Selected publications

The research team has sequenced the complete genome of the microalga from the the Oder disaster 2022 in order to identify future risk factors under which the alga multiplies and produces its toxin. They were able to identify the gene sequences that encode the toxins an important step toward an early warning system. 

The "Night Watch" consortium has compiled studies that use satellite images and star observations to analyse how artificial light is changing our night sky and nocturnal environments. Almost 50 per cent of the earth's surface is affected by light pollution, with natural darkness being outshone by a factor of up to several thousand. And light pollution is increasing: 2-10% each year.

Catchment-scale nitrate dynamics involve complex coupling of hydrological transport and biogeochemical transformations, imposing challenges for source control of diffuse pollution. Coupled modeling of isotope tracers and nitrate dynamics revealed that upland arable areas impose pollution risks under drought while the river-connected lowlands are processing hotspots and more resilient to drought. 

The authors identified the dominant sources of nitrate pollution and biogeochemical transformations in the semiarid region of the Meoqui-Delicias aquifer, Mexico, where the uncontrolled use of chemical fertilizers and manure lead to excessive nutrient input resulting in deterioration of groundwater quality. This provides an evidence base for policy-making to protect drinking water quality.

The study aimed to elucidate the tradeoffs for the utilization of remote sensing data in limnological studies with an example based on the estimation of chlorophyll a due to its importance as a water quality indicator. Assessing atmospheric correction and product limitations ensures alignment with the limnological study. 

A study of oxygen and temperature trends in 46 German lakes showed that temperatures have risen mainly at the surface, but not in the deep water. This led to increased stratification and lower oxygen concentrations. Scenarios showed that these effects of climate change on oxygen content could be compensated by reducing nutrients.

In field experiments the authors investigated why mass developments of macrophytes occur and what the consequences of removing them are. The evaluation of different management approaches showed that the "do nothing" option can also be considered when dealing with aquatic plants. 

In a transdisciplinary study, a research team led by IGB has developed insect-friendly street lighting and tested it in the Dark Sky Reserve Westhavelland as well as in three German municipalities. Tailored and shielded street lamps make the light source almost invisible outside the illuminated area and significantly reduces the lethal attraction for flying insects in different environments.