SP13: Development of an integrative model

In subproject 13 at the Leibniz Institute of Freschwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) we develop a model, which allows us to evaluate different light situations in a socio-ecological context on the long run.

There are a number of disciplinary oriented studies dealing with the influence of artificial light at different levels within different scientific branches. It can be assumed that anthropogenic light neither can be confined on individual components of the biosphere or individual sectors of the society. Due to the inherent interdisciplinarity of the research field, an integrative approach is essential.

First we will investigate if artificial light has an effect on aquatic-terrestrial food webs and which costs will arrise. The overall objective of the project is the accounting of direct and indirect costs of light for different space and habitat types in the Berlin-Brandenburg area. For the studies of the influence of light on foodwebs, impact models at the species level will be developed initally. They will be calibrated by using the outcomes of the other subprojects. With these results, models on ecosystem level will be developed.

For the investigation of the socio-ecological issue, it is planned to develop an integrative model considering the findings of the sub-projects.

Scientist is Tobias Degen
Leader of subproject is PD Dr. Franz Hölker