About the Laboratory
The Laboratory of Freshwater Ecosystems (LFE) was established through the transformation of the Laboratory of Fish and Crayfish Ethology and Nutrition within the Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology in Vodňany. It is part of Research Programme 4, “Freshwater Ecosystems in the Era of Global Change”, of the South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses (CENAKVA).
The laboratory focuses on comprehensive research of freshwater ecosystems at the level of populations and species, as well as their interactions and food webs, including their responses (physiological, behavioural, ecological, and developmental) to environmental stimuli. An important part of the research is the analysis of environmental DNA (eDNA), which enables the detection of native and invasive aquatic species and the study of their phylogenetic relationships. Members of the laboratory also intensively study the functioning of pond ecosystems with a balanced integration of ecosystem and production functions. Teaching university students and raising awareness of the addressed topics across society are also key priorities of the laboratory.
Research and Conservation of Native Species
- Basic biology, ecological roles, and interactions
- Genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships
- Environmental changes and their impacts
Research of Non-native Invasive Species and Their Impacts
- Detection and spread of non-native species
- Ecological and economic impacts of biological invasions
- Interactions with native biota and the environment
Management of Aquatic Ecosystems
- Principles of native species conservation
- Management of non-native invasive species
- Environmentally sustainable fisheries management
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