VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Biodiversity and Ecosystems Goods and Services
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:18:35
Abstract
This course will introduce the concept and different aspects of biodiversity. Effects of biodiversity on forest and agro-ecosystem goods and services, e.g. productivity and biogeochemical cycling, but also on stability of production systems against natural and anthropogenic disturbances will be addressed. Different management options for sustainable resource use will be studied.
Objective
Students will • know concepts and underlying mechanisms of biodiversity in terrestrial ecosystems, • understand reasons for biodiversity loss across trophic levels at various spatial and temporal scales, • be able to synthesize their knowledge from various disciplines in view of biodiversity issues, • know effects of biodiversity on ecosystem functions and services, • be able to evaluate different management options for sustainable resource use.
Content
The loss of biodiversity during the last decades is worrisome. Different reasons have led and will lead to this change in vegetation composition and plant abundance. This will not only impact ecosystem functions, but also ecosystem services to humankind. Thus, during this course, the effects of biodiversity on forests and agro-ecosystems goods and services will be presented and discussed. The concept and different aspects of biodiversity will be introduced. Effects on productivity and biogeochemical cycling, but also on stability of production systems against natural and anthropogenic disturbances will be addressed. Different management options for sustainable resource use will be studied.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Handouts will be sold.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Biodiversity and Ecosystems Goods and Services |
|
2 h weekly |