Author: Christian Ries

Full title: Spatiotemporal changes and current consistency of the Cerambycofauna of Luxembourg for purposes of biodiversity conservation and forestry management.

Abstract

The Cerambycidae is a family of phytophagous Coleoptera widespread in Europe with ~550 species. Their larvae are mostly xylophagous or even saproxylic, acting as primary decomposers of dead or senescent trees. Since some species also have moderate size and pluriannual larval development, Cerambycids are considered high bioindicators of the state of forest health, having become a target group for many research programs in biodiversity and wildlife ecosystems in Europe and abroad. Moreover, several species are protected by Natura-2000 and the law of several European countries. A small number of cerambycids are synanthropic, attacking building woods, sometimes with dramatic consequences. The remaining species are related to living plants, some having great economical importance.

In spite of this, knowledge of the Luxembourgian fauna is still at an early stage not being listed in a local catalogue yet and its biogeographical location being still unknown. The purpose of this project is to improve knowledge on biodiversity, consistency and biogeographical significance of the Luxembourgian cerambycofauna through study of the existing collections, research in the field, comparisons and statistical analyses of data. Species richness will be compared with that of the neighbouring biogeographical regions in order to investigate and understand the faunistic relationships among the different regions of the area around Luxembourg.

The cerambycid biodiversity will be analysed in time and compared with the changes observed over time in climate, vegetation and other groups of insects in order to understand the current quality of environment and individuate the causes of the observed variations. Possible ecological countermeasures will be individuated and proposed. These important environmental topics will be divulgated to the public through the first catalogue on the Cerambycoidea of Luxembourg, including description, colour plates, maps, known biology, importance to forestry, and all faunistic data and salient aspects from a historical-ecological point of view.

Status of PhD

Supervisor at university: Prof. Dr. Thomas Schmitt, Biogeography, Fachbereich VI, Geographie/Geowissenschaften , University Trier.

Supervisor in Luxembourg: Jean-Michel Guinet, Scientifical collections/Entomology, Musée national d’histoire naturelle Luxembourg.

PhD granted by Fonds national de la recherche Luxembourg. Duration: 3 years (01.04.2011-31.03.2014).

Host institution: Fondation faune-flore @ Centre de recherche scientifique, Musée national d’histoire naturelle.

Contact

Francesco Vitali
Musée national d’histoire naturelle
Centre de recherche scientifique
Laboratoire/Section d’Entomologie
24, rue Münster
L-2160 Luxembourg
phone: (+352) 46 22 40 -206
fax: (+352) 463 848

