Prof. Dr. Jörg Oehlmann, oehlmann@bio.uni-frankfurt.de, phone +49 69 798 42142

Dr. Matthias Oetken, oetken@bio.uni-frankfurt.de, phone +49 69 798 42148

PD Dr. Andrea Sundermann, andrea.sundermann@senckenberg.de, phone +49 6051 61954 3124

Module information

Until the 1980s, the quality of surface waters was low due to morphological degradation and entries of insufficiently treated municipal and industrial wastewater. This caused a loss of species and habitats and ultimately to reduced biodiversity. More recently, surface waters and groundwater have improved due to building additional and modern wastewater treatment plants and extensive river restoration projects.

In the lecture of the module, an extensive theoretical basis is laid for aquatic ecology. Although marine systems are considered, the focus is on limnology. In the subsequent practical course accompanied by a seminar, the theoretical knowledge will be repeated and applied. The practical course addresses studies on freshwater ecology considering impacted and almost natural river sections. It aims to establish relationships between the status of the river with its chemical, physical and structural characteristics and its relevant biological communities. Later on, the ecological status of river sections run into a data pool that authorities can use as a basis for nature conservation measures.

Time slot of the module- second half of the summer semester

Number of participants - 12

Special features -

Homepages of the working groups– 

Dept. Oehlmann

Dept. Sundermann