News

Dry banks instead of expanses of water, trickles instead of torrents. With climate change, freshwater bodies are losing water. Researchers of IGB are investigating what this means for people and ecosystems. Over the next few weeks, they will answer 10 questions on the topic.

Our planet is experiencing a dramatic decline in biodiversity. Freshwater plants and animals are particularly at risk. IGB scientists reveal where and why freshwater habitats are declining.

How can angling clubs support fish and biodiversity? This question was addressed by representatives from research, nature conservation and the angling community in the BAGGERSEE project. Now they have presented their results.

On Earth Day, we take a look at water bodies from high above, because the greater the distance, the more visible climate-related or ecological problems may become. With the help of image data from the air or from space, IGB researchers monitor the ecological status of and essential processes in surface waters. Today they told us what they discover in their research.

IGB researchers gave feedback on European energy policy plans.

What are the effects of climate change on underwater plants in German inland waters?

A research team with Rita Adrian analysed long-term data on phytoplankton from 19 very different aquatic ecosystems to understand causal links and complex feedbacks between biodiversity, ecosystem functions and environmental factors. The study was published in Nature Communications.

Small bodies of water, i.e. natural ponds, kettle holes and pools, account for 30 to 50 per cent of the world’s standing water. Owing to their size, however, the importance of small water bodies was long underestimated. On the occasion of World Water Day, experts from IGB take a look at these rather under-appreciated ecosystems.