Groundwater ecology

Abstract

Introduction to groundwater ecosystems: hydrology, physical structure, physico-chemical conditions, microbial transformations, as well as the ecology, evolution, distribution and biodiversity of groundwater organisms and their adaptions.. Threats, protection and management of groundwater systems.One-day field trip to learn sampling methods and collect groundwater organisms for lab study.

Objective

A comprehensive understanding of all aspects of groundwater ecology including: Hydrology, physical structure, physico-chemical conditions, microbial transformations, with a special empfasis on the ecology, evolution and distribution of groundwater organisms. Understanding of the specific and different characteristics of karstic and alluvial groundwater systems.

Content

Introduction to groundwater ecosystems including: History of the science, hydrology, physical structure, physico-chemical conditions, microbial transformations, with a special empfasis on the ecology, evolution, distribution and biodiversity of groundwater organisms and their adaptions to groundwater habitats. Threats to and protection of groundwater ecosystems. Groundwater management. Understanding of the specific and different characteristics of karstic and alluvial groundwater systems. The course contains a one-day field trip to learn sampling methods and to collect groundwater organisms to study in the laboratory.

Resources