VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Paleoecology and long-term vegetation dynamics
Paläoökologie und langfristige Vegetationsdynamik
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:28:19
Abstract
Introductory course for the 3rd-year Bachelor students covering different aspects of paleoecology (i.e. the environmental and climatic history of the past 20000 years), with a focus on vegetation history and dynamics.
Objective
Introduction to the fundamentals of paleoecology (i.e. the environmental history of the past 20000 years). The course centers around biotic approaches (e.g. pollen, charcoal analysis), which are used for environmental reconstructions (e.g. vegetation, fire history). Paleoclimatic informations are consulted to discuss dynamic processes (e.g. vegetation responses to climatic change). Students should gain an overview over the environmental changes of the past 20000 years, with an emphasis on Europe and the Alps.
Content
Introduction and overview of paleoecology and Quaternary Sciences Methods of age determination Pollen production, dispersal, and deposition as an example Biotic and abiotic approaches, proxies (on the continent) Late and post glacial vegetation history of Europe Succession, migration, disturbance, climatic changes Archaeobotany, human impact, land-use history Synthesis
Resources
Lecture Notes
Handouts (overhead slides) are sold at cost priceRelevant chapters from textbooks will be indicated
Literature
e.g. G. Lang, 1994. Quartäre Vegetationsgeschichte Europas. Methoden und Ergebnisse. G. Fischer, Jena. K.D. Alverson, R.S. Bradley and T.F. Pedersen 2003: Paleoclimate, Global Change and the Future. Springer, Berlin.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- BSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 60 minutes
- Aids
- keine Hilfsmittel
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Paläoökologie und langfristige Vegetationsdynamik |
|
2 h weekly |