Ecosystem: the network of life

No organism exists in isolation – we are all part of a network where plants, animals, fungi, bacteria, and non-living elements of the environment interact with one another. Ecosystems, dynamic systems of energy and matter exchange, regulate the climate, purify water, provide food, and sustain life. Research on these systems helps us understand the mechanisms governing nature and develop methods for conserving it in the face of global changes.

Scientists from the Faculty of Biology UW conduct research on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Field stations such as the Białowieża Geobotanical Station, the Masurian Center for Biodiversity and Nature Education “KUMAK” in Urwitałt, and the Hydrobiological Station in Pilchy enable research in ecology, biocenology, and environmental parasitology, offering scientists access to unique “natural laboratories.”

Additionally, researchers study desert, tropical, and Arctic ecosystems to understand their biodiversity and assess the impact of phenomena like climate change. Organisms, especially bacteria discovered in extreme environments such as the Arctic or polluted areas, hold immense application potential due to their unique abilities to adapt to challenging environmental conditions.