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Forest Ecology
Waldökologie
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:05:19
Abstract
Introductory course for 3rd-year Bachelor students comprising the autecology, demecology, and synecology of forests with a global overview followed by a focus on temperate and mountain systems.
Objective
Introduction to the fundamentals of forest ecology at the level of autecology, demecology and synecology, with a focus on trees as those organisms that determine the physiognomy and dynamics of forest ecosystems to a large extent. Students should gain an overview over the quantitative and qualitative significance of forests at the global and regional scales, with an emphasis on the European Alps.
Content
Introduction and overview of the forests of the world Forest ecosystem ecology Production ecology of forests Fundamentals of the biogeochemistry of forested ecosystems Autecology: light, temperature, wind, water, and nutrients Demecology: regeneration ecology, forest growth, mortality Synecology: Fundamentals of trophic interactions (forest-ungulate interactions, herbivory by insects), succession Environmental change and forest ecosystems
Resources
Lecture Notes
Relevant chapters from textbooks will be indicated.Copies of the overhead slides will be made available to students.
Literature
Kimmins, J.P., Forest Ecology
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- BSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 60 minutes
- Aids
- Bitte Taschenrechner mitnehmen. Wörterbücher sind für nicht deutschsprachige Studierende erlaubt.
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Waldökologie |
|
2 h weekly |