News Archive 2020
all news | only media releases
![MIE celebrates International Year of Plant Health (IYPH), featuring the Molecular Interaction Ecology (MIE) Management Team. MIE celebrates International Year of Plant Health (IYPH), featuring the Molecular Interaction Ecology (MIE) Management Team.](/fileadmin/_processed_/1/3/csm_2020_MIE-group_0377_SBernhardt-iDiv2_37ea3d9786.jpg)
Over the last months, several MIE group members presented their research on plant health related topics. However, this would not have been possible without the MIE management team. Next to… › more
![The study shows that even species that are considered widespread, such as the corn poppy (<em>Papaver rhoeas</em>), are steadily declining in Germany. (Picture: Sebastian Lakner) The study shows that even species that are considered widespread, such as the corn poppy (<em>Papaver rhoeas</em>), are steadily declining in Germany. (Picture: Sebastian Lakner)](/fileadmin/_processed_/9/a/csm_pic_4432406c1520201210141308_8b6a3a54da.jpg)
Most comprehensive evaluation of the occurrence of vascular plants in Germany to date › more
![Prof Nico Eisenhauer (Picture: Christian Hüller) Prof Nico Eisenhauer (Picture: Christian Hüller)](/fileadmin/_processed_/b/9/csm_pic_257c7b1b5520201210175614_85cdaeae98.jpg)
Most important German research award › more
![Also the robin <em>(Erithacus rubecula)</em> contributes to this: According to the study, ten percent more bird species in the surrounding area increase the feeling of happiness as much as a comparable increase in income. (Picture: Senckenberg) Also the robin <em>(Erithacus rubecula)</em> contributes to this: According to the study, ten percent more bird species in the surrounding area increase the feeling of happiness as much as a comparable increase in income. (Picture: Senckenberg)](/fileadmin/_processed_/4/b/csm_pic_13b8b037a520201203103616_131b899362.jpg)
Study shows: Happier people often congregate in environments with many bird species › more
![MEES honours students mentored by Nicole van Dam MEES honours students mentored by Nicole van Dam](/fileadmin/_processed_/8/f/csm_2020HappyHonoursHourGroup_6439c89adb.jpg)
Four excellent MS students of the Master Ecology and Evolutionary Systematics (MEES) were selected to participate in Honours Programme at FSU Jena. MSc students Dongik Chang, Alex Krüger, Sheethal… › more
![EuropaBON is supposed to bring together a wide range of different actors in a network across Europe. This involves monitoring data from volunteer ornithologists to remote sensing data. (Picture: S. Kadrijevic - AdobeStock) EuropaBON is supposed to bring together a wide range of different actors in a network across Europe. This involves monitoring data from volunteer ornithologists to remote sensing data. (Picture: S. Kadrijevic - AdobeStock)](/fileadmin/_processed_/e/1/csm_pic_85d86b21eb20201124155812_3e586721e0.jpg)
Information system on Europe’s biodiversity and ecosystems for policy makers › more
![Leipzig is host to the oldest botanical garden in Germany. On an area of only three hectares, around 6500 of the 350,000 plant species worldwide grow here. (Picture: Swen Reichhold) Leipzig is host to the oldest botanical garden in Germany. On an area of only three hectares, around 6500 of the 350,000 plant species worldwide grow here. (Picture: Swen Reichhold)](/fileadmin/_processed_/5/8/csm_pic_94bd660a0d20201124084828_05b8e97af8.jpg)
City could become a global reference for plant biodiversity researchers › more
![Dongik Chang Dongik Chang](/fileadmin/_processed_/6/f/csm_Picture_of_Dongik2_2d6f8f33d8.jpg)
Dongik Chang, has recently joined the Molecular Interaction Ecology (MIE) group as a research assistant and to write her MSc thesis. Dongik studied environmental health science in South Korea and… › more
![The drought of the last three years has favoured fungal diseases. In Leipzig's floodplain forests, ash and sycamore maple in particular are currently dying off. Even the English oak is already affected. (Picture: André Künzelmann/UFZ) The drought of the last three years has favoured fungal diseases. In Leipzig's floodplain forests, ash and sycamore maple in particular are currently dying off. Even the English oak is already affected. (Picture: André Künzelmann/UFZ)](/fileadmin/_processed_/5/2/csm_pic_abb5a6e8f020201123090506_775949511d.jpg)
Experts from research, authorities and NGOs develop a common vision and evaluate possible measures › more
![MIE celebrates Plant Health, featuring Adam Anaia MIE celebrates Plant Health, featuring Adam Anaia](/fileadmin/_processed_/e/8/csm_2020_Redouan-Adam-Anaia_Year-of-Planthealth_0206_iDiv2_2eb3827b2c.jpg)
MIE celebrates Plant Health, featuring Adam Anaia: “I am Redouan Adam Anaia from the Netherlands. During my bachelor in Molecular Life Sciences, I became intrigued by plant chemodiversity and its… › more
![(Picture: Stefan Bernhardt, iDiv) (Picture: Stefan Bernhardt, iDiv)](/fileadmin/_processed_/e/8/csm_pic_c682f8f2aa20201119092223_faed8793df.jpg)
12 iDiv members named Highly Cited Researchers › more
![Jessil Pajar wins second best poster prize at the Max Planck-Chemical Ecology Institute symposium Jessil Pajar wins second best poster prize at the Max Planck-Chemical Ecology Institute symposium](/fileadmin/_processed_/c/3/csm_20201109_Picture_Jessil_poster_977a84de30.jpg)
Jessil Pajar’s first poster from her PhD project won the 2nd place at the Max Planck-Chemical Ecology Institute symposium! Jessil is working on a project entitle “Tapping into signaling interaction… › more
