This volume reports the proceedings of a scientific meeting to identify ways in which international collaborative efforts in coral reef research and management can be coordinated of greatest effect. A secondary objective was to advise ICLARM and the Australian Government in establishing research priorities towards managing coral reef resource systems. Brief summaries of the status of coral reef resources and research needs in a number ofcountries are provided, together with papers on factors influencing reef productivity and management. Recommendations for international collaboration include: formation of linkages between research organizations into research groups, and between regional networks and monitoring and management groups; and networking and coordination in three specific areas - common definitions, models, methods and data; and possible managementsolutions.