Research groups

Our group studies the functioning of aquatic and wetland ecosystems from a systems-level perspective. We focus on the ecological processes that shape species distributions and the organization of freshwater biological communities. To test our hypotheses, we combine field-based sampling with mesocosm and microcosm experiments. While our long-standing focus is on aquatic botany and community ecology, our work is complemented by a range of zoological studies, including taxa such as birds, bryozoans, and sponges.

In addition to basic ecological research, we emphasize the practical application of our findings. We work on restoration ecology of aquatic and wetland habitats and address hydrobiological challenges with strong societal relevance (e.g. the EU Water Framework Directive, the Nature Restoration Law). Our research also integrates social science perspectives: we investigate anglers’ ecological knowledge, their perceptions of ecological processes, and their impacts on the condition of aquatic ecosystems. By combining ecological and social insights, we aim to promote the wise and sustainable use of freshwaters.