ROOTED IN THE FUTURE: AN ECR PERSPECTIVE OF AQUATIC PLANT RESEARCH

Aquatic ecosystems face complex and interconnected challenges — from climate change and unprecedented biodiversity loss to pressing management questions. Now, more than ever, we must take a diversified approach and incorporate fresh perspectives to tackle these challenges. Fresh perspectives can emerge from the development of new technologies and methods, interdisciplinary approaches, and growing computational power, while remaining deeply rooted in overarching ecological principles, rigorous science, and the historical development of the field. Here, we explore how early career researchers (ECRs) in the aquatic plant community see the future of macrophyte research. Based on a recent survey of 147 ECRs, the discussion highlights the priority areas where the field can expand, innovate, and respond to global ecological demands. We present potential theoretical, technological, and methodological advances, weaving in our own perspectives. Finally, we discuss the challenges that ECRs face in research, as well as the importance and opportunities for developing professional and social networks that facilitate engagement, information exchange, knowledge generation, and foster lasting collaborations to advance aquatic plant science. Through this talk, we reflect on how ECRs are building a macrophyte science that critically engages with the past, while extending its roots into the future. Strategic collaboration with, and among, the next generation will be key to effectively addressing environmental challenges.

Presentation Preference: Standard Oral (12 Minutes)

Primary Presenter: Antonella Petruzzella, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) (antonellabio@gmail.com)

Authors:

Lindsay Trottier, McGill University / Quebec Centre for Biodiversity Science  (lindsay.trottier@mail.mcgill.ca)

Michał Brzozowski, Poznań University of Life Sciences  (michal.brzozowski@up.poznan.pl)

Anne Lewerentz, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)  (anne.lewerentz@kit.edu)