![Diverse plant communities provide multiple benefits and can help control herbivore pests. (Picture: Anne Ebeling) Diverse plant communities provide multiple benefits and can help control herbivore pests. (Picture: Anne Ebeling)](/fileadmin/_processed_/7/f/csm_pic_e684e3383820201030113458_7bd92756ed.jpg)
Species-rich plant communities help to naturally reduce herbivore impacts. › more
![Lemurs exclusively appear in Madagascar. This red-fronted lemur mainly feeds on fruits. (Picture: Omer Nevo) Lemurs exclusively appear in Madagascar. This red-fronted lemur mainly feeds on fruits. (Picture: Omer Nevo)](/fileadmin/_processed_/c/9/csm_pic_983cf9eed320201028153533_e30e1cfb28.jpg)
New iDiv research group investigates communication between plants and animals › more
![Bog complex of living and stagnant (foreground) raised bog with interspersed open water areas (called bog hollows, centre of picture) (Picture: Thomas Sperle) Bog complex of living and stagnant (foreground) raised bog with interspersed open water areas (called bog hollows, centre of picture) (Picture: Thomas Sperle)](/fileadmin/_processed_/a/a/csm_pic_d9660cb8bf20201029091404_dbaa3b6cd6.jpg)
Due to rising temperatures and longer dry periods, two plant species have already gone extinct. › more
![The participation of expert volunteers in Citizen Science projects (here at the Butterfly Monitoring Germany, a project of the UFZ) is a fundamental pillar of biodiversity monitorings in Germany, especially for species groups such as butterflies, beetles, The participation of expert volunteers in Citizen Science projects (here at the Butterfly Monitoring Germany, a project of the UFZ) is a fundamental pillar of biodiversity monitorings in Germany, especially for species groups such as butterflies, beetles, hoverflies or cicadas. (Picture: André Künzelmann/UFZ)](/fileadmin/_processed_/b/0/csm_pic_c8f7583df220201027114912_40dc5b050b.jpg)
Integration of contributors promotes the quantity and quality of data › more
![The research team used the iDiv Ecotron, where identical climatic situations can be simulated in artificial ecosystems and observed with cameras. (Picture: iDiv) The research team used the iDiv Ecotron, where identical climatic situations can be simulated in artificial ecosystems and observed with cameras. (Picture: iDiv)](/fileadmin/_processed_/c/9/csm_pic_4d60738b9e20201023152845_619660a0ec.jpg)
Research group of iDiv and Jena University uses novel research method to study effect of insect decline on plant biodiversity › more
![Extensive grassland site in Hainich, Germany. Low intensity management grasslands maintain strong synergies between specialized species and functions and supply a more distinct set of ecosystem services than high intensity grasslands. (Picture: Michael Bo Extensive grassland site in Hainich, Germany. Low intensity management grasslands maintain strong synergies between specialized species and functions and supply a more distinct set of ecosystem services than high intensity grasslands. (Picture: Michael Bonkowski)](/fileadmin/_processed_/c/5/csm_pic_2fadbbee1620201016122530_863df2087a.jpg)
A first assessment of the effects of land management on the linkages between biodiversity, ecosystem functions and ecosystem services › more
![New study outlines the scientific basis for redesigning a new set of biodiversity goals. (Picture: Pixabay) New study outlines the scientific basis for redesigning a new set of biodiversity goals. (Picture: Pixabay)](/fileadmin/_processed_/3/a/csm_pic_d7b479ce4920201023085007_008c042da6.jpg)
New publication in Science with iDiv contribution › more
![Crispus Mbaluto successfully defended his PhD thesis! Crispus Mbaluto successfully defended his PhD thesis!](/fileadmin/_processed_/3/c/csm_20201021CrispusMbalutowithHatafter_PhD_defence2_cd38bbf0e5.jpg)
On 21 October 2020 we had the first PhD defence in MIE. Crispus Mbaluto defended his PhD thesis with great success; due to the Corona measurements the defence was held online. The hat that Crispus… › more
![Jessil Ann Pajar Jessil Ann Pajar](/fileadmin/_processed_/d/e/csm_2020_Jessil-Ann-Pajar_IMG_0659_iDiv2_5d39474091.jpg)
The year 2020 is the United Nations' International Year of Plant Health (IYPH). Every month, one of our team members introduces his or her interest in plant health. October 2020 is the month of… › more
![In Germany, biodiversity in the agricultural landscape has declined. (Picture: Stefan Bernhardt, iDiv) In Germany, biodiversity in the agricultural landscape has declined. (Picture: Stefan Bernhardt, iDiv)](/fileadmin/_processed_/e/5/csm_pic_db1674f0e320201019151404_fafcc9b319.jpg)
Position paper with participation of iDiv scientists › more
![The research team’s experiments took place at locations such as the Saaleaue, where the Jena Experiment on functional biodiversity research is running. (Picture: Nico Eisenhauer) The research team’s experiments took place at locations such as the Saaleaue, where the Jena Experiment on functional biodiversity research is running. (Picture: Nico Eisenhauer)](/fileadmin/_processed_/6/0/csm_pic_b8c17fd06920201007124125_561b9f818b.jpg)
Biodiversity experiment provides new insights into the relationship between plant traits and ecosystem functions › more
![Microscopic images from pollen, which are important for pollinators, obtained by image-based particle analysis. Each row shows a single pollen grain of a specific plant with a normal microscopic image (first image on the left) and fluorescence images for Microscopic images from pollen, which are important for pollinators, obtained by image-based particle analysis. Each row shows a single pollen grain of a specific plant with a normal microscopic image (first image on the left) and fluorescence images for different spectral ranges (colored images on the right). (Picture: Susanne Dunker)](/fileadmin/_processed_/7/e/csm_pic_75aa37d1e220201006072846_47a3781493.jpg)
