During the period from March 1st to May 31st, 2023, I completed a three-month internship at the University of Cologne, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institute of Zoology – General Ecology, under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Jost Borcherding and Dr. Lisa Heermann.
I conducted a series of laboratory experiments at the field Research Station aimed to delve into predator-prey interactions, specifically exploring the potential successful control exerted by native juvenile burbot Lota lota on non-indigenous invasive gobiid species round goby Neogobius melanostomus (Pallas, 1814) and a relatively new Caucasian dwarf goby Knipowitschia caucasica (Berg, 1916), both prevalent in the Lower Rhine and its surrounding waters.
The additional key focus of our investigation sought to observe dwarf goby activity, behaviour, and habitat preferences and the influence of local predation risk on these aspects, together with potential anti-predatory responses, since information about this new alien Gobiidae species is still limited.
In addition to the laboratory experiments, I actively engaged in various fieldwork and activities associated with diverse research projects and collaborations led by the Institute. This involvement expanded my hands-on experience in other freshwater fish sampling techniques, including beach seine fishing and gill net sampling. The knowledge and practical skills gained during my stay at the host institute are actively applied in my current laboratory work and are anticipated to contribute substantially to future research endeavours.
