Research initiative - Indirect Effects of Anthropogenic Stressors in Ecosystems

The age of the 'Anthropocene' is characterized by an extensive human influence on the environment on a global scale. Topics prominently discussed in this context include, for example, climate and land use change, environmental pollution and eutrophication, as well as the dramatic loss of biodiversity. The effects of these changes are not only relevant for the survival of many animal and plant species, but even for mankind itself. The research and assessment of the anthropogenic impact on ecosystems is therefore an urgent task for society as a whole.

 

In this context, the research initiative is working on two research clusters. On the one hand, with the focus on temperature changes and eutrophication, anthropogenic stressors of outstanding importance are addressed.

 

 

On the other hand, the harmful potential of microplastic particles in aquatic ecosystems cannot be predicted on the basis of the current state of knowledge, but they represent a direct ecotoxicological risk. The aim of the projects in the research cluster is to develop proposals for risk management of microplastics in inland waters.

 

Further informations are available in German.