Project description
Urban ecosystems can be important for biodiversity conservation and provide valuable habitats for many species. However, urban ecosystems are often isolated and highly affected by anthropogenic impacts. In this project we aim to analyze the value of urban grasslands for biodiversity and recreational value for the people. In particular, we investigate how the mowing regime (extensive vs. intensive) and the urbanization (location within the city and isolation) influence the diversity of spiders, carabids, grasshoppers and other taxa. We further analyze, how invasive plants affect animal diversity - and abundance - in urban fallows. Finally, we want to investigate people's experiences towards urban grasslands under different management strategies. The studies are conducted in Karlsruhe in collaboration with the Natural History Museum Karlsruhe.