Effects of beaver colonization on lowland river ecosystems of the FFH-LRT 3260 and their fish communities

The proposed project aims to generate well-founded data on the ecological interactions and potential conflicts of interest between beaver reintroductions and other conservation priorities [habitats (LRT 3260) / species with high conservation status and high requirements regarding water flow, substrate, and ecological connectivity (Habitats Directive, Annex II/V; BArtSchV)]. The following hypotheses, derived from ecological relationships, will be examined in greater detail:

• There is a positive correlation between the use of land in the immediate vicinity of water bodies and the number of beaver colonies;

• Beaver colonies lead to changes in rhithral watercourses of LRT 3260 as well as in the fish community at the water body level, with rheophilic and lithophilic fish species, as well as migratory fish species, in particular, showing a decline in abundance;

• Beaver settlement areas have a negative effect on the reproduction of rheophilic fish species typical of the habitat.
   

A report on the first phase of the project is already available and can be found and viewed in our publication database

(Note: the report is available in German language only, and is a largely accessible document, but not fully accessible)

WWF Germany has created a video clip about beavers titled: “Beavers and Their Dams”—just follow the link to watch it (German language only)

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