Summary, Deep-sea corals workshop

This document summarizes the proceedings of the Deep-Sea Corals Workshop held in Galway, Ireland on January 16-17, 2003. The workshop was hosted by the Irish Marine Institute (MI) and organized by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). A group of deep-sea coral researchers met in Galway to discuss the need for an International Deep-Sea Corals Action Plan, identify critical information needs to increase our understanding of these unique and fragile habitats, and identify collaborative efforts to help meet those critical needs. Representatives from eight countries including Belgium, Canada, Germany, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States met discuss and formulate an International Deep-sea Coral Action Plan. Each of these countries has a vested interest in deep-sea coral research and management.