More than 500 million years ago, the emergence of animals marked a turning point in the evolution of life on Earth that gave rise to present-day biodiversity and ecosystems. This international conference will focus on this crucial event, especially its timing, and possible processes and causes with special emphasis on the relationships between the «Cambrian Explosion» and the subsequent «Great Ordovician Biodiversification Event».

A special symposium dedicated to aspects of Geological Heritage will be held in conjunction with the conference and will highlight associated educational, cultural and socio-economic issues.

The conference will be held in the captivating City of Marrakech, which offers an ideal setting for this scientific gathering. Founded at the beginning of the 11th century by  the Almoravids, the «Red City» boasts an exceptional cultural heritage,  beautiful palm gardens and is set against the beautiful backdrop of the snow capped high peaks of the Atlas Mountains.

A post-conference fieldtrip offers participants the exciting opportunity to visit fossil locaties near Zagora where the Ordovician Fezouata exceptional biota is currently being studied by international scientists.