Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin - Ecology

To achieve its central aim of understanding food web connectivity in a terrestrial ecosystem, the research unit investigates trophic assemblage in rhizosphere and detrital based top soil, as well as deeper soil layers. At an agricultural site with permanent C₃ crop a ¹³C signal is introduced by cultivating the C₄ plant Zea mays either as corn or fodder maize:

 

Carbon assimilation and partitioning in the major energy pathways based on roots, bacteria or fungi are assessed. Differences in resources and food web complexity allow insight in the specific role of soil biota involved in trophic interactions. By analysing the flux of carbon from input to output, quantitative food web models are developed, which is of significant importance for maintenance and prediction of ecosystem services.

 

Corn maize harvest - the team in 2010.

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