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751-5125-00L 2 Credits DS , MSC D-USYS
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Stable Isotope Ecology of Terrestrial Ecosystems

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Nina Buchmann, Dr. Roland Anton Werner
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:05:29

Abstract

This course provides an introduction to the applicability of stable isotopes (carbon 13C, nitrogen 15N, oxygen 18O and water 2H), but also radiocarbon (14C) to ecological research questions. Topics will focus on determination of origin of pools and fluxes in ecosystems, partitioning of composite fluxes and integration of processes spatially and temporally.

Objective

Students will know the basics about the use of stable isotopes in studies on plants, soils, water and trace gases, will be familiar with current concepts and recent results in stable isotope ecology, and know how to combine classical and modern techniques to solve ecophysiological or ecological problems.

Content

The analyses of stable isotopes often provide insights into ecophysiological and ecological processes that otherwise would not be available with classical methods only. Stable isotopes proved useful to determine origin of pools and fluxes in ecosystems, to partition composite fluxes and to integrate processes spatially and temporally. This course will provide an introduction to the applicability of stable isotopes, but also radiocarbon, to ecological research questions. Topics will focus on carbon (13C), nitrogen (15N), oxygen (18O) and water (2H) at natural abundance levels and radiocarbon (14C). Lectures will be supplemented by short presentations by students and by computer exercises.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Handouts will be sold.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DS , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Stable Isotope Ecology of Terrestrial Ecosystems
3-4 Labortage in Woche 6 (Februar)
  • Mon 10:15-12:00 (LFW C 11)
2 h weekly

Offered In