In the lectures and seminars, we teach theoretical knowledge about conservation biology and applied ecology, covering the following topics: Introduction to conservation biology as a scientific discipline, basics of biodiversity research, the value of and threats to biodiversity, conservation genetics, nature conservation instruments and management, e.g. national and international legal bases for nature conservation, protected areas, species protection and reintroduction, biotope protection and networks, ex-situ conservation strategies, restoration ecology.
In the practical course, students become familiar with applied methods in conservation biology. Working in small groups, they map selected areas of Frankfurt’s Green Belt and conduct floristic surveys to evaluate the areas from a conservation perspective and develop measures for their improvement. In this way, students acquire knowledge of key methods in conservation biology: mapping biotope types (ArcGIS Field Map App) and creating biotope maps using GIS, conducting vegetation inventories and acquiring species knowledge, conducting conservation assessments and understanding the legal framework, developing management and maintenance measures, and addressing the challenges of conservation measures, their implementation, and public acceptance.