Are sublethal responses of individual shredding invertebrates indicative for changes in ecosystem function? Investigate this question in a bachelor or master thesis using “in situ” bioassays in streams within the vicinity of Landau.

“In situ” bioassays in action (photo by D. Englert)

With this thesis in our group, you have the chance to participate in a project looking into the biological responses toward fungicide exposure in streams around Landau. The idea is to assess the feeding rate of leaf shredding invertebrates (gammarids) at up to 20 sites, where these organisms are caged “in situ” for roughly a week. Gammarids are responding to alterations in water quality by changes in their leaf feeding rate. Several runs of these “in situ” bioassays are planned throughout the field campaign. Additionally, it is planned to assess the properties of dissolved organic carbon allowing for a qualitative characterisation. The responses in these parameters are linked to the results of additional biological, functional and chemical variables determined at the same sites.

The project is planned in the field for July/August 2018; preparations should start during May or early June.

If you are interested in this offer, please contact Jun.-Prof. Dr. Mirco Bundschuh (bundschuh@uni-landau.de)