Ressort Presse

• von Janina Balzer
• 28.01.2025

Even as a child, Julian Enß marveled at the diversity of creatures in streams - today he conducts research in aquatic ecology, is a member of the Center for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU) and also introduces non-scientists to aquatic species.

What do you research?

I study how insects and other small animals spread in streams and rivers, whether as larvae or adults. I am particularly interested in how far they can swim or fly and how, for example, their size, their sex or the living conditions in their habitat influence these distances. In the future, my research findings could help to better plan the restoration of waterbodies so that these animals can return more quickly and easily. .

What fascinates you about aquatic ecology?

My enthusiasm stems from my childhood: the village where I grew up is next to a stream. Even back then, I was fascinated by the creatures that could be found in such a small waterbodies. If you're lucky, you might see a fish from the bank - but if you go through the plants with a landing net or turn over a few stones, you suddenly discover an impressive variety of species.

What motivates you to go to the lab every day?

I am motivated by my curiosity to understand the complex relationships in aquatic ecosystems. There is still a lot to discover. Every new finding not only contributes to fundamental knowledge, but can also provide practical solutions for the protection and restoration of endangered habitats.

What has surprised you most in research so far?

In science, you are surprised almost every day. In my own research, however, I have been particularly surprised by how little we actually know about the distances that aquatic species can disperse, even though this knowledge is crucial for the management and protection of ecosystems.

How do you communicate scientific findings to the public? Is science communication important to you?

Science communication is extremely important, but is often neglected in day-to-day research. I understand that the flight distance of stoneflies does not arouse the greatest interest in everyone. Nevertheless, I believe that it is crucial to communicate the importance of such topics too - after all, functioning ecosystems are the basis for many areas of our lives, even if they often remain hidden. That's why I also give public lectures outside of the university to bring these topics closer to non-scientists. It is equally important to actively share research results with politicians, nature conservationists and the local population in order to develop sustainable solutions together. I would also like to emphasize how important it is to build a bridge between science and practice.

When you're not in the lab, what do you do?

Biodiversity is not only a professional topic for me, but also a personal passion. A normal walk is actually impossible for me - I always have to stop to look for interesting insects. I capture these encounters on camera and share them on Instagram to show what fascinating animals live right on our doorstep. In doing so, I want to raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity and appreciation for our natural world. My appeal: take a closer look when you encounter an insect - the true beauty is often in the detail, and if you take the time to look closely, you will discover a fascinating world.

Further information:

Julian Enß, Aquatic Ecology, julian.enss@uni-due.de

Event information: Julian Enß will give a lecture on April 8 from 7:30 to 9 pm at the Volkshochschule Essen on Fascinating Stoneflies - Stories of Extinction and Return in Times of Water Pollution and Climate Change.

More about the series Why I Do Research: https://www.uni-due.de/why-i-do-research/