Archipelagos’ field courses have been devised with the aim of providing an opportunity for participants to acquire practical hand-on experience and knowledge from, the on-going conservation work carried out by Archipelagos Institute - on the front line of conservation and research in Greece for over a decade.
The focus of Archipelagos’ research and conservation work has always been on the protection of ecosystems as a whole, rather than of particular isolated species; successful conservation schemes require an understanding of the interaction and interdependence of species as well as cooperation with local communities.
All the courses provide an integrated approach, combining practical field work in habitats of special conservational value in the region of the eastern Aegean, with theory and lectures aiming to increase students’ understanding of taught subjects. Whether surveying dolphins or filming birds of prey, participants will be made aware of the holistic nature of both Archipelagos’ conservation work and the educational work carried out on the courses.
On completion of the field course, each participant will receive a certificate of acknowledgement for their participation, describing the fields in which they have been trained.
Refund Policy: A 20% deposit is required at the time of booking. If the placement is cancelled more than two months prior to the start of the course the entire amount will be refunded in full. Cancellation more than twenty days prior to the start of the course but less than two months will result in only the deposit being non-refundable. The cost of the placement is non-refundable if the placement is cancelled less than twenty days prior to the start of the course.
Please be aware that dates may change and the minimum number of participants is 6.
1. Applied Marine Research & Conservation: Marine Mammals, Fisheries & Littoral Ecosystems
Introduction to the course:
This course provides a unique learning experience to participants, combining an interdisciplinary approach to applied marine research and its application to the management and conservation of marine habitats. This 10 day course offers both classroom and practical sessions at various marine sites and habitats, both in the littoral zone as well as in the open sea. The classroom sessions will provide an excellent background knowledge of the marine species found within the Aegean Sea, the techniques utilised for their study, as well as issues relating to their conservation and management.
Practical sessions will involve marine mammal surveys and monitoring of seagrass beds with camera census on board the Archipelagos research boat. It will also include fisheries surveys as well as snorkelling surveys for the assessment of biodiversity, using underwater visual census techniques. The variety of subjects approached on this course offers a holistic view of applied marine research. It will provide participants with the tools and practical experience needed for the greater understanding of marine ecosystems and their conservation, which can only be achieved through the close collaboration with the local communities.
Introduction to the site:
The course will take place in the region of the eastern Aegean Sea, based on the island of Samos and the nearby islands. This area is one of the most important biodiverstiy hot-spots in the Mediterreanean region, supporting important populations of endangered marine species and habitats. Several species of marine mammals are found in the area, including the Striped, Bottlenose, Risso's and the, now rare, Common dolphin, the Sperm whale, Cuvier's beaked whale and the highly endangered Mediterranean monk seal. A diverse range of important marine habitats can also be observed and studied, from Posidonia seagrass beds to coralligene reefs.
These species and habitats are, however, being impacted by a number of anthropogenic factors, including decline of fishstocks, pollution of the seas as well as the noise pollution caused by boat activity. The research carried out by Archipelagos Institute aims to provide data on the status of these ecosystems, as well as the extent of anthropogenic impacts in order to develop and apply sustainable conservation schemes. Based on the data collected, Archipelagos provides the local communities and authorities with management measures and schemes, aiming to ensure the sustainability of the seas, in balance with the needs of the local communities.
Aim:
The aim of this course is to provide an introduction to applied marine research, marine ecology and conservation in the Mediterranean. This course will not only provide an excellent hands-on experience, but also a good background knowledge to anybody who wishes to develop their understanding of Mediterranean marine ecosystems and their protection. Participants will also gain first-hand experience in the ongoing field studies and conservation work of the Archipelagos Institute.
Topics covered include:
- Marine Mammal Biology & Conservation:
Introduction to the biology, ecology and conservation status of the marine mammals of the eastern Mediterranean, focusing on the 4 dolphin and 2 whale species which are regularly recorded in the Aegean Sea, as well as the highly endangered Mediterranean monk seal. The methods of study for these species will be taught, including visual surveying to assess marine mammal abundance, passive acoustic monitoring, behavioural studies and photo-identification of cetaceans. These will be put into practice on boat-based surveys (weather permitting). Marine mammal and turtle first aid will also be covered in these sessions.
