UIS Commission on Karst Hydrogeology and Speleogenesis

This presentation will discuss our current findings, interpretations, and future directions for cave research and conservation on “Te Pito o Te Henua” (or Navel of the World).

Our efforts represent the first study to investigate both the biology and archaeology of Rapanui caves.
The natural and cultural history of caves has received little attention on Easter Island (known to Polynesians as “Rapa Nui”).  Given the long history of forest conversion and other intensive human uses, the current landscape is vastly different from what the first Polynesian settlers observed upon arrival circa 1200 CE. 

Today, less than four percent of the over 400 known arthropod species are either endemic or colonized the island without man’s assistance; however, our recent discoveries of several new arthropod species suggest some of these organisms may be relicts of ancient native ecosystems.  Although early explorers and missionaries encouraged the Rapanui people to search for and remove artifacts from their caves (many are curated in Museo Antropológico Padre Sebastián Englert), vestiges of extensive human use prior to European contact remain. Our efforts represent the first study to investigate both the biology and archaeology of Rapanui caves.

Space is limited.  Reserve your Webinar seat now at:
https://www4.gotomeeting.com/register/353722487

Title:
The Mysteries of Easter Island Caves
Date:
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Time:
8:00 PM - 9:30 PM CST (Which is 9PM EST/ 7PM MST/ 6PM PST) Please check your time zone

After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the Webinar.

System Requirements
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Required: Windows® 7, Vista, XP or 2003 Server

Mac®-based attendees
Required: Mac OS® X 10.5 or newer

Mobile attendees
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