Stellenbosch University
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Stellenbosch Forum Lecture: Coastal ecology and conservation: merging science and traditional knowledge
Start: 11/11/2021, 13:00
End: 11/11/2021, 14:00
Contact:Whitney Prins -
Location: MS Teams

​​Thursday, 11 November 2021 

13:00 - 14:00

Register: https://bit.ly/3jINg0o

Enquiries: drdcomm@sun.ac.za

An MS Teams link will be sent to all participants via e-mail.

 

Coastal ecology and conservation: merging science and traditional knowledge in Inhambane Bay, Mozambique

Mangroves occur in tropical and subtropical coastal areas around the globe where they serve several ecosystem functions. In South Africa and Mozambique, mangroves face several challenges. In South Africa, mangroves are well-studied and occur largely in government-mandated protected areas. In Mozambique, very little is known about mangrove habitats and protection is largely community-based. Although conservation measures are in place and monitoring is rigorous, the effectiveness of these zones has not yet been studied. Using scientific methods and traditional knowledge, we examined the biodiversity of mangroves in South Africa and Mozambique, and attemoted to examine the effects of community-based no-take zones and human influence on mangrove ecosystems and diversity. The Inhambane Bay Mangrove Study provides a unique opportunity to understand: 1) what makes a community-supported conservation initiative successful; 2) how this system works with little to no conflict between stakeholders each with a unique understanding and set of knowledge; and 3) how to involve communities in scientific study of their environment. Using multiple approaches, we reveal not just the biology and ecology of the Inhambane Bay mangroves, but also the stories of the communities that have protected this habitat for centuries and the lessons we have learnt from them. We also discuss the importance of working together respectfully and incorporating indigenous knowledge into scientific studies and resource management.

 

Dr Nasreen Peer

Dr Nasreen Peer holds a BSc (Hons) in Marine Biology from UKZN, and a PhD in Zoology from NMU. She specialises in the diversity and ecology of aquatic invertebrates in a wide range of coastal and freshwater habitats, particularly in estuaries, rocky shores and mangroves. She is currently a lecturer at Stellenbosch University and the co-founder of Argonaut Science (Pty) Ltd. Her current research interest involves understanding community-based conservation in Mozambique and South Africa, a project that involves collaboration between community members and researchers. Nasreen's interest in science communication and knowledge exchange is growing as she tries to incorporate citizens, indigenous communities and other researchers into each of her research projects. She believes that each person has something unique to offer about their environment and encourages every person to learn and research beyond just what is expected.