I´m an ecologist with a keen interest in invasion ecology and conservation biology. Most of my research work has been concerned with freshwater crayfish (Crustacea, Decapoda, Astacida). This animal group inextricably links invasive species matters with conservation biology in that invasive alien crayfish species are among the most `endangering drivers´ of the indigenous European crayfish species.
My primary research interests are:
My doctoral research focused on introduction pathways, life histories and ecological impacts of `New´ alien crayfish species in Central Europe. In my diploma thesis, I investigated potential displacement mechanisms between an `Old´ and a `New´ alien crayfish species.
A list of publication is available here.
Currently, I´m involved in conservation projects for indigenous Stone crayfish (Austropotamobius torrentium) and White-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius p. pallipes) in southwestern Germany, including a restocking program and an evaluation of crayfish barriers to halt the spread of invasive crayfish.
The white-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius p. pallipes) is considered as close to extinction in Germany, with invasive alien crayfish being a leading threat. Given this highly endangered status, species conservation projects have been initiated.