to contribute to the understanding und identification of abiotic and biotic interactions that are most relevant at the landscape ecosystem scale. Thus, we are most interested in emerging effects between plants and soils at smaller scales and between individual ecosystems at larger scales. Special emphasis is put on the interface between terrestrial and aquatic systems as holds true for the entire institute. This research group is committed to following problem oriented approaches always considering the human dimension. The impact of land use and land use change is a key motivation of our research that entails biogeochemical and biogeographical aspects. Specific personal kinds of expertise are best summarized with the terms (a) greenhouse gases and (b) invasive plant species, both with a focus on Europe. Currently we are additionally involved in research in Brazil and Peru.