Project description
A closer look at how predators help keep our world green
Predators reduce herbivore abundance and are the key to keeping our world green. This is based on the green world hypothesis that says hungry plant-eating animals would turn the world brown if it were not for major predators keeping their population sizes in check by eating them. The EU-funded BABE project will study the antagonistic and synergic interactions of key predatory groups. For instance, insect predators are very important for keeping the natural balance. In this context, the project will conduct factorial manipulations of key insectivorous predators (birds, bats and ants) to measure their effects on lower trophic levels in forest understories and canopies. The project will also study compensatory effects amongst predatory taxa on herbivore and plant performance.
Fields of science
Programme(s)
Topic(s)
Funding Scheme
ERC-STG - Starting GrantHost institution
370 05 Ceske Budejovice
Czechia
See on map
Beneficiaries (1)
370 05 Ceske Budejovice
See on map