Anna Villnäs

Our coastal environments provide a wide range of essential ecosystem functions and services. However, these diverse, productive environments are increasingly threatened by disturbances such as climate change and eutrophication. As a marine benthic ecologist, I explore how structural and functional aspects of biodiversity relates to ecosystem functions and services, and how changes in the environment affect this relationship. I have investigated these questions by performing field experiments, but I also explore patterns in benthic biodiversity and functions by utilizing large-scale monitoring data. Although I perform basic ecological research, I strive to make research findings relevant for environmental management and for the general public. I participate in teaching Bachelor’s and Master’s level courses and supervise MSc students.