Project Description
PROJECT FACT SHEET
Title: EUPHORIA - European Plant Phenology Research in Aquatic Systems
Funding: EFFS and affiliated societies (See here)
Project start: 01.01.2025
Project duration: 2 years
Project lead: Benjamin Misteli & Anne Lewerentz
Overview
Phenological shifts are important indicators of climate change and have consequences for ecosystem functioning for example for pollination. While phenological traits of terrestrial plants and their changes due to climate change have been extensively studied worldwide, there is very little research on aquatic plants, which are important for the functioning of freshwater systems. Knowledge of phenological traits of aquatic plant species is scarce and phenological changes along environmental gradients are still poorly understood. The EUPHORIA (European Plant Phenology Research in Aquatic Systems) project aims to address this knowledge gap by studying the seasonal life cycle events, or phenology, of aquatic plants across different environmental gradients in Europe. By understanding how these plants respond to different climatic conditions, EUPHORIA aims to improve our ability to conserve and manage freshwater systems.
Project Goals
EUPHORIA has two primary goals:
- Scientific Insight: To develop a comprehensive understanding of the phenology of diverse aquatic plant species across Europe and relate these patterns to environmental variables like water temperature, light, and nutrient availability.
- Collaborative Network: To build a collaborative network of Early Career Researchers (ECRs) specialising in limnology and aquatic ecology, fostering skill development, knowledge sharing, and a culture of inclusive science.
Through this dual focus, EUPHORIA aims to generate valuable data on aquatic plant phenology and advance the research capacity of a new generation of European ecologists.
Why Aquatic Plant Phenology Matters
Aquatic plants, or macrophytes, support freshwater ecosystems in many ways: they improve water clarity, contribute to nutrient cycling, stabilise sediments, and provide food and habitat for other organisms. The growth and reproduction of these plants is closely linked to environmental conditions, making them sensitive indicators of ecosystem health and change. However, little is known about how phenology varies among aquatic species or across different latitudes and climates. Understanding these patterns is crucial because phenological shifts can disrupt ecological interactions, such as pollination timing and habitat availability for aquatic fauna, and alter ecosystem resilience to climate change.
Research Approach
The EUPHORIA project will collect empirical data on the timing of key life cycle events for selected aquatic species across Europe. Key steps in our methodology include
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Standardized Sampling
We will employ a consistent, standardized sampling method to observe key phenological events in aquatic plants. From April to October 2025, researchers will conduct monthly observations, enabling us to capture seasonal changes and trends across regions -
Environmental Monitoring
In addition to phenological data, environmental factors such as water temperature and nutrient levels will be monitored. This environmental data will be correlated with plant phenology observations, allowing us to assess how changing conditions impact life cycles. -
Citizen Science Development
Participants will collaboratively design a Citizen Science approach to engage local communities in observing aquatic plant phenology. Together, we will create strategies to involve citizens in data collection, expanding our dataset and fostering public involvement in scientific research. This process provides valuable experience in creating community-based research initiatives.
Our focus will be on selected aquatic plant species with different growth forms - submerged, floating and emergent - representing both native and non-native species commonly found in European freshwater systems.
Research Network
The common goal of EUPHORIA is to bring together a network of ECRs in limnology from different European countries. This network will
- Carry out fieldwork together, creating a coherent dataset across different regions.
- Participate in capacity building workshops and seminars on aquatic ecology, research methods and data analysis.
- Develop collaborative skills through cross-border exchanges and shared research goals, thereby strengthening scientific collaboration across Europe.
By being part of EUPHORIA, you can contribute to cutting-edge research and the development of a vibrant research community. Follow our progress, join the project, get involved in our citizen science initiative and find out how we're working together to protect Europe's freshwater ecosystems.
How To Join EUPHORIA
Are you ready to join this collaborative research initiative? We welcome all eligible Early Career Researchers to apply! 🤝🏻
Apply by completing this Google Form by December 15, 2024.