New method developed at UFZ and iDiv combines image-based particle analysis with artificial intelligence › more
![Flower-rich meadow at a park in Leipzig, Germany. (Picture: Gabriele Rada / iDiv) Flower-rich meadow at a park in Leipzig, Germany. (Picture: Gabriele Rada / iDiv)](/fileadmin/_processed_/1/5/csm_pic_645fcaeb5520200908150011_897d4048c6.jpg)
Data collected at species-rich sites may lead to the wrong conclusions on overall trends › more
![<em>Gymnadenia conopsea</em> is common in Northern Europe, but can also be found in Central Europa. The orchid-rich semi-natural grasslands of the Czech Republic are among the most species-rich plant communities in Europe. (Picture: Tiffany Knight) <em>Gymnadenia conopsea</em> is common in Northern Europe, but can also be found in Central Europa. The orchid-rich semi-natural grasslands of the Czech Republic are among the most species-rich plant communities in Europe. (Picture: Tiffany Knight)](/fileadmin/_processed_/1/9/csm_pic_b997b1d3fb20200928100007_c1f100c8a2.jpg)
New automated method quickly and accurately reveals which species are most threatened › more
![Redouan Adam Anaia starts his PhD project at MIE Redouan Adam Anaia starts his PhD project at MIE](/fileadmin/_processed_/6/d/csm_20200924_Adam_welcome_d3458a111f.jpg)
Redouan Adam Anaia has joined the Molecular Interaction Ecology group at the German Centre for Integrated Biodiversity Research (iDiv) as a PhD student. Adam will work on the the chemodiversity of… › more
![New review on gut bacterial communities of insects by Rebekka Sontowski and Nicole van Dam New review on gut bacterial communities of insects by Rebekka Sontowski and Nicole van Dam](/fileadmin/_processed_/4/f/csm_20200921_Figure_publication_Rebekka_f834369274.jpg)
Like in many other organisms, the guts of insects are full of many different bacteria. These bacteria can help their host to overcome toxic diets or can boost its resistance to pathogens. Rebekka… › more
![MIE celebrates Plant Health, featuring Jennifer Gabriel MIE celebrates Plant Health, featuring Jennifer Gabriel](/fileadmin/_processed_/1/0/csm_2020_Jennifer-Gabriel_0649b_2_iDiv_94ef60ec11.jpg)
The year 2020 is the United Nations' International Year of Plant Health (IYPH). Every month, one of our team members introduces his or her interest in plant health. September 2020 is the month of… › more
![Old beech: Primary forests are crucial for biodiversity conservation and store high quantities of carbon in biomass, therefore helping to mitigate climate change. (Picture: Tzvetan Zlatanov) Old beech: Primary forests are crucial for biodiversity conservation and store high quantities of carbon in biomass, therefore helping to mitigate climate change. (Picture: Tzvetan Zlatanov)](/fileadmin/_processed_/b/7/csm_pic_aebd749a3e20200915133155_b51736096f.jpg)
First international assessment of the protection state of mostly ‘untouched’ forests in Europe › more
![A young chimpanzee feeds on seed pods in the Issa valley, Tanzania. (Picture: R. Drummond-Clarke/GMERC) A young chimpanzee feeds on seed pods in the Issa valley, Tanzania. (Picture: R. Drummond-Clarke/GMERC)](/fileadmin/_processed_/9/3/csm_pic_d7336cb14020200914101551_2231246c6f.jpg)
Both historical and recent variation in ecological and environmental conditions are associated with larger behavioural repertoires in wild chimpanzees › more
![Rebekka and Leila start four-week internship at EcoMetEoR and MIE Rebekka and Leila start four-week internship at EcoMetEoR and MIE](/fileadmin/_processed_/d/1/csm_Picture_Leila_Rebekka_webpage_b034e16ddd.jpg)
Like many other crops sunflowers suffer from soil- born pathogens like the fungus Verticillium dahliae, which can cause up to 30% yield loss. The usual way in agriculture to control this fungus… › more
![Natural habitats that support high biodiversity are increasingly under pressure from agricultural land use. (Picture: Juan Carlos Munoz / Adobe Stocks) Natural habitats that support high biodiversity are increasingly under pressure from agricultural land use. (Picture: Juan Carlos Munoz / Adobe Stocks)](/fileadmin/_processed_/3/e/csm_pic_34797f195220200910074525_ec3c6331ba.jpg)
How biodiversity could be preserved globally without sacrificing necessary production output › more
![Paper published by Crispus Mbaluto Paper published by Crispus Mbaluto](/fileadmin/_processed_/b/8/csm_AoBPlant_Study_figure_Crispus_0e92c098db.jpg)
Congratulations to Crispus Mbaluto! The first chapter of his PhD thesis is now online at AoB PLANTS. His research, funded by DAAD, shows that the effect of aboveground caterpillar feeding on… › more
![Dr Martin Mascher, former head of the iDiv Junior Research Group "Domestication Genomics" (Picture: IPK/ Andreas Bähring) Dr Martin Mascher, former head of the iDiv Junior Research Group "Domestication Genomics" (Picture: IPK/ Andreas Bähring)](/fileadmin/_processed_/a/7/csm_pic_4c6482246620200903140348_a2ac40c32e.jpg)
Based on a media release by the Leibniz Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Gatersleben: Great success for iDiv Junior Research Group head Dr Martin Mascher. The 34 years old… › more
![Schwebfliege. Zusammen mit den Wildbienen sind sie die wichtigsten Bestäuber unserer Blütenpflanzen. (Picture: Willibald Lang / Flickr) Schwebfliege. Zusammen mit den Wildbienen sind sie die wichtigsten Bestäuber unserer Blütenpflanzen. (Picture: Willibald Lang / Flickr)](/fileadmin/_processed_/a/8/csm_pic_08c0e0825320200901105345_689b1dbe4f.jpg)