- Fisheries: Practices, Ecology & Management:
Lectures will cover the types of fisheries practices in the Aegean and Mediterranean sea, as well as methods of assessment of productivity, Catch per Unit Effort (CPUE), Maximun Sustainable Yield (MSY) and Total Allowable Catch (TAC). The socio-economical importance of fisheries for island communities, the ecology of targeted fish stocks and the impact of fisheries on marine ecosystems are also explored. Methods, control, monitoring and management of fishing activities are discussed, focusing on how to raise an active long-term participation of the local communities in the management process. Greek and EU legislation will also be covered, focusing on the ongoing process of methods of resolving discrepancies in national legislations, as well as on the ongoing process for the reform of the EU Common Fisheries Policy.
- Littoral Ecosystems, Ecology & Conservation:
This topic provides an introduction to the ecology and conservation of the Mediterranean littoral ecosystems, as well as an introduction to the underwater visual-census (UVC) techniques and data collection methods. The combination of classroom and snorkelling sessions will provide a great learning experience. Species assessment techniques, including the underwater identification of fish, invertebrate and algae species will be covered.
- Monitoring of Posidonia seagrass beds using underwater imaging:
Lectures will be given on the ecological significance and factors threatening Posidonia seagrass meadows. Seagrass beds will be mapped using a digital cartographic camera system. Their biodiversity and health will also be assessed as well as the epiphyte cover, water quality and the extent of impact caused by antrhoropogenic activities. GIS maps of seagrass bed areas will be produced, and their usage in conservation management planning will be discussed.
- Integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) and conservation management planning (CMP):
Lectures will be given on environmental conservation and coastal zone management of the Mediterranean with a focus on the eastern Aegean islands. These sessions will focus on the current state of CMP in Greece and Europe. The involvement of the local communities in coastal zone management will also be discussed. The interpretation and promotion of sustainable use of the coastal zone will be explored through a series of visits to sites of variable environmental and anthropogenic characteristics, providing a holistic approach to coastal management.
Extra three-day option
During the extra three day option, the participants can select from a wide range of activities such as, guided tours exploring Samos island (archaeological sites and traditional villages), participating in zoological surveys (assessing populations of priority species such as jackals and chameleons), attending dedicated sessions with Archipelagos researchers, on topics of their special interest.
back to top
.jpg)
2. Underwater Photography & Scientific Illustration
Introduction to the course:
This field course offers the opportunity to explore the fascinating underwater life of the Aegean Sea and discover the links between science and art. Participants will learn the fundamentals of both scientific illustration and underwater photography through applied practical workshops and fieldwork.
Participants spend time developing their underwater photography skills in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean. The local area offers a variety of marine habitats, which are home to an abundance of bizarre and wonderful marine organisms.
The photographs are then utilised to create a piece of artwork that reflects the diversity and beauty of the underwater world.
Introduction to the site:
The courses take place in the area of the eastern Aegean Sea on the islands of Samos and/or Ikaria. This area supports a high diversity of marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
During the course, participants will explore the littoral marine ecosystems of the area, which support an immense diversity of marine organisms, some unique to the region, resulting in an area of great scientific importance. Posidonia seagrass beds will be explored as well as rocky algal reefs. The diversity of habitats in the region provide excellent opportunities for different kinds of photography, including landscapes, macro shots, action, documenting behaviour and species interaction
A number of the nearby snorkelling sites will be visited during the field course to provide students with experience of the diversity of the local environment.
Aims:
Tuition is given throughout the course in techniques of snorkelling, photography, painting and observational drawing, while allowing participants freedom to explore the subject in an individual and creative way. Guidance is also given for those wishing to produce a traditional and correct scientific illustration.
This course offers a combination of skill acquisition and the subsequent practical application of these skills
Topics covered:
The 7 days of the course will include some theory work, some time underwater and some practical illustration work.
- Introduction to Scientific Illustration:
Processes and applications: Lectures will introduce methods of illustration and the practical uses of professional standard scientific illustration.
The most common species of Invertebrates, Algae and Fish will be introduced. Distinguishing features of organisms will be taught to enable identification in the field. Lectures and discussions will lead to an understanding of biology, ecology and adaptations to the environment of commonly found species.
- Basic Introduction to Environmental Problems and Impacts:
Lectures and discussions will provide a comprehensive overview of the threats posed to the environment of the Aegean Sea. The work of Archipelagos in overcoming these threats will be introduced.
