Aims

Our aims are (1) to learn and apply concepts, methods and results of vegetation analysis, (2) to link ecosystem functioning and historical aspects to phytosociological associations. Relations between ecology, biogeography and plant communities are discussed. Students could thus be able to apply this background to country planning or forestry management as well as nature reserves management.

Content and teaching methods

We would like to initiate the students to different aspects of vegetation analysis: observations and relevés from natural or semi-natural vegetation, statistical analyses of data, synthesis and elaboration of phytosociological tables, dynamics and meaning of progressive and regressive series. Pure theoretical aspects are limited and we focus mainly on field learning. Comparisons between the different methods are important. At the end, students would be able to make and interpret phytosociological table from their field data.

Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

Training notes : Handouts

Exam :
The exam consists of a short written preparation followed by an oral presentation in the presence of both teachers. Not only will students be evaluated on their theoretical knowledge, but emphasis will also be placed on their capability to develop a critical response on the basis of the table which they have achieved.

Prerequisite : Basics in botany and systematics.

Other credits in programs