Palaeoecology
Palaeoecology is the study of the fossil record to determine the interaction of organisms and their environment through time. Within ELD we focus on exploring past ecosystem dynamics, in tropical and temperate regions, through the use of multiple lines of evidence (specialising in fossil pollen, spores, phytoliths, non-pollen palynomorphs, charcoal, and organic biomarkers).
We are particularly interested in revealing the role of past peoples and climate on vegetation change. Palaeoecological research commenced at the University of Amsterdam in 1966 with the arrival of Thomas van der Hammen and Lex Wijmstra; to find out more about the rich history click here. The people currently involved with palaeoecological research in ELD are: