Heterogenic aquatic vegetation promotes abundance and species richness of Odonata (Insecta) in constructed agricultural wetlands

Pathways towards a sustainable future envisioned by early-career conservation researchers

Scientists have warned decision-makers about the severe consequences of the global environmental crisis since the 1970s. Yet ecological degradation continues and little has been done to address climate change. We investigated early-career conservation researchers' (ECR) perspectives on, and prioritization of, actions furthering sustainability. We conducted a survey (n = 67) and an interactive workshop (n = 35) for ECR attendees of the 5th European Congress of Conservation Biology (2018). Building on these data and discussions, we identified ongoing and forthcoming advances in conservation science. These include increased transdisciplinarity, science communication, advocacy in conservati…

Biodiversity effects of constructed and restored wetlands – an ecological and socioeconomical approach

Wetlands are highly productive ecosystems with characteristics of both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. They have special biota adapted to inundation by water. Between 1970 and 2008, natural wetlands declined on average by about 30% globally and 50% in Europe. The severe loss of natural wetlands, as well as their degradation by agriculture, forestry and other human activity, has caused declines in natural wetland habitat types and specialized species, for example waterfowl populations in Finland. During the last decade, wetlands have been protected, restored and even constructed to save the diversity of wetland biota. Many studies show that constructed and restored wetlands can provide s…