Publications and not published works

• Vitali, F., 1991. Segnalazioni faunistiche italiane, 190. Bollettino della Società entomologica italiana, 123 (1): 74.
• Vitali, F., 1995. Segnalazioni faunistiche italiane, 283-287. Bollettino della Società entomologica italiana, 127 (1): 68-69.
• Vitali, F., 1996. Segnalazioni faunistiche italiane, 309-312. Bollettino della Società entomologica italiana, 128 (1): 90.
• Vitali, F., 1998a. Nouvelle découverte de Phorachanta semipunctata (Fabricius) (Col. Cerambycidae). L’Entomologiste, 54 (6): 250.
• Vitali, F., 1998b. La figura del naturalista nell’indagine ricognitiva. Presenza tecnica, XXVI (2): 78.
• Vitali, F., 1999a. Il pericolo termiti per la cattedrale di Genova. Presenza tecnica, XXVII (2): 54-55.
• Vitali, F., 1999a. Nuovi dati corologici per alcune specie di Cerambicidi italiani (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). Doriana, VII (315): 1-6.
• Vitali, F., 1999b. Eine neue Trirachys-Art von den Philippinen (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Cerambycinae). Mitteilungen der Münchner entomologischen Gesellschaft, 89: 71-73.
• Vitali, F., 2000. Eine neue Cylindrepomus-Art von Malakka (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Entomofauna, 21 (21): 253-256.
• Vitali, F., 2001a. Description des œufs des espèces françaises du genre Cerambyx. (première contribution à l’étude des œufs des longicornes) (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Cerambycinae). Les Cahiers Magellanes, 4: 1-14.
• Vitali, F., 2001b. Vesperus ligusticus, nuova specie di cerambicide italiano (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Vesperinae). Lambillionea, CI (1): 149-152.
• Vitali, F., 2001c. Description de la larve de deux longicornes de Guadeloupe: Chaetanes fleutiauxi Villiers, 1980 et Leptostyloides assimilis (Gahan, 1895) (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Acanthocinini). L’Entomologiste, 57 (3-4): 151-156.
• Vitali, F., 2002a. Versetzung der Tribus Holopterini Lacordaire, 1869 zur Unterfamilie Lepturinae (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Entomofauna, 23 (3): 29-33.
• Vitali, F., 2002b. Acrepidopterum reseri nov. sp., a new Jamaican longicorn beetle (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Ptericoptini) – Spixiana, 25 (2): 137-139.Vitali
• Vitali, F., 2002c. Segnalazioni faunistiche italiane, 407. Bollettino della Società entomologica italiana, 133 (3): 272.
• Vitali, F. & L., Rezbanyai-Reser, 2003a. Beiträge zur Insektenfauna von Jamaika, Westindien (Karibik). 5. Bockkäfer, Teil I (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). Les Cahiers Magellanes, 26: 1-16.
• Vitali, F. & L., Rezbanyai-Reser, 2003b. Beiträge zur Insektenfauna von Jamaika, Westindien (Karibik). 5. Bockkäfer, Teil II (Folge)(Coleoptera Cerambycidae). Les Cahiers Magellanes, 27: 1-27.
• Vitali, F., 2004a. Pseudosieversia europaea new species from Baltic amber (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lepturinae). Les Cahiers Magellanes, 35: 1 -8.
• Vitali, F., 2004b. Plectromerus tertiarius new fossil species from Hispaniola (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Cerambycinae). Lambillionea, CIV (3): 453-458.
• Vitali, F., 2004c. Palaeological consideration about a Paracorymbia hybrida (Rey, 1885) relict station (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lepturinae). Biocosme Mesogéen, 20 (3-4): 137-144.
• Vitali, F., 2004d. Xylotrechus smei (Castelnau & Gory, 1841), its presence in Palaearctic region and description of the pupa (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Doriana, VII (340): 1-7.
• Vitali, F., 2005a. Vesperus strepens m. litigiosus Mulsant, 1862 new species for Italy (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Vesperinae). Lambillionea CV (2): 331-334.
• Vitali, F., 2005b. Notes about European fossil Lepturinae and the description of a new species (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lepturinae). Lambillionea CV (4): 530-538.
• Vitali, F. & J., Touroult, 2005. Contribution à la connaisance des larves des longicornes des Antilles françaises (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). L’Entomologiste, 61 (2): 64-81.
• Vitali, F., 2006a. About Aenictosoma doenitzi Schaufuss, 1891 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Scydmaenidae). Spixiana 29 (2): 99-101.
• Vitali, F., 2006b. A new cerambycid from Dominican amber and remarks on the fossil Plectromerus-species (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 1 (1): 1-12.
• Vitali, F., 2006c. About two Batrachorhina-species included in Malagasy copal (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 1(2): 13-20.
• Vitali, F., 2006d. The real taxonomic position of Spondylis florissantensis Wickham, 1920 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 1(2): 21-27.
• Vitali, F., 2006e. Contribution à la connaissance des Nethinius malgaches (Coleoptera, Disteniidae). L’Entomologiste 62 (5-6) ): 175-178.
• Vitali, F., 2006f. Taxonomic, biological and evolutionistic notes on the Spondylidinae included in Baltic amber (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 1 (3): 29-44.
• Vitali, F. & J., Touroult, 2006a. Contribution à la connaissance des états pré-imaginaux des longicornes de Guadeloupe (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). L’Entomologiste 62 (1-2): 3-6.
• Vitali, F. & J., Touroult, 2006b. Contribution à la connaissance des états pré-imaginaux des longicornes des Canaries (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae). Lambillionea CVI (2): 193-201.
• Vitali, F., Wolf, K. W. & J., Haxaire, (2006). Biological and faunistic notes on the Jamaican population of Steirastoma histrionicum White, 1855 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Lambillionea CVI (4): 661-667.
• Vitali, F., 2007a. A new species of Corticeus Piller & Mitterpacher, 1783 from Dominican amber (Coleoptera Tenebrionidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 2 (1): 1-6.
• Vitali, F., 2007b. About some sub-fossil Glaucytini included in Malagasy copal (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 2 (1): 7-13.
• Vitali, F., 2007c. Short Notes I: Observations about another specimen of Pseudosieversia europaea Vitali, 2004 (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 2 (1): 14.
• Vitali, F., 2007d. Short Notes II: About the identity of Dorcadionoides subaeneus Motschulsky, 1857 (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 2 (1): 15-16.
• Vitali, F., 2007e. Anomalies multiples chez un exemplaire tératologique d’Acanthinodera cumingii (Hope, 1833) (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). L’Entomologiste 63 (2): 87-88.
• Vitali, F., 2007f. Notes and taxonomic corrections to the Beiträge von Insektenfauna von Jamaika, Cerambycidae (Coleoptera Cerambycidae) -Entomapeiron (N. S.) 1 (2): 37-59.
• Vitali, F., 2007g. A new fossil species of Elaphidion Audinet-Serville, 1834 with systematic notes on the Lamiinae from Dominican amber (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 2 (3): 29-39.
• Vitali, F., 2007h. Short notes III: The taxonomic position of Haplocnemia sophiae Statz, 1938 (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 2 (3): 40.
• Vitali, F., 2007i. About the taxonomic status of some species of the genus Aeolesthes Gahan, 1890 (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (N. S.) 1 (3): 65-80.
• Vitali, F., & Casadio, C. A., 2007. Contribution to the Cerambycid Fauna of the Solomon Islands (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (N. S.) 1 (1): 1-36.
• Vitali, F. & J., Haxaire, 2007. A new species of Plectromerus Haldeman from Jamaica (West-Indies) (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (N. S.) 1 (2): 60-64.
• Bellés, X. & F., Vitali, 2007. New fossil spider beetles from Baltic amber (Coleoptera Ptinidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 2 (2): 17-28.
• Vitali, F., 2008a. Systematic revision of the fossil cerambycids from Geiseltal (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 3 (1): 1-10.
• Vitali, F., 2008b. A new species of Tyrtaeus Champion, 1913 from Dominican amber (Coleoptera Tenebrionidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 3 (1): 11-15.
• Vitali, F., 2008c. Taxonomic and faunistic notes about the genus Olethrius Thomson, 1860 (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (N. S.) 2 (1): 1-32.
• Vitali, F., 2009a. Two new longhorned beetles from Dominican amber (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Denisia 69: 223-230.
• Vitali, F., 2009b. The cerambycids included in Baltic amber: current knowledge status with the description of new taxa (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Denisia 69: 231-242.
• Vitali, F., 2009c. About some interesting fossil and sub-fossil Cerambycids of the collection Velten (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) – Lambillionea CIX (3): 352-357.
• Vitali, F. & Nagirnyi, V., 2009. Nemophas ramosi Schultze, 1920, a forgotten Philippine species (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Lambillionea CIX (4): 470-475.
• Vitali, F., 2010a. Diplocoelus probiphyllus n. sp., the first known fossil False Skin Beetle (Coleoptera: Biphyllidae). Annales de la Société entomologique de France 46 (1/2): 168-172
• Vitali, F., 2010b. Taxonomic and synonymic notes about some Indonesian species of the genus Acalolepta Pascoe, 1858 (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae, Lamiini). Suara Serangga Papua 4 (4): 94-98.
• Vitali, F., 2010c. Taxonomic and Faunistic notes about some Asian cerambycids belonging to the national museum of natural history of Luxembourg (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Lambillionea CX (2): 179-184.
• Vitali, F., 2010d. Catalogue of the types of the Cerambycoidea of the National Museum of Natural History of Luxembourg. Annales de la Societé entomologique de Belgique 80: 109-126.
• Vitali, F., 2010e. A new fossil species of the genus Stizocera Audinet-Serville, 1834 from Dominican amber (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Lambillionea CX (3): 340-343.
• Haller, P. & Vitali, F., 2010. Une nouvelle espèce de Pachydissus Newman, 1838 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Lambillionea CX (2) : 263-266.
• Vitali, F. & H., Menufandu, 2010. A new species of Protilema Aurivillius, 1908 (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae, Morimopsini) from Waigeo Island, New Guinea. Suara Serangga Papua 4 (4): 89-93.
• Vitali, F., 2011a. Six new fossil Cerambycids included in Baltic and Saxon amber (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 4 (1): 1-34.
• Vitali, F., 2011b. Short Notes IV. Saperdopsis robusta Schmidt, 1967: an extant Chinese species? (Coleoptera Cerambycidae). Entomapeiron (P. S.) 4 (1): 35-36.
• Vitali, F., 2011c. Un nouveau Callichromatini de la République démocratique du Congo (Coleoptera Cerambycidae Cerambycinae). L’Entomologiste 67 (2): 91–93.
• Vitali, F., 2011d. Systematic, taxonomic and faunistic notes about some African cerambycids belonging to the National Museum of Natural History of Luxembourg (Coleoptera, Cerambycidæ). Entomologia Africana 16 (1): 2-12.
• Vitali, F., 2011e. Une nouvelle espèce d’Acanthocinus du Portugal (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Lambillionea CXI (2): 161-164.
• Vitali, F., 2011f. Notes on the genus Acalolepta Pascoe, 1858 (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) from Indonesian Papua and the Moluccas. Wallacea 1: 291-297 + Pl. 40-43.
• Vitali, F., 2011g. Observations faunistiques sur les Cérambycidés luxembourgeois conservés dans la collection du Musée national d’histoire naturelle de Luxembourg (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Lambillionea CXI (3): 278-284.
• Casadio, C. A. & F., Vitali, 2011. Faunistic notes about an entomological survey to Kepulauan Biak, Papua (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae). Suara Serangga Papua 5 (3): 92-98.
• Juhel P. & Vitali, F., 2011. Contribution à l’étude des Callichromatini Africains (5e Note): les types de Hintz. (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Cerambycinae). Les Cahiers Magellanes N.S. 4 (1): 1-22.
• Vitali, C. & F., Vitali, 2011. Révision du sous-genre Ochropyga Aurivillius, 1913 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Prosopocerini). Les Cahiers Magellanes N.S. 4 (1): 23-30.
• Vitali, F., Drumont, A. & J. L., Renneson, 2012. Note sur la distribution de Protaetia (Liocola) marmorata (Fabricius, 1792) au Grand-duché de Luxembourg (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Cetoniinae). Cetonimania N.S. 3: 14-19.
• Vitali, F., 2012a. Les espèces de Meloe L., 1758 au Grand-Duché de Luxembourg (Coleoptera, Meloidae). L’Entomologiste 68 (1): 49–52.
• Vitali, F., 2012b. Nouvelles données faunistiques sur les Longicornes du Grand-Duché de Luxembourg (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Lambillionea CXII (3): 235-240.
• Perger, R. & F., Vitali, 2012. Revision of the genus Megacriodes Pascoe, 1866, a new synonym of Batocera Laporte de Castelnau, 1840 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae). Les Cahiers Magellanes N.S. 7: 1-17.
• Vitali, F., Drumont, A. & J. L., Renneson, 2012. Note sur la distribution de Protaetia (Liocola) marmorata (Fabricius, 1792) au Grand-duché de Luxembourg (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Cetoniinae). Cetonimania N.S. 3: 14-19.
• Vitali, F. & C., Vitali, 2012. Notes faunistiques et taxonomiques concernant quelques espèces de Lamiaires Africains (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Lambillionea CXII (1): 7-10.

