Conservation Physiology of Marine Fishes

Marine fish are important resources in the EU but are very vulnerable to climate change. Conservation physiology evaluates how they respond to major environmental factors and sustain populations in the face of environmental pressures. This can identify causal mechanisms underlying conservation problems, and thereby improve predictions on impacts of expected challenges and refine conservation strategies. The proposed COST action would provide for: A network of marine fish conservation physiology researchers, to promote exchange of ideas and devise common approaches. Interactions among physiologists, ecologists and modellers, to improve forecasting and identify research priorities. Interactions among physiologists and managers/policy makers, to integrate physiology into conservation strategies/decisions. This will be achieved through conferences, workshops, dedicated publications, targeted scientific exchanges (especially for young scientists), and common funding applications.