This session explores the science underpinning the structure, function, and dynamics of marine ecosystems in the face of growing human pressures. Activities that physically disturb the seafloor—such as demersal fishing, marine aggregate extraction, and offshore renewable energy development—can significantly alter the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of benthic ecosystems. These disturbances can disrupt ecosystem functioning, with effects that vary in scale from local to global and may persist from days to decades. The extent and longevity of these impacts are closely tied to the environmental context in which they occur, highlighting the need for context-specific assessments and management strategies.
This session focuses on advancing our understanding of how seabed-disturbing activities affect ecosystem functioning. We welcome contributions that explore the ecological and/or biogeochemical consequences of these disturbances, as well as tools and strategies for assessing and mitigating their impacts.
Specifically, we invite submissions on the following topics:
- Experimental, observational, or modelling studies examining the individual and/or cumulative effects of human activities on benthic biota (macrofauna, meiofauna, and microfauna) and the ecosystem processes they mediate.
- Development and application of methods and models to assess and quantify the ecological and/or biogeochemical impacts of pressures such as demersal fishing, marine aggregate extraction, and offshore renewable energy, with a focus on supporting informed decision-making and maintaining seabed integrity.
- Use of indicators to evaluate benthic ecosystem state and function.
- Evaluation of protection and management strategies designed to address the interactions between human activities and benthic ecosystem functioning in coastal and shelf environments.
This session encourages interdisciplinary approaches that integrate ecological, biogeochemical, and management perspectives to promote sustainable use of seabed resources.
