European praying mantis: Citizens' science promotes species protection in Brandenburg

European praying mantis: Citizens' science promotes species protection in Brandenburg

The European prayer prayer: A sign of change in Brandenburg

The Natural History Museum Potsdam In cooperation with the Mantiden friends Berlin-Brandenburg, has launched a remarkable project since 2016 to explore the spread of the European prayer prayer in the region. This initiative not only brings new knowledge of the insect of scientific value, but also promotes the awareness and active participation of citizens in topics in nature conservation.

meaning of civic engagement

The role of the population is crucial for the success of the project. Dr. Dirk Berger, biologist at the Natural History Museum Potsdam, emphasizes that data acquisition would not be possible without the support of the reporters. "An annual mapping of the well -camouflaged species would not be possible in terms of personnel," he explains. Since the introduction of the new registration portal, www.gottesanbeterin-gesucht.de, in the spring of 2023, interested parties can report their finds online quickly and easily. Almost 5000 reports have already been incorporated, which shows that interest in the prayer prayer is unbroken.

The spread of the prayer prayer

The European prayer prayer is a species that was originally spread in the warmer realms of southern Europe. Her first documented viewing in Brandenburg took place in 2007. However, their spread has accelerated in recent years; It is also increasingly being viewed in urban areas and gardens, which could be due to the climatic changes. Dr. Berger describes the situation as follows: "The spread is in full swing." In the southern regions of Brandenburg, especially in the southern regions of Brandenburg, she can now often be found, while further north into areas such as Havelland and Märkisch-Oderland.

climatic changes as a driver

The climate changes that have been observed in recent decades have a profound influence on the domestic fauna. While many types suffer from the extreme climate conditions, others, like the prayer, benefit from the milder temperatures. Dr. Birgit-Katharine Seemann, Head of Culture and Museum, emphasizes how important it is to observe these changes together and to support knowledge-oriented projects. "Everyone can become a researcher," she says what makes the project accessible and inviting to the public.

easy participation in the project

The registration portal is designed in such a way that simple options are available to report finds. Interested parties can easily upload a photo of the praying mantis, select the site on a card and specify the date. Even feedback is possible if an email address is left. This active involvement of citizens is not only important for scientific research, but also helps to raise awareness of nature and species protection.

A look into the future

With the increasing participation of the population, the project will continue to become more important. The researchers hope that numerous reports will also be received this year and that interest in the praying mantis does not subsume. The European praying mantis is therefore not only a symbol of climate change, but also for the commitment of the community in nature conservation. Together we can understand, observe and maybe even contribute to a positive change in our natural environment.