Nature conservation policy too rarely succeeds in changing people's behaviour › more
![Wildlife watching can be highly an emotional and educational experience. While scientific studies up to the year 2000 examined solely negative effects of interactions between humans and wild animals, more and more analyses now capture the positive effects Wildlife watching can be highly an emotional and educational experience. While scientific studies up to the year 2000 examined solely negative effects of interactions between humans and wild animals, more and more analyses now capture the positive effects on humans. (Picture: Jula Zimmermann)](/fileadmin/_processed_/f/6/csm_pic_51439e7fba20200831143625_af88540077.jpg)
Report by Joel Methorst (iDiv, Senckenberg, Goethe University Frankfurt), yDiv doctoral researcher Leipzig, Frankfurt. Non-material contributions of wildlife (WCP) to human well-being are gaining… › more
![Leipzig's floodplain forest is one of the largest auf its kind in Central Europe. But drought, climate change and human intervention are putting it under huge pressure. (Picture: Tabea Turrini / iDiv) Leipzig's floodplain forest is one of the largest auf its kind in Central Europe. But drought, climate change and human intervention are putting it under huge pressure. (Picture: Tabea Turrini / iDiv)](/fileadmin/_processed_/6/1/csm_pic_d8120033ac20200828091949_3ed8846455.jpg)
Environmental Ministry of Saxony and City of Leipzig agree on measures to improve state of Leipzig’s floodplain forest › more
![Rope bridges can effectively help primates to cross transportation or service corridors. Colobus monkey (Colobus angolensis palliatus) in Diani, Kenya. (Picture: Andrea Donaldson / Colobus Conservation) Rope bridges can effectively help primates to cross transportation or service corridors. Colobus monkey (Colobus angolensis palliatus) in Diani, Kenya. (Picture: Andrea Donaldson / Colobus Conservation)](/fileadmin/_processed_/9/2/csm_pic_8018534ae420200824120332_87fc8b4ddb.jpg)
Evidence-based conservation is key to curb primate population declines › more
![Aerial view of the Jena Experiment. (Picture: Jena Experiment) Aerial view of the Jena Experiment. (Picture: Jena Experiment)](/fileadmin/_processed_/0/0/csm_pic_937163fb3a20200819123034_a99271357d.jpg)
Findings from experimental sites are reliable. › more
![Picture: © S. Bernhardt/iDiv. Picture: © S. Bernhardt/iDiv.](/fileadmin/_processed_/e/7/csm_2020_Ming-Zeng_9670_iDiv2_01_a91d76b76e.jpg)
The year 2020 is the United Nations' International Year of Plant Health (IYPH). Every month, one of our team members introduces his or her interest in plant health. August 2020 is the month of Ming… › more
![Rebekka Sontowski Rebekka Sontowski](/fileadmin/_processed_/8/d/csm_.20200820_Rebekka_Docu2_a843332644.png)
On Sunday 9 August 2020 the local TV station MDR broadcasted the documentary "Wie geht es unseren Insekten". It highlights iDiv research on insect decline, including the Flexpool project… › more
![So-called "algal blooms" are the result of a nutrient entering the aquatic system, e.g. a lake, and causing excessive growth of algae. (Picture: Adobe Stock) So-called "algal blooms" are the result of a nutrient entering the aquatic system, e.g. a lake, and causing excessive growth of algae. (Picture: Adobe Stock)](/fileadmin/_processed_/8/1/csm_pic_6efd0b916f20200817155145_9a16d0c93b.jpg)
Umfangreiche Datenanalyse zeigt: Schwellenwerte aus Umweltdaten kaum ablesbar. › more
![Buff-tailed bumblebee (<em>Bombus terrestris</em>) (Picture: Wilhelm Osterman) Buff-tailed bumblebee (<em>Bombus terrestris</em>) (Picture: Wilhelm Osterman)](/fileadmin/_processed_/c/3/csm_pic_8b5a0767cd20200814110849_1c82a2bc16.jpg)
New study suggests it does, making them better pollinators, too. › more
![A pollen supplementation experiment where a naturally pollinated flower is compared to a hand-supplemented flower. (Picture: Amibeth Thompson) A pollen supplementation experiment where a naturally pollinated flower is compared to a hand-supplemented flower. (Picture: Amibeth Thompson)](/fileadmin/_processed_/b/1/csm_pic_8d00d500b420200810112802_5aadb22754.jpg)
Highly specialised plants particularly at risk. › more
![Biodiversity loss has detrimental effects on ecosystem processes. Soil chemicals decimate plant decomposers, which inhibits their ecosystem function. This interrupts the nutrient cycle, for instance. (Picture: Léa Beaumelle) Biodiversity loss has detrimental effects on ecosystem processes. Soil chemicals decimate plant decomposers, which inhibits their ecosystem function. This interrupts the nutrient cycle, for instance. (Picture: Léa Beaumelle)](/fileadmin/_processed_/5/8/csm_pic_de145ee7b420200730132425_5c1767bbea.jpg)
Diversity of soil organisms has key role in the carbon cycle. › more
![The project "VielFalterGarten" will start with workshops on the different butterfly species that can be found in Leipzig. (Picture: Guy Peer) The project "VielFalterGarten" will start with workshops on the different butterfly species that can be found in Leipzig. (Picture: Guy Peer)](/fileadmin/_processed_/c/a/csm_pic_aebf6b379520200803124932_25848c9c31.jpg)
Citizen Science Project "VielFalterGarten" offers workshops in Leipzig › more
![Nematodes are very small, microscopic worms that can be found in soils almost all over the world. (Picture: Andy Murray) Nematodes are very small, microscopic worms that can be found in soils almost all over the world. (Picture: Andy Murray)](/fileadmin/_processed_/f/b/csm_pic_d82922ad1820200803171927_ea05db6199.jpg)
Only few studies investigate soil biodiversity in tropical and subtropical regions. › more
