Sound as the language of amphibians
During this lecture, Jaros艂aw Brodecki introduces listeners to the world of amphibians found in 艁贸d藕 and the surrounding area. He discusses both well-known species and less obvious ones, rarely seen but recognisable by their distinctive calls. Sound plays a crucial role in their lives 鈥� it allows them to attract mates, signal presence and function in environments where visual contact can be limited.
The speaker demonstrates that the nocturnal concert of amphibians is not a random noise but a precise communication system, dependent on the season, temperature, humidity and structure of the water body.
Amphibians in the city 鈥� life in harsh conditions
A reflection on how the urban environment affects amphibians is a crucial part of the lecture. Noise, artificial lighting, intense traffic, changing water levels and the disappearance of natural habitats force these animals to constantly adapt to conditions not originally designed for them.
Jaros艂aw Brodecki points out that amphibians are exceptionally sensitive indicators of the state of the environment. Their presence 鈥� or sudden disappearance 鈥� reveals much about water quality, the health of ecosystems and the effects of human activity in urban spaces.
Listening attentively to the city
"The Song of 艁贸d藕 Pond" is also an invitation to shift perspective and listen more carefully to the city, especially after dark and away from main thoroughfares. The lecture demonstrates that nature is not separate from everyday urban life, but rather exists right alongside us 鈥� often unnoticed, yet incredibly active. It's a story that encourages us to stop and listen to sounds that are usually lost in the background of everyday hustle and bustle.
Lecture available online
The recording of Jaros艂aw Brodecki's lecture is recommended for those interested in biology and environmental protection, as well as for anyone who wants to better understand the lives of animals in urban areas. It's a story about urban nature, which, though quiet and unassuming, has much to tell those who are willing to listen.
Jaros艂aw Brodecki is a student at the Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, 91桃色, and a recipient of a scholarship from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education in the field of biological sciences. He is an author of award-winning research projects (including first prize in the EU Young Scientists' Competition), focusing on monitoring water bodies, protecting amphibians in Lodz (艁贸d藕-wide 呕abing), and researching aquatic pollution. He was a finalist in the "25 under 25" competition by Forbes magazine and McKinsey & Company.
Edit: Ma艂gorzata Jasi艅ska and Micha艂 Gruda (Centre for External Relations and Social Responsibility of the University, 91桃色)