Talks and poster presentations

• Vitali, F., 1992. The family Cerambycidae. Genoa University, Department of Zoology, Genoa, Italy 05/92.
• Vitali, F., 1998. The ultrasounds employment in the research about the materials: the wood decay. Polytechnic, Faculty of Architecture, Turin, Italy, 11/05/98.
• Vitali, F., 1999. The analysis of the wood and the concrete decay. Polytechnic, Faculty of Architecture, Turin, Italy, 11/05/99.
• Vitali, F., 2007a.  Between earth and sea, biodiversity in the Cinque Terre National Park. Insects: a park in miniature to be defended and discovered. Conference hall of Torre Guardiola, Riomaggiore, La Spezia, Italy, 11/05/07.
• Vitali, F., 2007b. Between earth and sea, biodiversity in the Cinque Terre National Park. Insects: a park in miniature to be defended and discovered. Municipality of Monterosso al Mare, La Spezia, Italy, 12/05/07.
• Vitali, F., 2012a. Longicornes du Luxembourg et changement climatique. Réunion des collaborateurs scientifiques, Centre culturel de rencontre Abbaye Neumünster, Luxembourg, 17/03/12.
• Vitali, F., 2012b. Longicornes du Luxembourg et changement climatique. Société Lorraine d’Entomologie, MJC Bazin, Nancy, France, 15/05/12.

Full title: Behaviour of captive-reared and wild-caught stone martens (Martes foina) after re-release, and the effectiveness of translocation as a managing tool.

Abstract

It is common practice to rehabilitate wounded or orphaned wildlife with the intention of re-releasing them into the wild, or to capture, trans-locate and re-release animals that cause disturbance to humans or damage property. The proposed project aims to investigate the post-release behaviour of stone martens (Martes foina) and to assess the welfare implications and practical efficiency of re-release as a management strategy. Stone martens have been chosen as subjects because they are common in urban and rural environments throughout most of Europe including Luxembourg, and they are responsible for various sources of human/wildlife conflict. Captive reared orphaned and wild-caught adult stone martens will be radio tracked after rerelease, and their behaviour and survival rates recorded under two different release regimes (‘soft’ and ‘hard’ release). A questionnaire survey will be conducted to see whether the problems that led to the capture and relocation of the wild-captured adult martens ceased after the removal of the martens from their territory; or whether the territory was reoccupied and the problems persisted. The overall aim of the study is to improve re-release protocols so as to (a) optimize the chances of survival and the welfare of the re-released stone martens after and during the process of release, and to (b) minimize the likelihood of further human/wildlife conflict.

Status of PhD

Supervisor at university: Prof Timothy J. Roper, Biology & Environmental Science, School of life sciences, University of Sussex.

Supervisor in Luxembourg: Edmée Engel, Musée national d’histoire naturelle Luxembourg.

PhD granted by Fonds national de la recherche Luxembourg. Duration:  3 years (20.04.2009 – 19.04.2012).

Host institution: Fondation faune-flore @ Centre de recherche scientifique, Musée national d’histoire naturelle.

Contact

M. Sc. Lieke Mevis
Musée national d’histoire naturelle
Centre de recherche scientifique
Zoologie des vertébrés
24, rue Münster
L-2160 Luxembourg

Publications and not published works

• Mevis L (2005) The influence of social rank and environmental factors on the behaviour of captive ostriches (Struthio camelus) in Central Europe (Luxembourg). Bachelor Thesis, Anglia Ruskin University.
• Mevis L (2006) Processes underlying the spread of a novel behaviour through a group of long tailed macaques. Masters Thesis, University of Utrecht.
• Mevis L (2007) Post-conflict Behaviour in free-ranging male stumptail macaques (Macaca arctoides). Masters Thesis, University of Utrecht.
• Richter C, Mevis L, Malaivijitnond S, Schülke O, Ostner J (2009) Social Relationships in Free-Ranging Male Macaca arctoides. International Journal of Primatology 30, 4: 625-642.

Talks and poster presentations

• Mevis L, Richter C, Ostner J, Schülke O (2007) Post-conflict behaviour in free-ranging male stumptail macaques (Macaca arctoides). 2^nd Congress of the European Federation for Primatology. Charles University, Prague.