![Aerial photo of a forest patch in the Brazilian Atlantic rainforest surrounded by sugar cane. (Picture: Mateus Dantas de Paula) Aerial photo of a forest patch in the Brazilian Atlantic rainforest surrounded by sugar cane. (Picture: Mateus Dantas de Paula)](/fileadmin/_processed_/4/1/csm_pic_d3aaa1d0f620200723142900_5043e6c2f1.jpg)
New international research breaks ground for the next generation of biodiversity forcasts. › more
![Climate change and land use reduce the biomass of soil animals. While changing climate reduces the body size of organisms, cultivation reduces their frequency. (Picture: Lisa Vogel / UFZ (illustration)) Climate change and land use reduce the biomass of soil animals. While changing climate reduces the body size of organisms, cultivation reduces their frequency. (Picture: Lisa Vogel / UFZ (illustration))](/fileadmin/_processed_/a/f/csm_pic_28fbe5c33e20200728155031_eb9c987ae5.jpg)
As a result of climate change, soil animals are getting smaller, and their numbers are falling due to intensive land use › more
![Picture: © S. Bernhardt/iDiv. Picture: © S. Bernhardt/iDiv.](/fileadmin/_processed_/7/b/csm_2020_Axel-Touw_0705_iDiv2_7acbc6e9d1.jpg)
The year 2020 is the United Nations' International Year of Plant Health (IYPH). Every month, one of our team members introduces his or her interest in plant health. July 2020 is the month of Axel… › more
![The collaborative project of young researchers and artists from Leipzig shows that there is much more to pollination than the story of flowers and bees. (Picture: iDiv / G. Rada) The collaborative project of young researchers and artists from Leipzig shows that there is much more to pollination than the story of flowers and bees. (Picture: iDiv / G. Rada)](/fileadmin/_processed_/9/c/csm_pic_4c5465194a20200717173615_4066c651e4.jpg)
New exhibition at the Botanical Garden of Leipzig University now open to the public. › more
![To make wildlife trade more sustainable, it is essential to know and understand the reasons why people hunt and consume bushmeat. (Picture: Wild Chimpanzee Foundation) To make wildlife trade more sustainable, it is essential to know and understand the reasons why people hunt and consume bushmeat. (Picture: Wild Chimpanzee Foundation)](/fileadmin/_processed_/1/9/csm_pic_e634796d9220200715145606_ecb22717f3.jpg)
Disease prevention and protection of species require differentiated strategies. › more
![Water hyacinth <em>(Eichhornia crassipes)</em> invasion in the Hartbeespoort reservoir in South Africa. Introduced as an ornamental plant it has become invasive across all continents except Antarctica. The plant alters local water flow, community composit Water hyacinth <em>(Eichhornia crassipes)</em> invasion in the Hartbeespoort reservoir in South Africa. Introduced as an ornamental plant it has become invasive across all continents except Antarctica. The plant alters local water flow, community composition and provides habitats for mosquitos that act as a major vector of diseases (Picture: Olga Ernst, CC BY-SA 4.0)](/fileadmin/_processed_/3/a/csm_pic_75fb895edf20200714151917_faad587300.jpg)
Alien species dramatically contribute to future biodiversity loss › more
![(Picture: J. P. Kasper) (Picture: J. P. Kasper)](/fileadmin/_processed_/a/c/csm_pic_b478956e7f20200703094456_323bfb7af8.jpg)
iDiv researchers to play a leading role in setting up National Research Data Infrastructure › more
![The space of the root economy comprises two independent gradients. The expression of a plant's roots depends on how the respective species has strategically aligned itself in the course of evolution with regard to these two gradients. A 'fast' or 'slow' e The space of the root economy comprises two independent gradients. The expression of a plant's roots depends on how the respective species has strategically aligned itself in the course of evolution with regard to these two gradients. A 'fast' or 'slow' economic strategy within the construction gradient is found in roots as well as in above-ground leaves and shoots. The collaboration gradient, on the other hand, only exists underground: do-it-yourself roots are comparatively thin and long to absorb as many nutrients as possible from the soil, while outsourcing roots are thicker to accommodate the symbiotic fungi. (Picture: Authors of the study)](/fileadmin/_processed_/2/9/csm_pic_f7081c262620200706100940_d4ed04b478.jpg)
International group of researchers with iDiv participation describes the growth strategies of plant roots › more
![The North American Raccoon (<em>Procyon lotor</em>) is a medium-sized mammal native to North America. (Picture: André Künzelmann) The North American Raccoon (<em>Procyon lotor</em>) is a medium-sized mammal native to North America. (Picture: André Künzelmann)](/fileadmin/_processed_/6/3/csm_pic_faaeb9a30720200629122125_9264bce686.jpg)
A contribution to "World scientists’ warning to humanity: a second notice" › more
![Practicum bags with clover plants, caterpillars and materials, packed by Jennifer Gabriel (right). Pictures: NM van Dam, FSU Jena/iDiv Practicum bags with clover plants, caterpillars and materials, packed by Jennifer Gabriel (right). Pictures: NM van Dam, FSU Jena/iDiv](/fileadmin/_processed_/5/8/csm_20200625Coronaproofpracticum_43ed58a591.png)
If anything, the Corona crisis forces us to be creative about our teaching. For the third year Bachelor Biology course “Vom Molekül zu komplexen Gemeinschaften (BB3.Ö13)“ at FSU Jena, PhD student… › more
![Picture: © S. Bernhardt (iDiv) Picture: © S. Bernhardt (iDiv)](/fileadmin/_processed_/0/a/csm_2020_Rebekka-Sontowski_0639_iDiv_2_015a82ee18.jpg)
