Changes of epikarstic systems due to natural processes and human activities
Informations
- Funding country
Hungary- Acronym
- -
- URL
- -
- Start date
- 2/1/2009
- End date
- 1/31/2012
- Budget
- 26,621 EUR
Fundings
| Name | Role | Start | End | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thematic Programme | Grant | 2/1/2009 | 1/31/2012 | 26,621 EUR |
Abstract
Our research group gathered in order to study the karstological processes within the karst ecological system. The main aim is the interdisciplinary examination of epikarsts. These investigations include the elements of the abiotic system (soil and cover deposits, the water, the recognition of interaction between soil, air and rocks). The planned surveys comprise of the effects surface and the biogenic factors (surface vegetation coverage, the changes of microbial communities) play on karst-corrosion. The primary aim is the better understanding of the territorial and local differences (Aggteleki-karszt, Bakony) of karst solution processes through new microbiological, plant-ecological examinations and the measurements of soil biological activity (the production of carbon dioxide). The aim of the study is to reveal the population density and biodiversity of microbial communities inhabiting the natural karst environments and the human activity affected habitats. Examining the abundance of microorganisms in the uncovered and differently covered rock surfaces, revealing the phylogenetic distribution and the potential metabolic activities of the most important microbial groups, facilitates to understand the karstic and erosive processes controlled by them under different environmental conditions. Changes in the structure and composition of microbial communities can also be a good indicator of degradation of karst environments due to human impacts.