Students will have the opportunity to learn procedure for cetacean surveying and recording methods. Cameras will be used to record any sightings.
Methods for identifying and surveying cetacean species will be covered prior to going out on the boat, looking at dorsal fin shape and position, fluking habits, breaching and tail fin shape. The introduction of this topic is dependant upon the weather.
- Introduction to Underwater Photography:
Equipment and methods: Practical workshop with cameras (in studio) will familiarise participants with equipment. Discussion of requirements for successful photography including composition, light and subject matter. Evaluation of photographs in seminars will enable participants to be self-critical and to identify components of a good photograph in their own pictures.
- Snorkelling practices and excursions:
Safety procedures will be covered. Practical tuition on snorkelling with cameras will be given.
- Observational drawing workshop:
Drawing from life with the focus on creating form with light and shade. Drawing in the field will familiarise participants with challenges posed in drawing from live subjects and will emphasise importance of speed and accuracy in sketching.
Discussion on use of colour and practical work - observational drawing with focus on creating form with colour.
- Production of illustration:
Line drawing and colour illustration. Composition design with group evaluation.
Exploration of building up layers of a painting with one to one tuition and group evaluation at each stage.
Using Adobe Photoshop to complete illustration and prepare it for practical uses. Includes eliminating any imperfections and separating image from background, experimenting with different functions of Photoshop, adjusting, for example, colour balance, shape and composition of image.
back to top
3. Forest Management & Conservation
Introduction to the course:
This course will give an insight to applied research aspects of forest ecosystems such as classification, physiology, morphology, dendrochronology, dendroclimatology, soil and water assessments, biodiversity surveys and forest conservation.
The course will focus on the amazing landscape of Ranti Forest, giving spectacular views over Ikaria Island and will be hosted by Dr. Halil Çakan,associate Professor of University of Çukurova, Turkey.
Introduction to the site:
The field course will take place within 1600ha of dense Quercus ilex (Holm Oak) woodland, ‘Ranti Forest’. The forest is situated in central Ikaria and covers approximately 30% of the whole forest area found on the island. The main vegetation is Q. ilex woodland, however other habitat types include heath, scree slopes and Platanus orientalis stands (oriental plane). This habitat diversity is due to the range of 200 – 900m in altitude of the forest area, which provides an important array of habitat types for both flora and fauna species.
Q. ilex habitats used to be one of the most dominant forest habitats in the Aegean islands. Today, Ranti forest is the only one that currently remains in its traditional natural forest form, in the region of the Aegean. Ranti Forest is now the only remaining part of this once extensive woodland and still supports a large number of old trees, several of which exceed 500 years in age.
As it is the largest un-fragmented area of Q. ilex forests in Greece, it is a fundamental ecological niche for many rare and endemic species of flora and fauna. Being the last remaining forest, of this size and age, within the North Eastern Mediterranean, as well as being rarely found forming forests in the Mediterranean region, Ranti Forest has a great significance at an EU level. Therefore research and conservation efforts carried out by the Archipelagos Institute research group is vital for the continued protection of this habitat and thus the flora and fauna that inhabit the forest.
Along the east and north boundaries of the forest there are small villages with agricultural holdings. Over the years these villages have had a negative impact on the forest and its natural regeneration by encroachment and overgrazing. Goat farming is part of the Ikarian culture, however due to un-monitored EU funding, the traditional shepherding methods are seldom practiced and so goats are left to illegally graze the forest. The forest is also occasionally used for charcoal production and as a source of timber and resultantly these anthropogenic impacts have created differing age stands within the forest.
Aims:
This field course aims to provide specialisation in dendrological methods, focusing in particular on Mediterranean terrestrial ecosystems and their characteristic tree-species, achieving an integrated approach to the understanding of natural ecosystems and their conservation.
It will provide participants with knowledge of a variety of techniques, enabling them to carry out forest surveying individually. These methods will focus on both biotic and abiotic elements giving a comprehensive insight to forest surveying and management.
Topics covered:
- Tree and ground flora classification:
Identification: Part of the course will be targeted towards identifying the species of trees by their bark, leaves and morphology of the tree crown, as well as identifying ground flora found within Ranti Forests’ ecosystem. Methods of species identification will be taught through demonstrations by the course leader, who is practiced in identifying the species encountered. Dichotomous keys will also be used along with defining characteristics of that species.