The year 2020 is the United Nations' International Year of Plant Health (IYPH). Every month, one of our team members introduces his or her interest in plant health. June 2020 is the month of Rebekka… › more
![Ongoing forest loss is transforming ecosystems around the world, leading to diverse biodiversity change from gains to losses in different animals and plants. (Picture: Malkolm Boothroyd) Ongoing forest loss is transforming ecosystems around the world, leading to diverse biodiversity change from gains to losses in different animals and plants. (Picture: Malkolm Boothroyd)](/fileadmin/_processed_/3/a/csm_pic_183dddf7ab20200618134211_f4f65fdf34.jpg)
New international research reveals the far-reaching impacts of forest cover loss on global biodiversity. › more
![Safety signs in Leipzig City Park in March (Picture: Gabriele Rada) Safety signs in Leipzig City Park in March (Picture: Gabriele Rada)](/fileadmin/_processed_/3/7/csm_pic_678b53a28f20200615171243_2b00432ea4.jpg)
iDiv economists combine epidemiological model with survey data for the first time › more
![Kudos to our MIE First Aid Helpers! Kudos to our MIE First Aid Helpers!](/fileadmin/_processed_/c/1/csm_Photo_Alex_Su_Andreas_first_aid_course_2_06_545aac03fc.jpg)
Today, Su Görth, Alexander Weinhold and Andreas Schedl took a course to freshen up their First Aid skills. Their efforts will ensure that MIE and others at iDiv will get assistance when needed.… › more
![Two positions in Ecometabolomics at iDiv Two positions in Ecometabolomics at iDiv](/fileadmin/_processed_/c/7/csm_IMG_20141210_095525_3_b46148a576.jpg)
We are currently advertising for a postdoctoral researcher and a technician to join our group in iDiv. The Postdoc will join the Ecometeor, iDiv’s support unit for ecometabolomics, and will focus on… › more
![Martin Volf Martin Volf](/fileadmin/_processed_/e/7/csm_Martin_Canopy_Crane_3_8451dbad31.jpg)
On a recently released video on the iDiv YouTube channel, former MIE member Martin Volf induces large oak trees with methyljasmonate. He carries out this experiment at a stunning height of more than… › more
![Register now for the Citizen Science Dialogue Forum! (Picture: Florian Pappert - www.lighthooked.de) Register now for the Citizen Science Dialogue Forum! (Picture: Florian Pappert - www.lighthooked.de)](/fileadmin/_processed_/9/b/csm_pic_eb49f383a620200612105551_cb12144519.jpg)
Online forum to further develop citizen science strategy in Germany › more
![The black-veined white <em>(Aporia crataegi)</em> is a widespread butterfly found in very variable habitats. It is one of the few butterfly species to benefit from Natura 2000 conservation areas. (Picture: Martin Musche) The black-veined white <em>(Aporia crataegi)</em> is a widespread butterfly found in very variable habitats. It is one of the few butterfly species to benefit from Natura 2000 conservation areas. (Picture: Martin Musche)](/fileadmin/_processed_/3/d/csm_pic_50065ed6dc20200525131405_26e0e58721.jpg)
Only a few butterfly species appear to benefit from Natura 2000 conservation areas › more
![In these times of human retreat, we get a glimpse of how much nature the upcoming UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration can bring us. (Picture: AB Photography/stock.adobe.com) In these times of human retreat, we get a glimpse of how much nature the upcoming UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration can bring us. (Picture: AB Photography/stock.adobe.com)](/fileadmin/_processed_/1/1/csm_pic_5238a7c1c920200520161131_2ccaaeb703.jpg)
A comment by Prof Dr Henrique Pereira › more
![](/fileadmin/_processed_/2/4/csm_GEOBON_conference_2020_70669d3ddd.jpg)
You are invited to submit your abstract by 15 May 2020 for the GEO BON Open Science Conference & All Hands Meeting 2020. › more
![MIE celebrates Plant Health, featuring visiting scholar Dr Qianhan Shang MIE celebrates Plant Health, featuring visiting scholar Dr Qianhan Shang](/fileadmin/_processed_/8/0/csm_2020_Qianhan-Shang-Labor_0237_iDiv2_5e242a8c7f.jpg)
The year 2020 is the United Nations' International Year of Plant Health (IYPH). Every month, one of our team members introduces his or her interest in plant health. May 2020 is the month of Qianhan… › more
![Mid- and high-latitude ecosystems from the Northern Hemisphere are some of the ecosystems expected to be more affected by the increases in pathogen proportions. The picture shows forests in the west of the USA. (Picture: Manuel Delgado-Baquerizo) Mid- and high-latitude ecosystems from the Northern Hemisphere are some of the ecosystems expected to be more affected by the increases in pathogen proportions. The picture shows forests in the west of the USA. (Picture: Manuel Delgado-Baquerizo)](/fileadmin/_processed_/d/c/csm_pic_e21a695ec520200511161848_9ebb00252f.jpg)
Scientists develop global map of future risk areas for plant diseasesBased on a media release by Pablo de Olavide University Sevilla Sevilla / Leipzig / Halle. Global warming will increase the… › more
![Species-rich rainforest of Mount Halimun Salak National Park, Java, Indonesia. (Picture: Leipzig University / Alexandra Muellner-Riehl) Species-rich rainforest of Mount Halimun Salak National Park, Java, Indonesia. (Picture: Leipzig University / Alexandra Muellner-Riehl)](/fileadmin/_processed_/6/a/csm_pic_8bccc2c36320200511165406_8ce16fa038.jpg)
New approach to phylogenetically guided drug discovery › more
![In warmer marine areas, like in Huinay Research Station (Chile), increases in the number of species were more pronounced. (Picture: Laura Antão) In warmer marine areas, like in Huinay Research Station (Chile), increases in the number of species were more pronounced. (Picture: Laura Antão)](/fileadmin/_processed_/1/2/csm_pic_259320282a20200504115748_59e1b72b34.jpg)
