Alma Mühlbach

My name is Alma Mühlbach and I am currently studying the Master’s program in Ecology
and sustainable development at Linköping University. My interests within biology are broad,
with a particular focus on forest ecology, vascular plants, biodiversity conservation and more
recently, butterflies. My Master’s thesis will investigate how habitat patch size, connectivity and mowing
management affect the occupancy and habitat preferences of the Scarce heath butterfly
(Coenonympha hero). The species is classified as Vulnerable in the European Union due to
fragmentation and spatial isolation, which have caused population declines across Sweden
and parts of Western Europe. In several European countries, the species has even become
extinct. With this project, I hope to provide further knowledge that can support effective
conservation and management strategies