In the vicinity of glaciers, the effect of climate change is particularly evident. Hydrology, abiotic conditions, nutrient availability and the establishment of pioneer species in the harsh environment of the newly developed river sections are studied in the project “Gletschertod und Gewässergeburt - Glacier death gives birth to freshwaters”. (Bild: L. Füreder)

A beneficial relationship to both partners: The ant Lasius niger is tapping its antennae on the aphid in order to get some honeydew (Bild: B. Schlick-Steiner)

Lake and Glacier Research Group: Tracking climate change effects in alpine lakes (Bild: R. Sommaruga)

Biometeorology – at the interface between biology and meteorology we are studying the interactions between ecosystems and the atmosphere (Bild: A. Hammerle/L. Hörtnagl)

Applied and Trophic Ecology: understanding how ecosystems function for optimized management (Bild: M. Traugott)

Ecosystem and Landscape Ecology Group: we explore diversity, functions and services of ecosystems in mountain areas at all spatial scales (Bild: G. Leitinger)