Hello,
We invite you to submit an abstract for a talk at the Society for Freshwater Science Annual Meeting <http://sfsannualmeeting.org/> May 21-26, 2016 in Sacramento, California. We are organizing a special session entitled “Algal data as a critical component of bioassessment: Obtaining useful results in the face of continued taxonomic fluidity.” When you submit an abstract, please select “Special Session S16: Algal Data as a Component of Bioassessment” as your first choice. The abstract submission system <http://conference.usu.edu/system/login.cfm?eid=14520> is open and the abstract submission deadline is Thursday, January 29, 2016. *Session Description* Algal taxonomy, as is the case with most microbial taxonomy, is in a constant state of flux. New molecular evidence has led to change in many generic and species concepts. Also, identification of taxa using light microscopy can be challenging due to difficulty in resolution of distinctive characteristics, cryptic species, and inherent phenotypic plasticity and morphological variability. Variable sampling and laboratory approaches also contribute to limitations in algal species identification. Because of these issues we may find algal data falling below the Quality Control criteria that were developed for other organisms, raising concerns about the validity and utility of such data. The goal of this session is to 1) illustrate the robustness and necessity of traditional algal bioassessment metrics in spite of this taxonomic fluidity; 2) explore the use of new metrics [e.g., using higher-level taxonomy, taxonomic lump levels, community types (species co-occurrence)]; 3) show the benefit of using soft algal metrics for many bioassessment questions; 4) address the importance of identifying the data set or analysis that is most appropriate and efficient for answering a particular question; and 5) investigate how algal metrics fare in increasingly wide-spread drought-stricken areas . Large and small-scale algal bioassessments are used worldwide to improve evaluation of issues within aquatic systems, leading to better management plans. Presentations will be representative of those using algal assessment in management as well as those doing academic research. We are planning two other events in conjunction with the special session. On Friday, May 20, Drs. Rosalina Stancheva and Julianne Heinlein are offering a pre-meeting workshop <http://sfsannualmeeting.org/Workshops.cfm>, “Bioassessment Analytical Methods for Freshwater Soft-Bodied Algae.” The workshop is limited to 20 participants. With Sean Sullivan of Rhithron, we are planning to offer a forum discussion of QA-QC issues pertaining to algal bioassessment on a date to be determined. Please feel free to forward this invitation to others. If you have any questions about the special session, please contact us. We look forward to seeing you in Sacramento. Gina LaLiberte Dr. Julianne Heinlein [email protected] [email protected] Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources Great Lakes Environmental Center -- Dr. Julianne Heinlein [email protected] Aquatic Ecologist/Algal Taxonomist Great Lakes Environmental Center, Inc. Traverse City, MI
