Biotic interactions are special in that change in one species may affect other species. Good examples of coevolution are known, but in the many cases the relations are less clear. The study of interacting species is also the first step in the direction of gaining understanding of higher levels of biological organization. Connections between research at different levels of organization is necessary for a good understanding of natural processes, not only connections downwards to the molecular level, but also upwards to the community level. The aim of our research plan is to unravel the ecological and evolutionary significance of variation in higher plants.
Research takes place in the field, experimental gardens, greenhouses, and the laboratory.
Our molecular laboratory allows us to identify genotypes and to use genetic markers where appropriate.