Ecosystem Processes

Even deep clear water lakes, which are considered particularly valuable ecosystems, can show signs of eutrophication and algae growth - often for no apparent reason. A new study by four researchers from the Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) now shows that the causes are not always to be found in increasing nutrient inputs from the catchment area or in re-dissolution processes in the deep areas of a lake, but also in the shallower areas up to a water depth of around 20 metres.

DNA metabarcoding is a molecular analysis method that offers a promising solution for efficient insect monitoring. A study published in the journal Molecular Ecology Resources, to which researchers of IGB contributed, provides detailed guidelines for the large-scale application of this method, including estimates of the costs and time required.