UCL - Ecologie du paysage

[BOE2140]

[24h + 24h] 4 credits

Teacher(s): Hans Van Dyck

Language: French

Level: Second

Aims
Main themes

Aims

Landscape ecology addresses how to describe and quantify - and in particular how to understand - ecosystems at the landscape level by analyzing biotic, abiotic and human factors. In this course we particularly focus on the ecological functioning of landscapes within the frame of habitat fragmentation and the mobility of organisms. Students need to know the key concepts of landscape ecology and need to understand in particular the difference between structural and functional landscape connectivity (in whatever application). Students should be familiar with the research methods used (empirical and modeling work). They should also be aware of the potential communication problems between ecologists and non-ecologists in practical multi-disciplinary projects.

Main themes

1) Definition and history of landscape ecology
2) Structural components of landscapes: spatial analysis
3) Habitat fragmentation: patterns and consequences
4) Movements by organisms: Structural versus functional connectivity of landscapes
5) Landscape ecology and conservation: ecological networks, corridors and de-fragmentation measures
6) Use of spatial software tools (GIS-applications)
7) Practical applications: bridging the gap between ecological science and policy making/landscape management