New international research reveals warming in temperate regions leads to species gains at sea, but not on land. › more
![The global number of land-dwelling insects is in decline. (Picture: Gabriele Rada) The global number of land-dwelling insects is in decline. (Picture: Gabriele Rada)](/fileadmin/_processed_/c/2/csm_pic_d0f8b6b78420200422134156_477535c8a9.jpg)
Global insect populations show highly variable local trends. › more
![](/fileadmin/_processed_/5/f/csm_sImpact_01_41a94728aa.jpg)
In 2013, the sDiv working group sImpact started to develop classification and quantification standards for impacts of invasive alien species. A workshop with 16 international experts including Ingolf… › more
![MIE celebrates Plant Health featuring our iDiv gardener Alvin Barth MIE celebrates Plant Health featuring our iDiv gardener Alvin Barth](/fileadmin/_processed_/9/c/csm_2020_Alvin-Barth_0021_iDiv2_d6aa01cdb3.jpg)
The year 2020 is the United Nations' International Year of Plant Health (IYPH). Every month, one of our team members introduces his or her interest in plant health. In addition to scientists, also… › more
![While some small-ranged species have disappeared, widespread, nitrogen-loving, and occasionally exotic species are on the rise. (Picture: Martin Adámek / Czech Academy of Sciences) While some small-ranged species have disappeared, widespread, nitrogen-loving, and occasionally exotic species are on the rise. (Picture: Martin Adámek / Czech Academy of Sciences)](/fileadmin/_processed_/f/f/csm_pic_738f6f30ab20200413152003_bb67af2720.jpg)
More nitrogen in the soil: common plant species on the rise › more
![Around 300 tree species grow in 50 hectares of old-growth forest at Barro Colorado Island, Panama. (Picture: Christian Ziegler) Around 300 tree species grow in 50 hectares of old-growth forest at Barro Colorado Island, Panama. (Picture: Christian Ziegler)](/fileadmin/_processed_/f/1/csm_pic_9173269a2520200406105537_963943b4f1.jpg)
New method enables predictions for the development of species-rich forests › more
![BeMOST website online BeMOST website online](/fileadmin/_processed_/a/a/csm_Picture_BeMOST_f5ade310a1.jpg)
The BeMOST project lead by Maria Pappas (Democritus University of Thrace) published its website. This collaborative research project is funded by Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation… › more
![Cocoa plantation in West Africa (Picture: Janina Kleemann) Cocoa plantation in West Africa (Picture: Janina Kleemann)](/fileadmin/_processed_/7/1/csm_pic_cef9189d5a20200331095723_d74d67429c.jpg)
Study evaluates and quantifies ecosystem service flows › more
![Restoring ecosystems through rewilding allows wildlife to return. (Picture: Stefano Unterthiner / Rewilding Europe) Restoring ecosystems through rewilding allows wildlife to return. (Picture: Stefano Unterthiner / Rewilding Europe)](/fileadmin/_processed_/3/2/csm_pic_de0032d8f320200317170301_4329822cda.jpg)
Scientists and NGOs present policy papers. › more
![Arctic plant life is found at the cold climate extremes of the planet. (Picture: Sandra Angers-Blondin) Arctic plant life is found at the cold climate extremes of the planet. (Picture: Sandra Angers-Blondin)](/fileadmin/_processed_/3/7/csm_pic_372007f35320200313143232_db5b93944b.jpg)
Plants growing at extremes follow the global rules › more
![Geographic region of each Anthropogenic Threat Complex (ATC). Each colour refers to a different ATC. The legend provides information on the magnitude of climate change and non-climatic drivers (human-use, pollution, alien species potential and human popul Geographic region of each Anthropogenic Threat Complex (ATC). Each colour refers to a different ATC. The legend provides information on the magnitude of climate change and non-climatic drivers (human-use, pollution, alien species potential and human population) within each ATC. ATCs in different realms (marine or terrestrial) with similar magnitudes of climate change and non-climatic drivers are coloured in the same shade. (Picture: People and Nature , First published: 27 February 2020, DOI: (10.1002/pan3.10071)](/fileadmin/_processed_/6/e/csm_pic_c649b91a8520200312144634_a832e7b875.jpg)
Report by Diana Bowler, postdoctoral researcher at the Ecosystem Services group at iDiv, FSU resp. UFZ and first author of a new publications in 'people and nature' Leipzig. An important step in… › more
![Cluster analysis of keywords from 190 peer‐reviewed publications using plant trait data via TRY. The size of the circles and letters indicates the frequency of the keywords, colours indicate the eight clusters around the central keywords. (Picture: Glob Cluster analysis of keywords from 190 peer‐reviewed publications using plant trait data via TRY. The size of the circles and letters indicates the frequency of the keywords, colours indicate the eight clusters around the central keywords. (Picture: Global Change Biology, First published: 31 December 2019, DOI: (10.1111/gcb.14904))](/fileadmin/_processed_/9/9/csm_pic_7dc3f7eb4720200309104542_275a5de1ec.jpg)
On February 29, the number of 1 billion trait records delivered by iDiv’s research platform TRY was cracked. Founded in 2007 this open-access database has become the primary resource of plant… › more
![Dimitra Papantoniou Dimitra Papantoniou](/fileadmin/_processed_/c/e/csm_2020_Dimitra-Papantoniou-Labor_0133_iDiv2_594a422028.jpg)
