859415 VO Ecology and vegetation, Donau, March and Thaya (2004W)

ECTS Points: 2
This lecture provides an introduction into the ecosystem of alluvial floodplains exemplified on those from the rivers Donau (Danube), March and Thaya. The covered topics range from the abiotic characteristics of this ecosystem and special adaptations of its plants to the main vegetation types and useful plants originating in this ecosystem as well as conservation aspects. Accompanying this lecture, two one-day excursions will be held in the respective areas. The comparison of the montane alluvial floodplains of the Danube with the lowland ones of river March allow to demonstrate many interesting and contrasting aspects of these ecosystems. In particular, the human impact on such ecosystems can be nicely demonstrated, especially when comparing the Lobau, which is disconnected from the Danube by a dam, with the more dynamic parts close to Regelsbrunn and Stopfenreuth. Lecture and excursion are attended by botanists, ecologists, zoologists and limnologists.