Assessing mire-specific biodiversity with an indicator based approach

Publikation: Beiträge in ZeitschriftenZeitschriftenaufsätzeForschungbegutachtet

Authors

  • Jenny Hammerich
  • Christin Dammann
  • Corinna Schulz
  • Franziska Tanneberger
  • Jutta Zeitz
  • Vera Luthardt

The biodiversity of mires is characterised by a small number of highly specialised species, mostly high spatial heterogeneity and a strong influence of abiotic factors such as high water table and soil substrate (peat). To assess mire-specific biodiversity, indicators that represent and value all of these characteristics are needed. In this study, we present a system of such indicators for the example of north-east Germany. Our indicators encompass different levels of mire-specific biodiversity and enable an overall assessment. We place special emphasis on high user-friendliness. The attributes considered have been well researched in the study area. Based on data from 30 study sites, we developed scales for rating mire-specific biodiversity in six categories. To evaluate the indicator system, we compared the assessment of selected peatlands via the indicator system with the assessments of experts and practitioners in peatland research and management. This evaluation showed high correspondence. We also demonstrate the use of the indicator system as a practical tool for assessing the effects of peatland restoration, and provide suggestions for its application in other geographical regions.

OriginalspracheEnglisch
Aufsatznummer32
ZeitschriftMires and Peat
Jahrgang28
Anzahl der Seiten29
DOIs
PublikationsstatusErschienen - 01.10.2022

Bibliographische Notiz

Funding Information:
The authors thank the researchers of Eberswalde University for Sustainable Science who contributed their data for sampling; and the State Forestry Department of Brandenburg for funding the project. We also thank Olivia Bragg for correcting orthography and grammar in the original submission, as well as all who provided thoughtful reviews and comments.

Publisher Copyright:
© 2022, IMCG and IPS. All rights reserved.

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