Entry requirements

60 credit points in the field of technology/science

Learning outcomes

The course will give in-depth knowledge of patterns and processes in peatlands, including knowledge about human impacts and restoration techniques. After the course the student should be able to

• describe ecological processes in peatlands, the development of peatlands and their importance for conservation and global carbon balance
• identify peatland plants (bryophytes in particular) and their use for monitoring purposes, and techniques for inventories for the European Natura 2000 habitat network
• classify peatlands in the field and identify biotic and abiotic factors that govern structure and species composition.

Content

The concepts wetland, peatland and mire. Overview of the main peatland ecosystems: swamp, fen, and bog and the main environmental gradients. Diversity of life, with focus on adaptations to the peatland habitat. The biology of the main peat former, Sphagnum. The physical and chemical characteristics of peat, including nutrient dynamics and peatland hydrology. The peat as an archive of postglacial climate and vegetation development. Peatland patterns and landforms around the world. The role of peatlands in the global carbon cycle and global change. Consequences of draining and afforestations. Conservation aspects, such as species inventory techniques, strategies for conservation and methods for restoration.

Instruction

Lectures, field practicals on inventory technique, species identification practicals. Excursions to demonstrate main peatland types and patterns.

Assessment

A passing grade for the entire course requires participation in obligatory field practicals (2 credits) and passed written examination covering theory and species identification (3 credits)