S (Sina) Bohm MSc BSc
PromovendusI seek to understand the dynamics of wild plant populations in order to increase the effectiveness of nature conservation and recovery. A main focus of my research lays on reintroductions of endangered plant species in the Netherlands. Rare plant species are often scattered throughout the Dutch landscape resulting in small, isolated populations. These populations are not only prone to inbreeding and genetic drift, they also have very small capacities to reach new suitable habitat. We can assist such rare species by reintroducing them in restored areas they would not reach by themselves as a result of fragmentation. Previous to any reintroduction, we need to investigate genetic structures, environmental preferences, local adaptations, historic ranges, and bottlenecks limiting present populations to increase reintroduction success. Also, it is important to consider the effects of the reintroduced population on co-occurring species and ecosystem functioning. By including both intra- and interspecific processes to reintroduction science, I aim to broaden the perspective in this new research field to find new frameworks for biodiversity conservation and recovery.