We are planning a new symposium focusing on the ecology, conservation, and management of Holostean Fishes (Gars and Bowfin) for the 2016 American Fisheries Society conference in Kansas City, Missouri! Please share with those who may be interested, and see contact info below if you have questions/comments. More information coming soon!
Angling for Dinosaurs: Status and Future Study of the Ecology, Conservation and Management of Ancient Fishes
A special symposium is planned for the 146th annual meeting of the American Fisheries Society in Kansas City, Missouri in August 2016. This symposium will focus on the biology, ecology, life history, conservation and management of Holostean Fishes (Bowfin and gar species). As anglers’ perceptions of these ancient fishes begin to transform from “rough fish” to “sport fish,” the need for a better understanding of the ecology and conservation status of these species is fundamental to effective management. We intend to highlight past and current research by including presentations related to:
- Biology/ecology/life history
- Age and growth evaluations
- Population genetics & evolutionary perspectives
- Sampling methodologies
- Management evaluations
- Hybridization
- Human dimensions
If you manage or are conducting research related to Holostean fisheries, please consider participating in this special symposium. The organizers are planning some type of proceedings or special journal issue where presenters can publish their work if they wish, but the final decision will be based on input from participants. If you have information you’d like to share that would advance our understanding of Ancient Fishes, please contact the organizers for more information.
The organizers are also seeking potential sponsors for this event. If you or your organization is interested in sponsoring the symposium, please contact the organizers.
Organizers:
Dr. Solomon R. David1,3, Sarah Huck2,4, Dr. Jeffrey A. Stein2,4
1Shedd Aquarium
2Illinois Natural History Survey
3U.S. Geological Survey Great Lakes Science Center
4University of Illinois
PDF of announcement: AFS 2016 – Gar Bowfin Symposium Announcement FINAL
Follow @PrimitiveFishes & @SFEL_Stein for more updates and information!
PRIMITIVE FISHES 
This sounds like a lot of fun. I attended one similar to this on catfishes a couple years ago at the SDAFS meeting, and it was fascinating. I wish I was able to attend!
So cool, love the pic.