GEOHAB is an international association of marine scientists studying and mapping geophysical, biophysical, and geomorphic indicators of benthic communities, species diversity, and distribution. It is currently in its 25th year of existence. It provides a unique multidisciplinary forum for the exchange of knowledge and ideas that underpin sustainable ocean management. Students are encouraged to attend, and grants are available.
The GEOHAB 2025 annual conference was held in Key West, Florida and hosted at the wonderful 19th century San Carlos Institute in the old town from 12th to 16th May.
It brought together over 150 biologists, geologists, environmental scientists, spatial analysts, technologists, geophysicists, and environmental advisors from around the world. Several impressive key notes were delivered including emerging NASA observational technologies (Prof. Ved Chirayath) and a live stream with an ongoing Ocean Exploration Trust survey in the Pacific.
Members from the EMODnet Seabed Habitats consortium were in attendance to present a poster outlining the Coastal Wetlands data set, and a talk which addressed the challenges of development of EUSeaMap in the Caribbean Region.
The EMODnet Seabed Habitats approach to data discovery and engagement hopes to promote opportunities for development of new composite products and enhanced visibility of outputs in the Caribbean. Through delivery of workshops and development of the regional network, it is hoped that identification and ingestion of data will lead to increased relevance and resolution of EUSeaMap there. This will facilitate policy makers and researchers and can be used to inform effect monitoring of climate change on the ecosystem and biodiversity of the Caribbean Region and associated SIDS.