On behalf of the organizing committee, it is my great honor and heartfelt pleasure to welcome you to the Species on the Move 2026 Conference, marking the 10th anniversary of this distinguished international forum.
Since its inception, Species on the Move has grown into a premier global platform where scientists, policymakers, and practitioners gather every three years to explore how species and ecosystems are responding to the accelerating pace of climate change. This conference embraces not only ecological and biological responses, but also the broader themes of conservation management, policy development, and social adaptation. It is also a space that values and highlights the essential roles of indigenous knowledge and cultural perspectives in understanding and responding to environmental change.
In 2026, we are especially excited to bring SOTM to Asia for the very first time, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the vibrant research communities across the Asia-Pacific region. As Conference Chair, it is my sincere pleasure to welcome each of you to Taiwan.
Taiwan stands at the intersection of the largest landmass, the Eurasian continent, and the vast Pacific Ocean. It marks the northern boundary of the Great Coral Triangle and the southern limit of many glacial relict species. Along its coasts, coral reefs and seagrass meadows thrive with extraordinary biodiversity, while inland lie giant forests boasting the tallest tree growth in East Asia. The island’s dramatic topography features more than 100 mountains soaring above 3,000 meters, their slopes covered by cloud forests and shaped by glacial legacies, reflecting the deep and dynamic history of climatic and ecological processes.
Taiwan is also a testament to resilience. Shaped by frequent typhoons and earthquakes, it now experiences higher-than-average rates of global warming, offering a living laboratory for studying the impacts of climate change on both natural and human systems.
We are confident that SOTM 2026 will provide rich academic exchanges, meaningful interdisciplinary dialogue, and the opportunity to forge new collaborations. Beyond the conference sessions, we invite you to experience the beauty of Taiwan’s landscapes, the richness of its cultures, and the warmth of its people during the vibrant and refreshing spring season.
Welcome to Species on the Move 2026. Welcome to Taiwan. We look forward to meeting you and sharing this special occasion together.
I-Ching Chen
Chair, Species on the Move 2026 Conference (SOTM 2026)
Professor, Department of Life Sciences, National Cheng Kung University