Eco-morphological changes and potential salmon habitat suitability since pre-industrial times in the Mulde River system (Germany)

8 December 2025

A multi-temporal study investigates river morphology, connectivity, and floodplain land use in the Mulde River system, focusing on the local extinction of Atlantic salmon. The study uses old maps to identify historical barriers and floodplain land use as a proxy for pollution. First results show a negative relationship between increasing barriers counts, intensive floodplain land use, and salmon populations. Sinuous and meandering channel patterns correspond to higher salmon presence.

Please also read the press release by Leipzig University (in German).

Contact: Martin Offermann (martin.offermann@uni-leipzig.de)