New method for species identification: University of Trier revolutionizes biodiversity!

New method for species identification: University of Trier revolutionizes biodiversity!

A research team at the University of Trier has developed an innovative method for studying biodiversity. Under the direction of Prof. Dr. Henrik Krehenwinkel, the new method enables species to be identified quickly and cost-effectively in water bodies such as rivers and lakes, without the need for complex laboratory techniques. This method has already been successfully tested in the Ruwer River, near Trier. Given the global decline in biodiversity, the need for reliable methods to record changes in nature has become urgent.

Until now, the usual analyzes were often lengthy, expensive and required the capture or killing of animals. The new method uses portable devices and a specially developed testing protocol. Water is taken from a body of water, filtered, and the environmental DNA is extracted from the filter. This DNA is then amplified using mobile devices and analyzed using a modern sequencer. The process therefore enables fish species to be identified without having to be caught or injured.

Contribution to nature and species protection

This development is an important step for nature and species protection and shows how modern technology can contribute to the preservation of biodiversity. The results of the new method also agree well with the classic methods. This gives researchers additional confidence in the validity of their results. The University of Trier thus makes a valuable contribution to global research in the field of biodiversity and nature conservation. The research project is led by Prof. Dr. Henrik Krehenwinkel, reachable at +49 651 201-4911, and was recently published.

Meanwhile, a pilot project to promote biological diversity is being implemented in Berlin. This project, carried out by the Foundation for People and the Environment in Reinickendorf and Mitte, aims to create stepping stone biotopes along the main green paths. Particular attention is paid to the creation of wild plant beds, flower meadows and a so-called “PikoPark”, which covers an area of ​​300 to 500 square meters.

The aim of this measure is to connect Berlin's green spaces in order to create retreats for wildlife. The stepping stone biotopes consist of dry stone walls, wild shrubs and dead wood and offer the animals opportunities to hide, warm up and hibernate. These biotopes are not only close to nature, but also freely accessible and create meeting places for the city population.

Many actors are involved in the implementation, including trainees from the OTA gGmbH training center, himmelbeet, NaturFreunde e.V., various school communities and allotment garden associations. The collaboration with the Museum of Natural History under the motto “Understanding diversity – exploring and experiencing nature” also promotes environmental education offerings.

Biodiversity topic

Biodiversity, a central topic in debates about nature and environmental protection, encompasses the variety of life forms in an area and is essential for survival on our planet. There are around 48,000 animal species, 9,500 plant species and more than 14,000 fungal species in Germany. Nevertheless, the state of biodiversity is alarming. According to reports, 35% of animal species and 31% of plant species are endangered. Due to the intensification of agriculture, the bird population in agricultural areas has been reduced by half in the last 40 years.

In summary, preserving biodiversity is crucial to counteract the challenges of climate change and agricultural crises. Strategies such as habitat restoration and ecologically sustainable use of land and water, as well as the creation of protected areas, are key. For example, the “Green Belt” along the former border between the Federal Republic of Germany and the GDR could serve as an important network for the preservation of biodiversity.

The developments in Trier and the initiatives in Berlin are clear steps in the right direction to sustainably protect and promote biodiversity.

For further information on the studies and projects, visit the University of Trier website uni-trier.de, the Senate Department for the Environment, Transport and Climate Protection berlin.de and the Goethe Institute page goethe.de be visited.