ChonCon, The First Chondria Conference

Alien invasive species (AIS) pose a serious threat to Papahānaumokuākea. Without native predators keeping their population size in check, AIS can grow rapidly and outcompete other organisms. This disruptive unbalance in the ecosystem can lead to dramatic changes, something seen at Manawai (Pearl and Hermes Atoll), where thick blankets of Chondria tumulosa have grown over and smothered reefs. The remoteness of Papahānaumokuākea is part of what makes it special, but it also makes conducting research there challenging.

Chondria tumulosa was first discovered in 2016. Since then, there have been ~47 days in the monument available for hands-on work with C. tumulosa. This May, Chondria researchers and managers gathered for the first Chondria-focused Conference, “ChonCon”.

The 76 participants (representing 17 different organizations) learned the most up-to-date information on how C. tumulosa grows, reproduces, and impacts the reef habitat under it, and the reef fish around it. Experts in the field discussed different methods to avoid transporting C. tumulosa to new places, challenges linked to managing marine debris, and cutting-edge early detection methods.

In addition to 20 different talks, ChonCon included hands-on training with previously frozen C. tumulosa – the first time many managers and scientists have seen C. tumulosa in person. The day ended with a discussion panel geared to link the science with manager needs, and to identify key knowledge gaps for advancing AIS management strategies.

View the 2024 ChonCon Research Symposium: Book of Abstracts.