Im Rahmen ihrer Ringvorlesung lädt die Abteilung Lebenswissenschaften und Gesundheitstechnologien alle Interessierten zu folgendem Vortrag ein:
Prof. Dr. Florian Wichern (HS Rhein-Waal): Nutrient Flows at Scales: From Microbe to Landscape
13.05.2025 | 9:00-10:30 Uhr | Online
Nutrient flows across scales, from microbial communities to entire landscapes, are essential in sustaining agricultural productivity and environmental health. Microbial processes in soil drive the cycling of key nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are crucial for microbial function and are governed by the stoichiometric balance of the microbial ionome. In our research we investigate nutrient cycling at the microbe, plant, farm, and regional scales, focusing on mechanisms of nutrient retention, release, and transfer across these scales. Soil microbial nutrient composition is analysed through fumigation-extraction methods, while plant nutrient levels are measured using elemental analysis. Regional nutrient flows are assessed with substance flow analysis in combination with participatory approaches, allowing a comprehensive view of nutrient pathways from soils to agricultural production systems and human consumption. In our research we quantify the nutrient reservoir of soil microbes, nutrient release and availability to plants, which subsequently release nutrients upon decay. Especially cover crops are an interesting component to increase nutrient use efficiency in cropping systems. However, excess fertilizer application in farming leads to nutrient losses and pollution, particularly nitrate leaching and phosphorus runoff into water bodies. At a regional level, nutrient flows extend from soils to plants, animals, and humans, with potential recycling through waste management, which requires evaluation before being recommend to farmers. Our multi-scale analysis approach emphasizes the critical role of balanced nutrient management and recycling practices in minimizing environmental impacts and supporting sustainable nutrient cycles across landscapes.
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