International Coral Reef Society

The International Coral Reef Society (ICRS), originally called the International Society for Reef Studies, is a nonprofit scientific organization that works internationally to protect coral reefs by advancing research and understanding. It was established in 1980, with its main goal being to deepen scientific knowledge about both modern and fossil coral reefs.

To further its mission, the ICRS publishes the journal Coral Reefs and a newsletter called Reef Encounter. The society also organizes annual meetings and helps sponsor other events, such as symposia and conferences focused on coral reefs.

One of its key activities is coordinating the International Coral Reef Symposium (ICRS). The most recent symposium took place in 2022 in Bremen. Earlier symposia were held in Honolulu (2016); Cairns, Australia (2012); Fort Lauderdale, Florida (2008); Okinawa, Japan (2004); Bali, Indonesia (2000); Panama City, Panama (1996); Guam (1992); Townsville, Australia (1988); Tahiti, French Polynesia (1985); Manila, Philippines (1980); Miami (1977); aboard the M.V. Marco Polo in Australian waters (1974); and Mandapam Camp, India (1969, the first symposium). The published proceedings from these symposia are available through ReefBase.

The society’s highest honor is the Darwin Medal, awarded every four years at the International Coral Reef Symposium. It recognizes a senior ICRS member who has made major, globally recognized contributions over their career. The medal has been given ten times, to David Stoddart, Peter Glynn, Ian Macintyre, Yossi Loya, Charlie Veron, Terry Hughes, Jeremy Jackson, Jack Randall, Nancy Knowlton, and Ove Hoegh-Guldberg.