Full title: What really counts – changes in ground beetle assemblages on the Keuperscharren in the Luxembourg and Bitburger Gutland since the nineteen-eighties

Abstract

Twentieth century anthropogenic global change has already affected all of the earth biota. One-third to one half of earth’s ice free surface has been transformed by human land use. This land cover change represents the most important component of global change now, and will do so for the next decades to come.

Especially for semi-natural grasslands in Central- Europe intensification or abandonment has resulted in a dramatic reduction of such habitats. The Keuperscharren in the Bitburger and Luxembourger Gutland present examples for the threat through abandonment. Because they are rated as historical dry grasslands (cultural-historical meaning), the Scharren in the Bitburger Gutland are protected by the Habitat Directive. This implies a prohibition of degradation for those sites.

To satisfy this claim, a fundamental knowledge of factors, influencing this habitat is vital. Carabid beetles can be used very well as indicator species to determine the stability or changes in habitats. Therefore, in this study, the factors determining stability or changes on the Keuperscharren should be defined, based on a habitat suitability model and autecological studies for the representative carabid species. Based on a microsatellite analysis, the effect of habitat fragmentation on the genetic interchange between the different sites and potential genetic depletion will be measured. Based on that knowledge, propositions for a customized management for such sites can be made. This will contribute vital information to fulfil the requirements of protecting those Keuperscharren as places with a cultural – historical meaning. Furthermore this study will provide valuable data for the endeavour to compile a Red List on the Ground beetles in Luxembourg or a Red List of the Rhine-Province.

Status of PhD

Supervisor at university: Prof. Dr. Roland Klein , FB VI Geography, faculty of biogeography, university of Trier.

Supervisor in Luxembourg: Marc Meyer, Musée National d´histoire naturelle Luxembourg.

PhD granted by Fonds national de la recherche Luxembourg. Duration: 3 years (01.09.2009 – 31.08.2012).

Host institution: Fondation faune-flore @ Centre de recherche scientifique, Musée national d’histoire naturelle.

Contact

Dipl. Biogeogr. Bettina Augenstein
Musée national d’histoire naturelle
Centre de recherche scientifique
Laboratoire/Section Zoologie des invertébrés
24, rue Münster
L-2160 Luxembourg

Publications and not published works

• Augenstein B (2007) Laufkäferzöbnosen in Weinbergsbrachen als Nahrungsgrundlage für das Große Mausohr. Dipl. Thesis. (pages? University?)
• Habel JC, Augenstein B, Nève G, Rödder D (2010) Population genetics and ecological niche modelling reveal high fragmentation and potential future extinction of the endangered relict butterfly Lycaena helle. In: Habel JC, Assmann T (Eds.) (2010) Relict Species. Phylogeography and Conservation Biology. XV, 449 p. ISBN: 978-3-540-92159-2.
• Schmitt T, Augenstein B, Finger A (2008) The influence of viniculture and its fallow stages on the butterfly diversity in a wine growing region of southwestern Germany. European Journal of Entomology 105: 249-255.

Talks and poster presentations

• Augenstein B (?) Laufkäferzönosen auf Weinbergslagen als Nahrungsgrundlage für Myotis myotis. Talk, annual meeting, Landesfachausschuss Fledermausschutz. (Where?)
• Augenstein B (?) Anwendung und Funktionsweise von Ökologischen Nischenmodellen. Talk, annual meeting, Gesellschaft für Angewandte Carabidologie. (Where?)

Full title: Spatiotemporal Pattern and other Ecological Aspects of the Muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) as an Alien Species in Luxembourg

Abstract

Invasive species have become an ecological and economic problem all over the world. In Luxembourg this problem becomes obvious particularly with freshwater mussels. This applies above all to the last population of the seriously endangered freshwater pearlmussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) in Luxembourg, which is located in the Natura 2000 area „Vallée supérieure de l’Our et affluents de Lieler à Dasbourg”. With respect to its population decline, the invasive species muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) plays an important part as a predator of the mussels. This rodent occurs in the same area and caused a large-scale damage in the last mussel beds in 2005/06. Therefore, to reduce the impact, trapping of the muskrat started in 2007 with uncertain success. To evaluate and improve the conservation management system of the mussels and to elucidate the ecological requirements of the muskrat in montane areas scientific work has to be done.

The study, which is run in the Our river system, aims at the determination of the space use pattern of the muskrat (e.g., annual and seasonal size and location of home ranges, habitat preferences, dispersion pattern) on the level of individuals and the population to elucidate the spreading pattern of the species with respect to the colonisation and recolonisation of (new) habitats. Another objective is the assessment of muskrat impact on freshwater mussels in the respective section of the Our river. Together with the collection of structural parameters of the population (e.g., population size, age and sex structure, reproduction rate) of the muskrat the study will deliver important data for improving the already running managment of the muskrat.

Status of PhD

PhD interrupted.

Supervisor at university: Prof. Dr. rer. Nat. habil. Mechthild Roth, Chair of Forest Zoology, Department of Forestry, Dresden University of Technology

Supervisor in Luxembourg: Edmée Engel, curator, section zoologie des vertébrés, MNHN

PhD granted by Fonds national de la recherche Luxembourg. Duration: 3 years (01.02.2009 -31.01.2012).

Host institution: Fondation faune-flore @ Centre de recherche scientifique, Musée national d’histoire naturelle.

Contact

Frank Richarz
Musée national d’histoire naturelle
Centre de recherche scientifique
Laboratoire / Section zoologie des vertébrés
24, rue Münster
L-2160 Luxembourg

Publications and not published works

• Richarz F, Elle O, Zimmermann M (2007) Massenhaftes Auftreten der Südlichen Eichenschrecke (Meconema meridionale) in Trier als Erstnachweis einer etablierten Population im rheinland-pfälzischen Moseltal. Articulata 22(1): 81-90.
• Richarz F (o.J.) (non publ.) Entwicklung und Evaluierung eines non-invasiven Monitoringinstruments für Mauswiesel (Mustela nivalis L. 1766) und Hermelin (Mustela erminea L. 1758). Diploma Thesis, University of Trier.

Full title: Analysis for the definition of subspecies of the common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis, Laurenti 1768) living in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

Abstract

The common wall lizard is a warmth – loving species which is mainly spread in the Mediterranean area. Its northern area of circulation spreads over the north of France, Luxembourg, along the Maas in Belgium, the south of the Netherlands (with the northernmost existing population in Maastricht), scattered appearances in the Eifel area and the Rhine area as far as Bonn. In its northern area of circulation there are probably the following two subspecies: Podarcis muralis brogniardi in the northern Eifel area and the Vennvorland as well as Podarcis muralis merremia at the Rhine and the Moselle.

