Impressions from our field trip to Tenerife & La Gomera

By Eléonore Otto

The geographical excursion to Tenerife and La Gomera, led by Dr Christoph Jörges and Dr Thomas Mayer, provided an in-depth examination of physical-geographical processes and their interactions with anthropogenic influences on the Canary Islands. The focus was on the topics of volcanism, geology, vegetation and climate zones, which were analysed using selected locations and interdisciplinary methods. The selected islands offered an ideal space for a variety of links between geographical theory and practice due to their history of formation and the microclimates caused by exposure and altitude.

Physical-geographical focus

A central component of the excursion was the investigation of volcanic processes. This was particularly vivid in the Teide National Park on Tenerife, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The students analysed pyroclastic deposits, lava flows and the geomorphological development of the Las Cañadas caldera. In addition, the ‘El Portillo’ visitor centre offered an in-depth look at the tectonic and magmatic processes of island formation.

The vegetation zones of the Canary Islands were analysed in the Anaga Mountains of Tenerife and in the laurel forest of the Garajonay National Park on La Gomera. This fairytale cloud forest is a relic of the tertiary flora and is characterised by its high biodiversity and its adaptation to the humid microclimate. A ranger from the national park explained the historical, ecological and economic importance of this ecosystem as well as the challenges posed by tourism and climate change.

Anthropogenic influences and sustainable use

The excursion also focused on tourism and agriculture. The interactions between geology and agriculture were thematised at a vineyard in El Sauzal. Here, the influence of volcanic soils and altitudes on winegrowing was discussed. At a banana plantation in the south of Tenerife, the participants were given an insight into the irrigation techniques and economic conditions of banana cultivation under semi-arid conditions.

Methodological approaches and student contributions

The excursion was characterised by expert presentations and the active involvement of the students.

• Expert insights: winegrowing, maintenance and management of a national park, banana cultivation, stargazing
• Geology in practice: the application of geological field methods such as the use of a geologist's hammer enabled an in-depth examination of volcanic processes.
• Independent research: Adaptation strategies of vegetation (endemic species in Drago Park), volcanism (El Protillo, Teide), rock analyses (Phonlytfund) etc.

Conclusion

The excursion offered a comprehensive geographical analysis of the Canary Islands. Through the combination of specialised lectures, practical exercises and independent research assignments, the participants were not only able to deepen their specialist knowledge, but also develop their methodological skills in field research.