Taxonomy: A taxonomical hierarchy will be used in tree and other flora identification in order to help familiarise participants with the original binomial system of nomenclature set out by Linnaeus.
Participants will have a general view on the range of the subjects that dendrology covers and its importance in the protection of terrestrial ecosystems.
Wood core samples: The technique for collecting the wood core samples by increment borer will be introduced, as well as the preparation for counting the annual rings. In this way, well preserved samples will be used for the estimation of the age of the tree and climatic changes, as well as for the determination of natural hazards that have occurred in the past.
Dendrochronology: Dendrochronological applications such as cross-dating and skeleton techniques will be utilised. Cross-dating is a technique that ensures each individual tree ring is assigned its exact year of formation. This is accomplished by matching patterns of wide and narrow rings between cores from the same tree, and between trees from different locations.
Participants will be trained in estimating the tree’s age and be introduced to other techniques of determining the tree’s age, like the diameter at breast height (DBH).
Dendroclimatology: Participants will learn how to estimate climatic changes and the appearance of natural hazards in the past, from annual tree rings. They will also be acquainted with examples of international databases, which gather information about climate change and natural threats and the importance of these in the prediction of future change.
Signs of fauna, such as faeces and footprints, will be surveyed along a transect, in order to assess presence and diversity of species. When necessary samples will undergo further analysis in the lab.
Pit fall traps will be set out in order to assess the invertebrate community found in the forest. Samples will later be identified in the lab.
Soil samples will be taken and analysed in various locations of the forest in order to compare soil types across the area. This will include soil sampling, as well as analysis in the lab of pH and nutrient content.
At freshwater sites, water samples will be taken at different levels. Chemical and microbiological analysis will then be conducted in the lab.
back to top
4. Wildlife Filmmaking
Introduction to the course:
This course will give an introduction to wildlife film production. The participants will be split into teams to produce a short wildlife film. Each participant will learn every skill a budding wildlife filmmaker may need: development of ideas, directing a shoot, camera operating, sound recording, editing and screenwriting. These, in combination with familiarising participants with the techniques and the patience required for successful wildlife filming, will provide a greater understanding and appreciation of the natural world. The course is set on Samos and/or Ikaria, two idyllic islands in the Eastern Aegean Sea and will be hosted by award-winning filmmaker Sam Rogers.
Introduction to the site:
The islands of Samos and Ikaria offer a unique opportunity to enter uncharted filmmaking territory. The Aegean Sea is one of the most important marine ecosystems on the planet, and these islands are brimming with stunning locations including ancient forests, dramatic coastlines and unspoilt wildernesses.
Archipelagos will bring the filmmakers face-to-face with the incredible animals that call these islands home. There are numerous stories waiting to be told, for example, about Eleonora Falcons, the world’s second rarest falcon species, which live in the unpopulated islets in the Aegean. Whether it’s the hundred-strong breeding colonies, or the young falcons in their nests, these birds never fail to give filmmakers a chance to capture incredible behaviour on camera. There are also various species of buzzards and many protected bird species that use these islands as a stopover on their migration routes.
The filmmakers could take part and film, marine mammal research surveys. There are 4 species of dolphin in the region, some are well-established with resident pods. It is possible to track these animals using state-of-the-art equipment and observe them bowriding and feeding. Filmmakers may even be lucky enough to observe adult dolphins training their youngsters. A little known fact about this unique stretch of the Aegean is the presence of the mighty Sperm Whale. The sea between Ikaria, Samos, Chios and Turkey is an important migratory route for this animal – participants could explore the behaviour and biology of this little studied population.
The team could also head inland in search of the rare chameleon found on Samos, or the Rough-Tailed Agama endemic on both islands. Participants might also want to delve into the environmental issues that are pushing this spectacular wildlife closer to extinction. Such issues could be presented through the views and experiences of local communities.
Aims:
This course will provide participants with an action packed introduction to wildlife filmmaking. They’ll learn the creative and practical skills necessary to produce their own wildlife films. Participants will become familiar with industry standard camera equipment and editing programmes, whilst generating their own ideas and learning the essential elements of storytelling.
