Geschichte und Ursachen des Röhrichtrückgangs am Ammersee (Deutschland)

Abstract

The development of aquatic reed stands at Lake Ammersee was documented by using vertical airborne photographs which were taken during four partial and five complete flights beginning in 1944. A dramatic decline of reed, especially of those parts which stood in deep water, was demonstrated. Between the years 1963 and 1969 60% and until 1992 another 30% of the Phragmitetum disappeared. Only at the east bank did the lake reed beds slightly expand. The examination of possible factors affecting the development of reed at Lake Ammersee lead to the following scenario: Until 1940 reed stands at Lake Ammersee spread and covered large aquatic areas. Only the east bank of the lake, where the influence of wind and waves was high, and banks near towns and recreation areas remained uncovered. Since the regulation of the River Ammer between 1920 and 1938 flood occurrence increased enormously. The flood disaster of the year 1965 coincided with the period of the highest rate of reed decline. The peak of eutrophication in the lake was reached in 1975. Huge carpets of green algae caused further retreat of reeds. At the present time recovery is not possible because of the negative influence of human recreation and of reed consuming waterfowl. Interestingly enough an expansion of reed has been observed at the east bank of Lake Ammersee at places were there was no Phragmites previously.