorphology, soil dynamics, and much more. Furthermore, changes in the terrestrial and benthic environments will alter the tourism and heritage potential of these islands. This session aims to showcase sub-Antarctic research and the role of the region as a sentinel of change. Submission from ANTOS and participants of the 4th International sub-Antarctic Forum are specifically invited, as are those of emerging researchers.