During the field mapping processes for the “Atlas of Reptiles” of the grand duchy of Luxembourg morphological differentiations came to the attention of the originators. These correspond to the observations and results of the applicant during his dissertation. Accordingly, two subspecies appear to exist in Luxembourg which are only slightly separated in geographical terms, but at the same time both appear at their northern border of circulation. Expansive behaviour of the species is being reported from the Saarland, which has not yet been proven for Luxembourg. If the species behaves expansively in Luxembourg, a bioturbation of the subspecies should occur within a few years. This has to be assumed, because several new habitats have been mapped for the first time between the localities of the Luxembourg – populations with the potential subspecies. A bioturbation of the species would severely exacerbate the differentiation. At present there is still a chance of reconstructing the immigration – route of the species into its northern area of circulation throughout a differentiation of the subspecies.

All of the Luxembourg – populations are being examined morphologically as well as genetically and compared to European reference – populations, thus making an identification of the subspecies possible. Furthermore the routes of immigration of the subspecies in its northern area of circulation are examined. The intended assignment is meant to make a contribution to showing the special importance of Luxembourg for the differentiation of the subspecies of this species.

Status of Phd

Supervisor at university: Prof. Dr. Jobst Meyer, Department of Neurobehavioral Genetics, Psychobiologie, University of Trier (D)

Supervisor in Luxembourg: Edmée Engel, curator, section zoologie des vertébrés, MNHN

PhD granted by Fonds national de la recherche Luxembourg. Duration: 2 years (01.04.2008 – 31.03.2010).

Host institution: Fondation faune-flore @ Centre de recherche scientifique, Musée national d’histoire naturelle.

Contact

Dr. Franz Gassert

Vogelsang 34
D-54292 Trier

Musée national d’histoire naturelle
Centre de recherche scientifique
Laboratoire / Section zoologie des vertébrés
24, rue Münster
L-2160 Luxembourg
phone: (+352) 46 22 33 – 414

Publications and not published works

• Gassert F (2000) Genetische Isolation der Mauereidechsenpopulationen Podarcis muralis (Laurenti 1768) der Stadt Trier. Diplomarbeit. Universität Trier.
• Gassert F (2005) Untersuchung der genetischen Diversität ausgewählter Populationen der Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis, Laurenti 1768) mit Hilfe der Mikrosatelliten-DNA-Analyse. Dissertation, Universität Trier.
• Gassert F ( 2007) Podarcis muralis. Pp. 30-35 in: Proess R (éd.) 2007. Verbreitungsatlas der Reptilien des Großherzogtums Luxembourg. Ferrantia 52. 58 p.
• Gassert F, Kautenburger R, Müller P (2002) Populationsgenetische Untersuchungen isolierter Mauereidechsenpopulationen (Podarcis muralis Laurenti, 1768) der Stadt Trier. Mitt. Biog. 26: 1-14.
• Kautenburger R, Eisenbarth D, Gassert F, Langer M, Müller P (2001b): Genetic analyses of natural populations in agriculturally used ecosystems in the Trier region. Verh. Ges. Ökologie 31: 271.
• Müller P, Kautenburger R, Elle O, Gassert F, He X, Langer M, Bürger K, TU, N. (2002): Flächennutzungsinduzierte Anpassungsprozesse, molekulargenetische Veränderungen und Indikationsbedeutung von Organismen in der Region Trier als Grundlagen für verbesserte Umweltmanagementstrategien. In: Müller, Rumpf & Monheim (2002) Umwelt und Region. Aus der Werkstatt des Sonderforschungsbereichs 1: 137-142.
• Müller P, Kautenburger R, Elle O, Schmitt T, Eisenbarth D, Gassert F, Langer M, Quack M, Peter T, Rölker T (2002) Veränderungen und Anpassungsprozesse von Tier- und Pflanzenpopulationen in agrarisch und forstlich genutzten Ökosystemen der Region. Ergebnisbericht des Sonderforschungsbereichs 522 – Umwelt und Region: 165-188.

Full title: Habitat and distribution analysis of high mountain burnet moths in the Central Pyrenees

Abstract

Zygaena anthyllidis and  Z. exulans are two burnet moths (Zygaenidae) predominantly occurring at altitudes above the timberline. While Z. anthyllidis is endemic to the Pyrenees, Z. exulans has, as is characteristic for glacial relicts, a disjunct, boreo-alpine distribution with isolated populations in northern Europe (Scotland, Scandinavia) and the alpine zone of the central and partially southern European mountain ranges.

Relict populations are much more vulnerable than populations with an even or wide-spread distribution pattern. And this not only in the case of  catastrophic events, but also in the case of gradual changes such as habitat fragmentation, land-use or climatic changes impact on isolated populations. The aim of the study is to investigate the impacts of such adverse changes on alpine environments and to contribute to our knowledge regarding biodiversity conservation. The two Zygaena species qualify as sensitive indicators to changes of alpine environments as both have limited flight capabilities and their altitudinal range extends that of most other butterfly species. The Pyrenees are a prime study area as the range of the endemic Z. anthyllidis overlaps with the south-western range margin of Z. exulans.

Habitat suitability models in combination with autecological studies are conducted to identify those environmental parameters explaining the distribution of the two species at the landscape scale and the species’ habitat requirements. Based on their requirements different grazing measures are evaluated as grazing is regarded as an important parameter driving the species’ abundance and presence. Using these findings and large-scale presence/absence data habitat models will be used to predict the current distribution of the two burnet moths. Additionally a phylogenetic analysis of both species will be conducted. Furthermore the genetic structure of the Pyrenean population of both species will be analysed to complement the ecological studies.

Contact

Dipl.-Landschaftsökologin Petra Dieker
Musée national d’histoire naturelle Luxembourg
25, rue Münster
L-2160 Luxembourg
Phone: +352 46 22 33 225
Fax: +352 47 51 52

Status of PhD

Supervisor at university Prof. Dr. H. Mattes (University of Münster)
Supervisor in Luxembourg Marc Meyer (National Museum of Natural History Luxembourg)

PhD granted by the Luxembourg Ministry of Culture, Higher Education and Research. Duration: 3 years (01.07.2007-30.06.2010)

AFR extension granted by Fonds national de la recherche Luxembourg. Duration: 01.07.2010 – 30.06.2011.

1. Ecology, Syntaxonomy, Chorology and Nature Conservation.
2. Impact of climatic change on competition behavior of Fagus sylvatica and Quercus petraea.

Abstract

(1) The past few years have seen the completion of 14.000 relevés of dry site, near-natural forests, all commissioned by the Luxembourg forest administration (Administration des eaux et forêts). In the first project phase these data will be complemented by material from our own relevés as well as from relevés performed in the course of other studies in order to create a complete survey of all forest plant communities in Luxembourg. The results will be published in a monography coedited by the Musée national d’histoire naturelle and the Administration des eaux et forêts.

