Late Holocene retrogression of forest ecosystems: Causes, processes and consequences for biodiversity
| Name: | Late Holocene retrogression of forest ecosystems: Causes, processes and consequences for biodiversity |
|---|---|
| Researchers: |
Wild Jan (co-researcher) Divišová Michaela (member in research team) Klinerová Tereza (member in research team) Bobek Přemysl (member in research team) |
| Provider: | Grantová agentura České republiky |
| Number: | GA 17-07851S |
| Realization from: | 2017 |
| Realization to: | 2019 |
| Summary: | We propose a multi-proxy palaeoecological study of the process of retrogression in temperate forest ecosystems during the Holocene, and its impact on past and present biodiversity. We design several hypotheses to infer the complex history of ecosystems that survive in the environments where the process of retrogression has taken place. We focus on Bohemian sandstone areas, where the retrogression was exceptionally dramatic, and where a number of high-quality palaeoecological and archaeological archives are currently available. We are aiming to complete these archives during the project. Our effort will shed new light on the history and temporal dynamics of these specific areas. (Bohemian sandstone areas are protected regions and it seems that recent environmental changes are also changing their biodiversity.) At the same time, the research is far from being a purely theoretical issue or a case study with only local impact. The retrogression processes influence ecosystems worldwide and an understanding of these processes will help decision-makers with biodiversity protection. |