Ecosystem research
The ecosystem research investigated the relationships of different ecological levels, for example at different spatial and trophic levels as well as between species (inter-specific) and (intraspecific) within a species. One aim is to understand developments within ecosystems by taking into account all relevant factors.
Ecosystem research can take into account the “ human factor ” with all its influences. This is essential for analyzing ecosystems that are heavily influenced by humans, such as the cultural landscape or in cities. However, areas that are as unaffected as possible by human influences can also be examined in order to understand the “natural” further developments or reactions.
By focusing on ecological interactions, ecosystem research can contribute to networked thinking and promote interdisciplinary approaches. For well-analyzed systems, ecosystem research can generate proposals for action and / or evaluate them with regard to the desired goals.
Typically, ecosystem research combines measurement , literature and expert knowledge, and modeling . Cooperation between different specialist disciplines can be required.
Example of the Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park
In the Schleswig-Holstein Wadden Sea National Park , the national park administration has been following the ecosystem approach since the early 1980s. In 2004 a comprehensive report by various authors was published as a product of the “Complete Synthesis of Wadden Sea Ecosystem Research”. It contains chapters on "The Wadden Sea Ecosystem", "Sediment dynamics, mass transfer and ecology in the Wadden Sea" as well as "Anthropogenic influences" (eutrophication or the consequences of eutrophication, on substances and substances with environmentally harmful effects, on fishing in the Wadden Sea and tourism) and " Protection of the Wadden Sea - Basics, Goals, Tools and Measures ”.