Topics covered:
One of the most important areas of wildlife filmmaking is coming up with fresh ideas, or a new perspective on age-old stories. To get a clear idea about what stories have been told and how contemporary wildlife filmmakers are telling classic stories with a new perspective, the group will watch and discuss timeless natural history documentaries and recent wildlife films. Each wildlife filmmaker must find the perfect subjects in their environment, so the team at Archipelagos will brief the group on where to find the best stories in and around the beautiful islands of Ikaria and Samos. The participants will be split into small teams and will develop a number of ideas to be pitched to the whole group. The 3 best ideas will be produced as 5-minute films.
Although with nature documentaries it is impossible to know exactly what footage one will manage to get before going out on the shoot, due to the fact that animals don’t take direction, it is important to have an idea of the direction of the story and consequently what footage will be required. For each 5-minute film a shot-list will be produced. From this shot list the rough script for the film will be written, this will later be perfected during the edit and will finally be recorded as voice over, which will help tell the story clearly and succinctly.
Each team will be provided with a broadcast-quality camera and sound kit. Every member of the crew will be taught how to operate this equipment, providing them with the tools they need to tell their stories. Recording clean usable sound is one of the most important aspects of a film shoot – full training will be given on broadcast quality sound recording equipment. When it comes to camerawork, the filmmakers need to understand how to film a sequence and to ensure they will have the footage to tell their story in the edit. On location each filmmaker will be given the opportunity to operate the camera, record sound and direct the shoot. In some films it may be essential to record interviews with experts or some members of the Archipelagos team, the filmmakers will be taught how to film and conduct interviews. Archipelagos will be on hand to provide any assistance required.
Once the participants have filmed their stories it’s time to get to the edit suite. The filmmakers will be using Final Cut Pro, an industry-standard editing computer package. They will be shown how to operate Final Cut Pro and will learn how to edit their story with power and economy. It is now that the filmmakers will hone their scripts that will support their pictures and help tell a clear story. They will be provided with a catalogue of library music for use in their finished films. During the editing process there will be a number of viewings; this is when the crews show each other their films and learn how to take constructive criticism. The 10-day course will culminate with a celebratory screening and meal in a local Greek Taverna.
back to top
5. Law & Policy for Environmental Conservation
Introduction to the course:
This course provides a unique learning experience for those wishing to understand the laws and policies that regulate and influence how environmental conservation efforts are carried out. We will look at international, EU, and state environmental laws and legislation to consider how legal regimes work together, or conflict. We will also look at examples of ‘best practices’ in other countries to address questions such as: how can law be used to protect natural resources and biodiversity? How effective is law, if marine resources continue to be depleted? Are the problems not with the laws themselves but with enforcement? How should we think about engaging in policy actions?
This course will be topics based and focus on marine conservation and pollution prevention, maritime safety law, fisheries laws, protection of endangered species, forests and overgrazing, hybrid and genetically modified seeds, water and air pollution, offshore oil drilling and alternative energy issues. This course is not meant to be a general environmental law class, but rather to get students thinking creatively about how to engage the law and use policy solutions to help solve real environmental problems, while expanding the way students think about their own conservation efforts.
Introduction to the site:
Taking place on the Greek islands, this course will utilize its unique location and link classroom study with interactive participation. Students will make direct observations about conservation methods and consider challenges such as how to present environmental data in legal and policy actions. Activities such as snorkeling and whale watching, surveying endangered species populations and helping to monitor fish catches are examples of possible activities. Students will also participate in a case study, to be chosen from the following topics: 1) oil drilling in the Aegean Sea, 2) establishing a marine protected area, or 3) creating an offshore wind farm. A policy writing exercise may also be included.
Aims:
The aim of this course is to provide an introduction to the complex web of international laws and policies regulating and influencing environmental conservation actions, while getting students to think critically about what they mean and where they can be effective or frustrating to environmental conservation efforts. A combination of lectures, active projects (e.g. case studies, best practices) and hands-on experience will provide students with a unique insight into how to think more creatively about utilizing the law and making policy recommendations to better manage environmental resources both on the national and local levels. The course provides good background knowledge to anybody who wishes to understand international environmental law and how policy could be an effective tool in reaching environmental conservation goals.
Topics covered:
- Using the Law and Policy for Environmental Conservation:
This course focuses on how law and policy is used to approach environmental conservation issues. A number of topics will be taught to give a practical understanding of the complex web of international environmental laws, conventions and regulations pertaining to environmental conservation. Through case studies and “best practices,” students will learn to examine laws and policies from both critical and practical perspectives.
back to top
6. Applied Marine Research & Conservation - An interdiciplinary approach of scientific research, law & policy
Introduction to the course:
This course provides a unique learning experience to participants, combining an interdisciplinary approach to applied marine research and its application to the management and conservation of marine habitats, along with an understanding of the laws and policies that regulate and influence how environmental conservation efforts are carried out. A combination of boat expeditions, classroom and practical sessions at marine sites and habitats will help introduce participants to unique biodiversity and pressing conservation issues affecting the Greek seas and islands.
Introduction to the site:
The eastern Aegean Sea is one of the most important biodiverstiy hot-spots in the Mediterreanean region, supporting important populations of endangered marine species and habitats, which are being impacted by a number of anthropogenic factors.
Aim:
The aim of this course is to provide an introduction to applied marine research, marine ecology and conservation in the Mediterranean. It also aims to provide an introduction to the complex web of international laws and policies regulating and influencing environmental conservation actions, while getting participants to think critically about what they mean and where they can be effective or frustrating to environmental conservation efforts.
Topics covered include:
For each topic Archipealgos will lead the field course team in learning about background theory and practical fieldwork, while also focusing on how law and policy is used to approach environmental conservation issues. Through case studies and “best practices,” students will learn to examine laws and policies from both critical and practical perspectives.
- Marine Mammal Biology & Conservation:
Introduction to the biology, ecology and conservation status of the marine mammals of the eastern Mediterranean, focusing on the 4 dolphin and 2 whale species which are regularly recorded in the Aegean Sea, as well as the highly endangered Mediterranean monk seal. The methods of study for these species will be taught, including visual surveying to assess marine mammal abundance, passive acoustic monitoring, behavioural studies and photo-identification of cetaceans. These will be put into practice on boat-based surveys (weather permitting). Marine mammal and turtle first aid will also be covered in these sessions.
- Fisheries: Practices, Ecology & Management:
Lectures will cover the types of fisheries practices in the Aegean and Mediterranean sea, as well as methods of assessment of productivity, Catch per Unit Effort (CPUE), Maximun Sustainable Yield (MSY) and Total Allowable Catch (TAC). The socio-economical importance of fisheries for island communities, the ecology of targeted fish stocks and the impact of fisheries on marine ecosystems are also explored. Methods, control, monitoring and management of fishing activities are discussed, focusing on how to raise an active long-term participation of the local communities in the management process. Greek and EU legislation will also be covered, focusing on the ongoing process of methods of resolving discrepancies in national legislations, as well as on the ongoing process for the reform of the EU Common Fisheries Policy.
- Littoral Ecosystems, Ecology & Conservation:
This topic provides an introduction to the ecology and conservation of the Mediterranean littoral ecosystems, as well as an introduction to the underwater visual-census (UVC) techniques and data collection methods. The combination of classroom and snorkelling sessions will provide a great learning experience. Species assessment techniques, including the underwater identification of fish, invertebrate and algae species will be covered.
- Monitoring of Posidonia seagrass beds using underwater imaging:
Lectures will be given on the ecological significance and factors threatening Posidonia seagrass meadows. Seagrass beds will be mapped using a digital cartographic camera system. Their biodiversity and health will also be assessed as well as the epiphyte cover, water quality and the extent of impact caused by antrhoropogenic activities. GIS maps of seagrass bed areas will be produced, and their usage in conservation management planning will be discussed.
- Integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) and conservation management planning (CMP):
Lectures will be given on environmental conservation and coastal zone management of the Mediterranean with a focus on the eastern Aegean islands. These sessions will focus on the current state of CMP in Greece and Europe. The involvement of the local communities in coastal zone management will also be discussed. The interpretation and promotion of sustainable use of the coastal zone will be explored through a series of visits to sites of variable environmental and anthropogenic characteristics, providing a holistic approach to coastal management.
Extra three-day option
During the extra three day option, the participants can select from a wide range of activities such as, guided tours exploring Samos island (archaeological sites and traditional villages), participating in zoological surveys (assessing populations of priority species such as jackals and chameleons), attending dedicated sessions with Archipelagos researchers, on topics of their special interest.