(2) In the second phase of the project the impact of climate change on the growth of Fagus sylvatica and Quercus petraea will be examined. Dendrochronological analysis will enable us to examine whether modifications of individual climate factors (precipitation deficit during the vegetation period) have been reflected in dilatation growth of these species over approximately the last 150 years. Sites will be selected where modifications in competition dynamics between beech and oak are most likely to occur, such as sandstone soils with a relatively thin humus layer (e.g. ranker) and low water capacity.

Status of Postdoc

Supervisor at university: Prof. Dr. Werner Härdtle, University of Lüneburg.

Supervisor in Luxembourg: Dr. Christian Ries, MNHNL.

Postdoc granted by the Luxembourg Ministry of Culture, Higher Education and Research. Duration: 2 years (01.08.2006-31.07.2009). The postdoc project runned in co-operation with the Luxembourg forest administration (Administration des eaux et forêts) and the consultancy EFOR Ingénieurs-Conseils.

A monograph on the forest vegetation of Luxembourg was submitted for publication in Ferrantia in November 2008.

Dendrochronological analysis is ongoing in a joint project between Leuphana (University Lüneburg) and National Museum of Natural History Luxembourg. Duration: 1 year (2008-2009).

Contact

Dr. Thomas Niemeyer

Universität Lüneburg
Institut für Ökologie und Umweltchemie
Scharnhorststr.1
D-21332 Lüneburg
phone: +049 (0) 4131 677-2857
fax: +049 (0) 4131 677-2808

Musée national d’histoire naturelle
Centre de recherche scientifique
Laboratoire d’écologie
24, rue Münster
L-2160 Luxembourg

Publications

• Härdtle W, Niemeyer T, Assmann T, Meyer H, Oheimb VG (2006) Can prescribed burning compensate for atmospheric nutrient loads in wet heathlands? Phytocoenologia (accepted).
• Niemeyer M, Niemeyer T, Mohamed A, Fottner S, Härdtle W (2006) Impact of sod-cutting and choppering on nutrient budgets of dry heathlands. Biological Conservation (in press)
• Mohamed A, Härdtle W, Jirijahn B,Niemeyer T, Oheimb VG (2006) Effects of prescribed burning on plant available nutrients in dry heathland ecosystems. Plant Ecology (in press).
• Härdtle W, Niemeyer M, Niemeyer T, Assmann T, Fottner S (2006) Can management compensate for atmospheric nutrient deposition in heathland ecosystems? Journal of Applied Ecology 43: 759-769.
• Niemeyer T, Niemeyer M, Mohamed A, Fottner S, Härdtle W (2005) Impact of prescribed burning on the nutrient balance of heathlands with particular reference to nitrogen and phosphorus. Applied Vegetation Science 8: 183-192.
• Niemeyer T, Fottner S, Mohamed A, Sieber M, Härdtle W (2004) Einfluss kontrollierten Brennens auf die Nährstoffdynamik von Sand- und Moorheiden. NNA-Berichte 17, 2: 65-79, Schneverdingen.
• Fottner S, Niemeyer T, Sieber M, Härdtle W (2004) Einfluss der Beweidung auf die Nährstoffdynamik von Sandheiden. NNA-Berichte 17, 2: 80-91, Schneverdingen.
• Sieber M, Fottner S, Niemeyer T, Härdtle W (2004) Einfluss maschineller Pflegeverfahren auf die Nährstoffdynamik von Sandheiden. NNA-Berichte 17, 2: 92-107, Schneverdingen.
• Fottner S, Niemeyer T,Sieber M, Härdtle W (2004) Zur kurzfristigen Vegetations-entwicklung auf Pflegeflächen in Sand und Moorheiden. NNA-Berichte 17, 2: 126-136, Schneverdingen.
• Härdtle W, Fottner S, Niemeyer T,Sieber M, Mohamed A (2004) Nährelementaustrag aus Heideökosystemen durch verschiedene Pflegeverfahren – eine integrierende Betrachtung. NNA-Berichte 17, 2: 123-125, Schneverdingen.
• Fottner S, Niemeyer T, Sieber M, Härdtle W (2004) Auswirkungen unterschiedlicher Pflegemaßnahmen auf die Stickstoffdynamik von Heideökosystemen in Nordwest-deutschland. – Schriftenreihe für Landschaftspflege und Naturschutz, Bonn – Bad Godesberg.
• Niemeyer T, Fottner S, Sieber M, Härdtle W (2003) Impact of different management practices on the nutrient dynamics in heathland (Lower Saxony, Germany).- In: Alfred Toepfer Akademy fo Nature Conservation (ed.): 8th European Heathland Workshop, Abstracts p. 23, Schneverdingen, Germany.
• Niemeyer T, Sieber M, Wiemerslage S, Härdtle W (2002) Impact of different methods of heathland management on the nutrient balance and vegetation dynamic. Ver. GfÖ 32: 129, Cottbus.

1. Ökologie, Syntaxonomie, Chorologie und Naturschutz.
2. Einfluss von Klimaveränderungen auf das Konkurrenzverhalten von Fagus sylvatica und Quercus petraea.

Zusammenfassung

(1) In den vergangenen Jahren wurden im Auftrag der luxemburgischen Forstverwaltung (Administration des eaux et forêts) ca. 14.000 Vegetationsaufnahmen in naturnahen Waldbeständen trockener Standorte angefertigt. Ziel der ersten Projektphase ist es, dieses Datenmaterial mit eigenen und bereits existierenden Vegetationsaufnahmen aus anderen Untersuchungen zu ergänzen, um eine vollständige Übersicht aller Waldgesellschaften in Luxemburg erarbeiten zu können. Die Ergebnisse sollen in Zusammenarbeit mit dem Musée national d’histoire naturelle sowie der Administration des eaux et forêts in einer Monographie publiziert werden.

(2) In einer zweiten Projektphase werden die Auswirkungen möglicher Klimaveränderungen auf den Wuchs (Dilatationswachstum) ausgewählter Baumarten (Fagus sylvatica und Quercus petraea) untersucht. Mit Hilfe dendrochronologischer Analysen soll untersucht werden, wie sich das Dickenwachstum der genannten Baumarten während der vergangenen (ca.) 150 Jahre verändert hat beziehungsweise ob sich Veränderungen einzelner Klimafaktoren (wie z.B. Niederschlagsdefizit während der Vegetationsperiode) im Dilatationswachstum dieser Baumarten widerspiegeln. Dazu werden vorrangig Standorte betrachtet, auf denen Veränderungen in der Konkurrenzdynamik zwischen Buche und Eiche am ehesten zu erwarten sind. Dies sind Böden aus Sandstein mit relativ geringmächtigen Humushorizonten (z.B. Ranker), also mit vergleichsweise geringer Wasserkapazität.