The year 2020 is the United Nations' International Year of Plant Health (IYPH). Every month, one of our team members introduces his or her interest in plant health. March 2020 is the month of Dimitra… › more
![Nerea Perez Andres Nerea Perez Andres](/fileadmin/_processed_/1/9/csm_Picture_Nerea_01_41491629a2.jpg)
Molecular Interaction Ecology welcomes Nerea Perez Andres from Maastricht University (the Netherlands) to the group. Together with Dr. Fredd Vergara, Nerea will study the chemical profiles of root-… › more
![A structurally rich landscape is pleasing to the eye, promotes biodiversity and also benefits farmers. (Picture: Sebastian Lakner) A structurally rich landscape is pleasing to the eye, promotes biodiversity and also benefits farmers. (Picture: Sebastian Lakner)](/fileadmin/_processed_/3/8/csm_pic_9ddac518ce20200304122605_19cece6618.jpg)
Common Agricultural Policy reform: More than 3,600 researchers call for science to be taken into consideration › more
The Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg (MLU), the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ), and ...... › more
![Chimpanzee (<em>Pan troglodytes</em>) feeding on a wild date palm (<em>Phoenix reclinata</em>). (Picture: M. McLennan / Bulindi Chimpanzee & Community Project) Chimpanzee (<em>Pan troglodytes</em>) feeding on a wild date palm (<em>Phoenix reclinata</em>). (Picture: M. McLennan / Bulindi Chimpanzee & Community Project)](/fileadmin/_processed_/5/b/csm_pic_2ab58bf2dc20200224151830_88e252aba4.jpg)
Colourful fruits may be the reason why primates can distinguish between shades of red, green and blue. › more
![Crispus Mbaluto Crispus Mbaluto](/fileadmin/_processed_/a/3/csm_2020_Crispus-Mbaluto-Labor_0068_iDiv2_f87de567e4.jpg)
The year 2020 is the United Nations' International Year of Plant Health (IYPH). Every month, one of our team members introduces his or her interest in plant health. February 2020 is the month of… › more
![Dryland ecosystem in Argentinian Patagonia (Picture: Juan José Gaitán, INTA (Argentina)) Dryland ecosystem in Argentinian Patagonia (Picture: Juan José Gaitán, INTA (Argentina))](/fileadmin/_processed_/c/c/csm_pic_834b13a44f20200214151951_65ac9ae418.jpg)
As aridity increases, dryland ecosystems undergo abrupt changes that will reduce their capacity to provide important ecosystem services. › more
![A greening Tundra landscape on Qikiqtaruk-Herschel Island (Canadian Arctic). (Picture: Jeffrey Kerby / National Geographic Society) A greening Tundra landscape on Qikiqtaruk-Herschel Island (Canadian Arctic). (Picture: Jeffrey Kerby / National Geographic Society)](/fileadmin/_processed_/8/3/csm_pic_ecf442754520200131142640_2561154dec.jpg)
Causes of greening process more complex and variable than previously thought › more
![](/fileadmin/_processed_/1/5/csm_2020_MIE-subgroup_9936_iDiv_2_d84cc8b96c.jpg)
The Molecular Interaction Ecology group has welcomed three new group members in January. Dr. Guadalupe Andraca Gómez has started working on the InsektMobil project. This citizen science project aims… › more
![](/fileadmin/_processed_/d/d/csm_2020_MIE-group_9928_iDiv_4_7accc24147.jpg)
The year 2020 is the United Nations' International Year of Plant Health (IYPH). The year aims to raise global awareness on how protecting plant health can help end hunger, reduce poverty, protect the… › more
![In cities, the dominant pollinators are bumble bees. (Picture: Christian Müller) In cities, the dominant pollinators are bumble bees. (Picture: Christian Müller)](/fileadmin/_processed_/0/d/csm_pic_e341613b2b20200129100038_e4f20091e2.jpg)
Plants benefit from more bees, especially bumble bees › more
![Open PhD position at MIE Open PhD position at MIE](/fileadmin/_processed_/1/e/csm_160426_Nachtschatten_solanum_dulcamara_against_a_blue_sky_8251cea7be.jpg)
We are looking for an enthusiastic PhD candidate to join our research group. The aim of the project is to gain a deeper mechanistic understanding of the ecological and evolutionary drivers of a… › more
![European Peacock (<em>Aglais io</em>) (Picture: Guy Pe'er) European Peacock (<em>Aglais io</em>) (Picture: Guy Pe'er)](/fileadmin/_processed_/d/2/csm_pic_eb5d2d53aa20200120112341_dc5fe6074e.jpg)
About the connection between insect decline, agricultural policy and our own consumption. › more
![Around carrion sites plant nutrient levels are enhanced. (Picture: Roel van Klink) Around carrion sites plant nutrient levels are enhanced. (Picture: Roel van Klink)](/fileadmin/_processed_/4/f/csm_pic_082523b78220200116113429_e514812d6e.jpg)
Scientists reveal the ecological importance of carion › more
![Natural grazing is a key ecological process that helps a myriad of species of half-open landscapes, and supports natural and mosaic forest landscapes less prone to fire. (Picture: Juan Carolos Muñoz Robredo / Rewilding Europe) Natural grazing is a key ecological process that helps a myriad of species of half-open landscapes, and supports natural and mosaic forest landscapes less prone to fire. (Picture: Juan Carolos Muñoz Robredo / Rewilding Europe)](/fileadmin/_processed_/3/8/csm_pic_7b818c0feb20200117115825_e35011a138.jpg)
The rewilding of European ecosystems can help to tackle both the current climate and biodiversity emergencies. › more
![Dragonflies are one of the species groups studied in the sMon project. The photo shows the four-spotted chaser, Libellula quadrimaculata. (Picture: Yuanyuan Huang) Dragonflies are one of the species groups studied in the sMon project. The photo shows the four-spotted chaser, Libellula quadrimaculata. (Picture: Yuanyuan Huang)](/fileadmin/_processed_/4/e/csm_pic_6e56f9e67020200113134034_a16a9c09a1.jpg)
Project brings together experts from all over Germany › more