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Sacramento Luncheon Briefings

Does Marine Biodiversity Matter to Californians?

February 26, 2007

Featuring Dr. John J. Stachowicz, an Assistant Professor in the Evolution and Ecology Department at the University of California, Davis, and Dr. Stephen R. Palumbi, a Professor in Biological Sciences at Stanford University's Hopkins Marine Station. This luncheon was moderated by Dr. Amber Mace, Executive Director of the California Ocean Science Trust and Science Advisor to the Ocean Protection Council.

Background Information

A recent study published in the journal Science showed the incremental loss of biodiversity is profoundly reducing the ocean's ability to produce seafood, resist diseases, filter pollutants, and rebound from stresses such as over fishing and climate change.

While most people can easily relate to the concern for seafood, many other impacts of biodiversity also affect our lives. Human health risks emerge as depleted coastal ecosystems become vulnerable to invasive species, disease outbreaks and noxious algal blooms. As coastal ecosystems improve, these risks decrease. The good news is that the data show that ocean ecosystems still hold great ability to rebound.

Luncheon Agenda

Speaker Bios

Presentations

"Why Does Marine Biodiversity Matter to Californians?" (Stachowicz)

Presentation

"Why high marine diversity increases ecosystem productivity, resilience and insurance" (Palumbi)

Presentation

References

Reference List

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