Term for structured habitat elements (biotope elements) in agriculture that are constructed as towers or piles of natural materials such as dead wood, brushwood, stones, bark and organic plant material. The base area is around 1 m², the height 1 to 2 metres. They are usually built in several layers or tiers, combining different materials to provide various microstructures (e.g. cavities, crevices, loose and dense areas). The purpose is to promote biodiversity (variety of species).

In contrast to insect hotels, life towers are not focussed on individual target species, but provide multi-layered retreats for a wide range of organisms. These include beneficial organisms such as ladybirds, lacewings, earwigs and millipedes as well as lizards and slow worms. Decomposer organisms such as earthworms, fungi and bacteria also utilise these structures. Birds also benefit from the local food supply of insects, larvae and caterpillars and contribute to the natural regulation of pathogens by eating them.
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Roman Horvath MW
Domäne Wachau (Wachau)