Status des Postdocs

Betreuung an der Uni: Prof. Dr. Werner Härdtle, Universität Lüneburg

Betreuung in Luxembourg: Dr. Christian Ries, MNHNL

Das Postdoc-Forschungsprojekt wird durch das luxemburgische Ministerium für Kultur, Hochschulwesen und Forschung gefördert. Laufzeit: 2 Jahre (01.08.2006 – 31.07.2008). Das Projekt läuft in Zusammenarbeit mit der Forstverwaltung (Administration des eaux et forêts) und dem Ingenieurbüro EFOR Ingénieurs-Conseils.

Eine Monographie über die Vegetation der Wälder Luxemburgs ist zur Veröffentlichung in die Reihe Ferrantia im November 2008 eingereicht worden.

Die dendrochronologischen Analysen werden im Rahmen eines gemeinsamen Projektes der Uni Lüneburg und des naturhistorischen Museums durchgeführt. Laufzeit: 1 Jahr (2008-2009).

Kontakt

Dr. Thomas Niemeyer

Universität Lüneburg
Institut für Ökologie und Umweltchemie
Scharnhorststr.1
D-21332 Lüneburg
phone: +049 (0) 4131 677-2857
fax: +049 (0) 4131 677-2808
thomas.niemeyer[at]uni-lueneburg.de

Musée national d’histoire naturelle
Centre de recherche scientifique
Laboratoire d’écologie
24, rue Münster
L-2160 Luxembourg

Publikationen

HÄRDTLE, W., NIEMEYER, T., ASSMANN, T., MEYER, H. & OHEIMB, V.G. (2006). Can prescribed burning compensate for atmospheric nutrient loads in wet heathlands? Phytocoenologia (accepted).

NIEMEYER, M., NIEMEYER, T., MOHAMED, A., FOTTNER, S. & HÄRDTLE, W. (2006). Impact of sod-cutting and choppering on nutrient budgets of dry heathlands. Biological Conservation: (in press)

MOHAMED, A., HÄRDTLE, W., JIRIJAHN, B., NIEMEYER, T. & OHEIMB, V.G. (2006). Effects of prescribed burning on plant available nutrients in dry heathland ecosystems. Plant Ecology: (in press).

HÄRDTLE, W., NIEMEYER, M., NIEMEYER, T., ASSMANN, T., FOTTNER, S. (2006). Can management compensate for atmospheric nutrient deposition in heathland ecosystems? Journal of Applied Ecology 43: 759-769.

NIEMEYER, T., NIEMEYER, M., MOHAMED, A, FOTTNER, S. & HÄRDTLE, W. (2005): Impact of prescribed burning on the nutrient balance of heathlands with particular reference to nitrogen and phosphorus. – Applied Vegetation Science 8: 183-192.

NIEMEYER, T., FOTTNER, S., MOHAMED, A., SIEBER, M. & HÄRDTLE, W. (2004): Einfluss kontrollierten Brennens auf die Nährstoffdynamik von Sand- und Moorheiden. – NNA-Berichte 17, 2: 65-79, Schneverdingen.

FOTTNER, S., NIEMEYER, T., SIEBER, M. & HÄRDTLE, W. (2004): Einfluss der Beweidung auf die Nährstoffdynamik von Sandheiden. – NNA-Berichte 17, 2: 80-91, Schneverdingen.

SIEBER, M., FOTTNER, S., NIEMEYER, T. & HÄRDTLE, W. (2004): Einfluss maschineller Pflegeverfahren auf die Nährstoffdynamik von Sandheiden. – NNA-Berichte 17, 2: 92-107, Schneverdingen.

FOTTNER, S., NIEMEYER, T., SIEBER, M. & HÄRDTLE, W. (2004): Zur kurzfristigen Vegetations-entwicklung auf Pflegeflächen in Sand und Moorheiden. – NNA-Berichte 17, 2: 126-136, Schneverdingen.

HÄRDTLE, W., FOTTNER, S., NIEMEYER, T., SIEBER, M. & MOHAMED, A. (2004): Nährelementaustrag aus Heideökosystemen durch verschiedene Pflegeverfahren – eine integrierende Betrachtung. – NNA-Berichte 17, 2: 123-125, Schneverdingen.

FOTTNER, S., NIEMEYER, T., SIEBER, M. & HÄRDTLE, W. (2004): Auswirkungen unterschiedlicher Pflegemaßnahmen auf die Stickstoffdynamik von Heideökosystemen in Nordwest-deutschland. – Schriftenreihe für Landschaftspflege und Naturschutz, Bonn – Bad Godesberg.

NIEMEYER, TH., FOTTNER, S., SIEBER, M., HÄRDTLE, W. (2003): Impact of different management practices on the nutrient dynamics in heathland (Lower Saxony, Germany).- In: Alfred Toepfer Akademy fo Nature Conservation (ed.): 8th European Heathland Workshop, Abstracts p. 23, Schneverdingen, Germany.

NIEMEYER, TH., SIEBER, M., WIEMERSLAGE, S. & HÄRDTLE, W. (2002): Impact of different methods of heathland management on the nutrient balance and vegetation dynamic. Ver. GfÖ 32: 129, Cottbus.

Abstract

The butterfly species Lycaena helle and Parnassius apollo show similar distribution situations. L. helle represents a boreomontaneous species, which showed its maximal distribution over Europe during the early postglacial. Because of the climatic changes during the last thousands of years, this species extinct in most of the earlier distribution area in central Europe. Today, large populations are located in Scandinavia and the high European mountains, while some relict populations still exist in Europe (e.g. Ardennes, Eifel, Hohes Venn and Westerwald). The xeromontaneous butterfly species P. apollo shows similar distribution history like L. helle. That species is present over most parts of Scandinavia and the Alps and disappeared from most historical habitats in central Europe.Some relict populations (e.g. in the Mosel valley) are recently in a stable and vitale stage, which represent mostly subspecies. Both species are selected to test phylogeographic and nature conservation genetic scenarios. Modern moleculargenetic markers enable to analyse the genetic structure over the European distribution area (molecular taxonomy, phylogeography and molecular biogeography) as well as conservation genetic aspects (habitat isolation, minimum viable population size, genetic depressions) in a smaller spacial scale. The selected molecular markers (detection of mikrosatellite-DNA and sequencing of mtDNA) enable us to analyse individuals, collected in earlier times. With the subspecies P. apollo viningensis, a genetic time series over the last decades will show us potential genetic depressions during the 70s; during this periode many populations of this species declined because of the intensive use of pesticides, which could lead to population bottlenecks. In the case of P. apollo vinningensis, morphometric analyses (fluctuating assymetry) will complete and verify our genetic data set.

Results

– Polymorphic microsatellite loci in the endangered butterfly Lycaena helle PDF (52 kB)
– The genetic status of the Violet Copper Lycaena helle – a relict of the cold past in times of global warming PDF (235 kB)
– Long-term genetic monomorphism in Parnassius apollo vinningensis PDF (44 kB)
– Biogeography meets species conservation: The genetic structure of the endangered lycaenid butterfly Lycaena helle PDF (566 kB)
– Final report PDF (14 kB)

Contact

Project coordination: Dr. Jan Christian Habel & Marc Meyer

Musée national d’histoire naturelle Luxembourg
25, rue Münster
L-2160 Luxembourg
phone: (+352) 46 22 33 405
fax: (+352) 47 51 52

Acknowledgments

Many lepidopterologists helped us to collect the species and/or showed us adequate sites (in alphabetic order): Leif Aarvik (As, Norway), Philippe Bachelard (Églisolles, France), Beyer (Bad Tölz, Germany), Ralf Bolz (Ullstadt, Germany), Jaroslaw Buszko (Torun, Poland), Klaus Cölln (Gönnersdorf, Germany), Klaus Fischer (Bayreuth, Germany), Danièle Fournier (Lyon, France), Philippe Goffart (Gembloux, Belgium), Yves Gonseth (Neuchâtel, Switzerland), Povilas Ivinskis (Vilnius, Lithuania), Maria Jerabek (Salzburg, Austria), Juha Laiho (Helsinki, Finland), Anna Lundhagen (Uppsala, Sweden), Frédéric Mora (Besançon, France), Marko Mutanen (Oulu, Finland), Andreas Nunner (Freiburg, Germany), Edward Palik (Krakow, Poland), Josef Pennerstorfer (Wien, Austria), Jean-Christophe Ragué (Gérardmer, France), Lazlo Rakosy (Cluj, Romania), Markus Röhl (Freiburg, Germany), Nils Ryrholm (Gävle, Sweden), Peter Sonderegger (Biel, Swizerland), Panu Välimäki (Oulu, Finland), Volker Wachlin (Greifswal d, Germany), Roland Weid (Munich, Germany), Elisabet Weingartner (Stockholm, Sweden).

Status of postdoc

Supervisor at university: Prof. Dr. Thorsten Aßmann, University of Lüneburg, Germany

Supervisor in Luxembourg: Marc Meyer, MNHN Luxembourg

Postdoc granted by the Luxembourg Ministry of Culture, Higher Education and Research. Duration: 2 years (01.05.2006-30.04.2008).

Vollst. Titel: Die Graslandvegetation Luxemburgs – Soziologie, Verbreitung und Veränderungen

Zusammenfassung

Erstmalig wird ein Überblick über die Graslandvegetation Luxemburgs erstellt. Hierzu wird sämtliches vorhandene Datenmaterial ausgewertet und synthetisiert. Eventuell identifizierte Lücken werden durch zusätzliche Erhebungen geschlossen.

Ziele sind die Beschreibung der Graslandgesellschaften sowie die Erstellung eines Bestimmungsschlüssels für die Zuordnung von Graslandbeständen. Darüber hinaus wird die Verbreitung der Graslandtypen in Übersichtskarten dargestellt. Anhand von zeitlichen Vergleichsaufnahmen werden schließlich Veränderungen der Bestände dokumentiert. Abschließend wird eine naturschutzfachliche Bewertung mit Empfehlungen vorgenommen.

Status der Dissertation

Die Dissertation “Die Graslandgesellschaften Luxemburgs” ist als Band 66 der Reihe Ferrantia im Naturhistorischen Museum Luxemburg erschienen.

Betreuung an der Uni: Prof. Dr. Barbara Ruthsatz, Universität Trier

Betreuung in Luxembourg: Dr. Christian Ries, MNHNL

Dissertation gefördert durch ein Stipendium des luxemburgischen Ministeriums für Kultur, Hochschulwesen und Forschung. Laufzeit: 3 Jahre (01.07.2005 – 30.06.2008).

Dissertation gefördert durch ein Stipendium des nationalen Forschungsfonds Luxemburg. Laufzeit: 1 Jahr (01.02.2009 – 31.01.2010).

Host institution: Fondation faune-flore @ Centre de recherche scientifique, Musée national d’histoire naturelle.

Kontakt

Musée national d’histoire naturelle
Centre de recherche scientifique
Laboratoire d’écologie
24, rue Münster
L-2160 Luxembourg
phone: (+352) 46 22 40 – 212
fax: (+352) 46 38 48

Publikationen und nicht publizierte Arbeiten

• Schneider Simone 2011. – Die Graslandgesellschaften Luxemburgs. Dissertation Universität Trier, FB VI. Ferrantia 66, Musée national d’histoire naturelle, Luxembourg, 303 p. + beigelegte Tabellen.
• Schneider S, Krippel Y (2008) Verbreitung von Botrychium lunaria (L.) Swartz (Ophioglossaceae, Pteridophyta) in Luxemburg. Bulletin de la Société des naturalistes luxembourgeois 109 : 9-15.
• Schneider S (2005) Zustandsbeschreibung und naturschutzfachliche Analyse der Liegenschaften des Bund für Umwelt und Naturschutz Deutschland (BUND) Landesverband Rheinland-Pfalz e.V. auf der Grundlage ihrer floristischen Ausstattung. Nicht publizierte Diplomarbeit an der Universität Trier, FB VI – Geographie/Geowissenschaften, Abteilung Geobotanik. Band I, Textband, 216 S., Band II, Anhänge, Tabellen und DVD-ROM. Roth an der Our.

Wissenschaftliche Vorträge und Posterpräsentationen

• Schneider S (2008) Die Graslandvegetation Luxemburgs – Soziologie, Verbreitung und Veränderungen, Teil II Einige Ergebnisse der Arbeit. XXVe réunion annuelle des collaborateurs scientifiques du Musée national d’histoire naturelle de Luxembourg, Luxembourg, 03/08.
• Schneider S (2008) Die Graslandvegetation Luxemburgs: Vorkommen und Verbreitung einiger Graslandgesellschaften. Vortrag zur XXVe réunion annuelle des collaborateurs scientifiques du Musée national d’histoire naturelle de Luxembourg, Luxembourg, 03/08.
• Schneider S (2006) Die Graslandvegetation Luxemburgs – Soziologie, Verbreitung und Veränderungen, Teil I: Ziele und Vorgehensweise der Arbeit. XXIIIe réunion annuelle des collaborateurs scientifiques du Musée national d’histoire naturelle de Luxembourg, Luxembourg 03/06.