Welcome Message

Welcome Message from the Conference Chair

Welcome Message from the Conference Chair

On behalf of the organizing committee, it is my great honor to welcome you to the Species on the Move 2026 Conference in Taiwan, which marks the 10th anniversary of this distinguished international forum.

From its beginnings in Tasmania in 2016, followed by South Africa in 2019 and Florida in 2023, we are excited to bring SOTM to Asia for the very first time. Building on the success of past conferences, we look forward to welcoming 150–200 participants from more than 20 countries.

This year, we unite multifaceted research under seven major themes, with a strengthened focus on temporal dynamics and ecosystem transitions. We will also emphasize cross-theme connections to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and new insights.

Taiwan hosts diverse ecosystems, from vibrant coral reefs to mountain landscapes. This resilient island, shaped by natural forces and now experiencing rapid warming, provides a compelling setting to explore ecosystem responses. Participants will also have the opportunity to experience Taiwan’s unique tropical montane cloud forests and learn how indigenous knowledge contributes to local climate adaptation.

We look forward to sharing knowledge and building lasting connections that extend far beyond our time together.

I-Ching Chen
Chair, Species on the Move 2026 Conference (SOTM 2026)
Professor, Department of Life Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan