Modelling spatial processes in river networks

Two of the main current main global challenges, such as the biodiversity and water crises, are at the intersect of disciplines. This calls for interdisciplinary approaches that incorporate both biological and physical knowledge, and aim for holistic solutions of these crises. This is particularly true for river networks, which host a large but highly threatened biodiversity, and whose ecological processes are highly dependent on hydrological dynamics.

We are interested in spatial processes and physical-biological interactions taking place in river networks, merging concepts from ecology, hydrology and biogeochemistry. In particular, we investigate how river networks shape habitats and their characteristics, dictate dispersal patterns and drive transport of nutrients. We also focus on modelling hydrological transport of environmental DNA to reconstruct species distribution and biodiversity patterns.

Head of group: Dr. Luca Carraro

Research themes

• Ecohydrology
• Modelling eDNA transport in rivers
• Freshwater environmental and ecosystem modelling
• Metapopulation and metacommunity models
• Stream temperature and nutrient dynamics