Working title: On the influence of invasive species on biogeochemical cycling in floodplain landscapes under changing water levels

Supervising scientists: Melanie Brunn, Hermann Jungkunst, Clara Mendoza-Lera

Doctoral researcher: Sierra Grange

Approach: Soils are integral for many ecosystem services, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions or nitrate leaching. Previous work revealed that Fallopia japonica (Houtt.) Ronse Decr., a widespread invasive species across Europe, inhibits nitrification and denitrification. Consequently, biogeochemical cycling in floodplain soils shifts towards greater nitrogen availability increasing the number of electron acceptors that determine the bioenergetic yield during carbon processing. Mechanistically, the rhizosphere activity (quantity and quality of root exudates) and nutrient-use efficiencies of F. japonica are assumed to control the biogeochemical cycling in floodplain soils but the response to flooding and subsequent drought in addition to anthropogenic micropollutant transfers is unknown. This project will focus on bottom-up and top-down controls in riparian ecosystems invaded by F. japonica under predicted variabilities in precipitation and associated fluctuations of water levels with implications for ecosystem functioning.

Contact: Melanie Brunn or Hermann Jungkunst

Systemlink website:here