Our ecology groups investigate several levels of environmental complexity - from reactions of individuals to biotic and abiotic factors to the effects of resources, competition, predation and diseases on the structure and dynamics of populations and ecosystems. The studied species include micro-organisms, plants, invertebrates and vertebrates. Our methods comprise comparative field studies, experiments, genetic analyses and mathematical modelling. With this multi-disciplinary and integrated approach, we aim not only to understand intricate ecological interactions, but to provide relevant information for conservation and management plans.