Flatfishes are an important component of the demersal fish community in shelf ecosystems around the world, whereas their recruitment dynamics is closely related to processes taking place in the pelagic (eggs and larvae) and benthic realm (life history stages following metamorphosis). Flatfish populations are heavily affected by a variety of human activities. Several species are highly appreciated as food and have been exploited for many centuries. Their close relationship with the sea bed expose them to pollutants, whereas some species may also be affected by habitat loss due to infrastructural works such as land reclamation or the development of harbours and coastal defense structures. Their peculiar life history characteristics have intrigued researchers for decades. Also, their easy accessibility in coastal waters make them particularly suitable for ecological research.

 

 

The tri-annual Symposia offer a platform to all scientist to share an interest in flatfish biology and ecology, or in the variety of applied research questions in which flatfish play a role. The 8th Symposium will be focused on "Connectivity” and comprise of the following theme sessions: