The first day of the workshop has been truly inspiring. The workshop has brought together researchers from France, Belgium, the USA, Canada, the UK, and Spain to share knowledge and ideas. We had a series of engaging presentations highlighting recent advances and ongoing challenges about ciliate research. These fascinating marine protists play a key role in the marine food web and has potential as (palaeo)environmental indicators. A central topic of discussion was the urgent need to develop a new taxonomy for ciliate cysts and loricae—structures that remain poorly understood yet have preservation potential in the geological record. We will analyse their morphology in depth and explore their utility as (palaeo)environmental indicators.
Beyond the formal sessions, the coffee breaks and shared meals provided valuable networking opportunities, fostering both new collaborations and strengthening existing ones.
The setting couldn’t be more perfect: the IFREMER Marine Station in Concarneau (France), with stunning sea views and sunny weather, offered an exceptional atmosphere for scientific exchange.
Looking forward to the next few days!