Department of Aquatic Ecology

Research within the department of Aquatic Ecology (AqE) aims to elucidate how ecological mechanisms, eco-evolutionary processes and abiotic factors govern the dynamics and structure of aquatic food webs. Although we always emphasize the importance of curiosity driven research for aquatic ecology, we also acknowledge the demands from society for scientific input for nature conservation and ecosystem restoration. This more strategic research provides unique opportunities for testing our research hypotheses at the ecosystem level and for exploiting our scientific knowledge directly for applications useful for society. Our main research areas are:

• Impact of eutrophication and climate change on fresh water ecosystems
• Importance of biodiversity for ecosystem resilience
• Repair/enhancement of ecosystem services

Our research is embedded in the NIOO-wide research themes.

The department consist of five senior scientists (Ellen van Donk- Head of the Department; Wolf Mooij, Liesbeth Bakker, Steven Declerck and Dedmer van der Waal), each having their own research group. Alena Gsell and Casper van Leeuwen have their own junior research group.

Stimulated by the growing interest for research valorization, we took initiative to put our valuable scientific knowledge into practice. Two centres in collaboration with private partners and societal stakeholders were established: Aquatic Knowledge centre WAgeningen (AKWA) headed by Lisette de Senerpont Domis and Centre for Microalgae Eco-Technological Solutions (METS) headed by Tania Fernandes.

Beside senior scientists, the department staff consists of assistants, post-docs, PhD students, guest researchers and master students all working together to understand the functioning of aquatic ecosystems.