Conservation and reintroduction of wild riverine species: A case study in the Bavarian alps
Within the biodiversity hotspot project “Alpine River Landscapes” of the BfN, a one-year study is carried out on behalf of the WWF to assess the potential for conservation and reintroduction of selected alpine floodplain specialists. The aim of the study is to recommend opportunities for river revitalization measures as well as for population augmentation and development of the floodplain species.
The study area includes the Hotspot regions 2 and 4 (s. map). The project periode lasts from October 2016 to September 2017. Among the floodplain species that are highly endangered in Bavaria, the study investigates Myricaria germanica, Typha minima, Calamagrostis pseudophragmites and the slave-ant Formica selysi.
The project includes a detailed literature research and expert surveys on the former and recent distribution of the study species. In combination with field surveys there will arise an overview of the status of the individual populations within the Hotspot regions. The results point out which (isolated) populations should be increased or where reintroductions could be necessary and useful. In this context, implemented and planned river restoration measures on the alpine rivers are included in the selection of potential areas for a reintroduction. Furthermore, recommendations will be made for the individual reintroductions, in particular on the location of donor populations as well as on cultivation and propagation methods.
The project is managed by a consortium consisting of Prof. Johannes Kollmann and M.Sc. Romy Harzer (TU München), Prof. Michael Reich (Leibniz Universität Hannover) and Prof. Norbert Müller (FH Erfurt).
Contact:
Prof. Dr. Johannes Kollmann
tel. +49 8161-71-4141, email: jkollmann[at]wzw.tum.de