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Keywords = Natura 2000 habitats

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22 pages, 2531 KiB  
Article
Canopy Cover Drives Odonata Diversity and Conservation Prioritization in the Protected Wetland Complex of Thermaikos Gulf (Greece)
by Dimitris Kaltsas, Lydia Alvanou, Ioannis Ekklisiarchos, Dimitrios I. Raptis and Dimitrios N. Avtzis
Forests 2025, 16(7), 1181; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16071181 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 238
Abstract
Odonata constitute an important invertebrate group that is strongly dependent on water conditions and sensitive to habitat disturbances, rendering them reliable indicators of habitat quality of both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. We studied the compositional and diversity patterns of Odonates in total, and [...] Read more.
Odonata constitute an important invertebrate group that is strongly dependent on water conditions and sensitive to habitat disturbances, rendering them reliable indicators of habitat quality of both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. We studied the compositional and diversity patterns of Odonates in total, and separately for the two suborders (Zygoptera, Anisoptera) in relation to geographic and ecological parameters at the riparian zone of four rivers and one canal within the Axios Delta National Park and the Natura 2000 SAC GR1220002 in northern Greece, using the line transect technique. In total, 6252 individuals belonging to 28 species were identified. The compositional and diversity patterns were significantly different between agricultural and natural sites. Odonata assemblages at croplands were comparatively poorer, dominated by a few, widely distributed, taxonomically proximal species, tolerant to environmental changes, as a result of modifications and consequent alterations of abiotic conditions at croplands, which also led to higher local contribution to β-diversity and species turnover. The absence of several percher, endophytic, and threatened species from agricultural sites led to significantly lower diversity, as a result of environmental filtering due to ecophysiological restrictions. Taxonomic and functional diversity, uniqueness, and Dragonfly Biotic Index (DBI) were significantly higher in riparian forests, due to the sensitivity of damselflies to dehydration, and the avoidance of habitat loss and extreme temperatures by dragonflies, which prefer natural shelters near the ecotone. The newly introduced Conservation Value Index (CVI) revealed 21 conservation hotspots of Odonata (14 at canopy cover sites), widely distributed within the borders of NATURA 2000 SAC GR1220002. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Biodiversity)
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17 pages, 15945 KiB  
Article
Mapping Subtidal Marine Forests in the Mediterranean Sea Using Copernicus Contributing Mission
by Dimitris Poursanidis and Stelios Katsanevakis
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(14), 2398; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17142398 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 402
Abstract
Mediterranean subtidal reefs host ecologically significant habitats, including forests of Cystoseira spp., which form complex benthic communities within the photic zone. These habitats are increasingly degraded due to climate change, invasive species, and anthropogenic pressures, particularly in the eastern Mediterranean. In support of [...] Read more.
Mediterranean subtidal reefs host ecologically significant habitats, including forests of Cystoseira spp., which form complex benthic communities within the photic zone. These habitats are increasingly degraded due to climate change, invasive species, and anthropogenic pressures, particularly in the eastern Mediterranean. In support of habitat monitoring under the EU Natura 2000 directive and the Nature Restoration Regulation, this study investigates the utility of high-resolution satellite remote sensing for mapping subtidal brown algae and associated benthic classes. Using imagery from the SuperDove sensor (Planet Labs, San Francisco, CA, USA), we developed an integrated mapping workflow at the Natura 2000 site GR2420009. Aquatic reflectance was derived using ACOLITE v.20250114.0, and both supervised classification and spectral unmixing were implemented in the EnMAP Toolbox v.3.16.3 within QGIS. A Random Forest classifier (100 fully grown trees) achieved high thematic accuracy across all habitat types (F1 scores: 0.87–1.00), with perfect classification of shallow soft bottoms and strong performance for Cystoseira s.l. (F1 = 0.94) and Seagrass (F1 = 0.93). Spectral unmixing further enabled quantitative estimation of fractional cover, with high predictive accuracy for deep soft bottoms (R2 = 0.99; RPD = 18.66), shallow soft bottoms (R2 = 0.98; RPD = 8.72), Seagrass (R2 = 0.88; RPD = 3.01) and Cystoseira s.l. (R2 = 0.82; RPD = 2.37). The lower performance for rocky reefs with other cover (R2 = 0.71) reflects spectral heterogeneity and shadowing effects. The results highlight the effectiveness of combining classification and unmixing approaches for benthic habitat mapping using CubeSat constellations, offering scalable tools for large-area monitoring and ecosystem assessment. Despite challenges in field data acquisition, the presented framework provides a robust foundation for remote sensing-based conservation planning in optically shallow marine environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Ecology and Biodiversity by Remote Sensing Technology)
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17 pages, 2473 KiB  
Article
Forests, Nature Protection, and Wild Forested Areas: Premises for Maintaining Nursery Populations and Habitats in Poland
by Damian Łowicki and Katarzyna Fagiewicz
Forests 2025, 16(7), 1121; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16071121 - 7 Jul 2025
Viewed by 307
Abstract
Habitat fragmentation is one of the most pressing issues impacting biodiversity. This concern is highlighted in various regional documents, including, i.a., the Convention on Biological Diversity and Polish Program for the Protection and Sustainable Use of Biological Diversity. Despite the critical importance of [...] Read more.
Habitat fragmentation is one of the most pressing issues impacting biodiversity. This concern is highlighted in various regional documents, including, i.a., the Convention on Biological Diversity and Polish Program for the Protection and Sustainable Use of Biological Diversity. Despite the critical importance of biodiversity, large forested areas with natural vegetation are often neither recognized nor protected. In this article, we introduce the concept of wilderness areas for forested regions in Poland, which we refer to as wild forested areas (WFAs). The designation of WFAs is based on three criteria: undisturbedness, naturalness, and size. A total of 34 WFAs have been identified in Poland, covering 0.8% of the country’s territory and accounting for 2.7% of its forest area. The findings reveal that all WFAs are located within Natura 2000 areas; however, only half are part of national parks, and just 2.5% are protected by nature reserves. The results suggest that some forest complexes in Poland possess significant potential for biodiversity protection and can serve as a foundation for establishing effective conservation measures. While this study is specific to Poland, the proposed methodology can be applied globally. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wildlife in Forest Ecosystems: Game Damage vs. Conservation)
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17 pages, 630 KiB  
Article
Mining Complex Ecological Patterns in Protected Areas: An FP-Growth Approach to Conservation Rule Discovery
by Ioan Daniel Hunyadi and Cristina Cismaș
Entropy 2025, 27(7), 725; https://doi.org/10.3390/e27070725 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 235
Abstract
This study introduces a data-driven framework for enhancing the sustainable management of fish species in Romania’s Natura 2000 protected areas through ecosystem modeling and association rule mining (ARM). Drawing on seven years of ecological monitoring data for 13 fish species of ecological and [...] Read more.
This study introduces a data-driven framework for enhancing the sustainable management of fish species in Romania’s Natura 2000 protected areas through ecosystem modeling and association rule mining (ARM). Drawing on seven years of ecological monitoring data for 13 fish species of ecological and socio-economic importance, we apply the FP-Growth algorithm to extract high-confidence co-occurrence patterns among 19 codified conservation measures. By encoding expert habitat assessments into binary transactions, the analysis revealed 44 robust association rules, highlighting interdependent management actions that collectively improve species resilience and habitat conditions. These results provide actionable insights for integrated, evidence-based conservation planning. The approach demonstrates the interpretability, scalability, and practical relevance of ARM in biodiversity management, offering a replicable method for supporting adaptive ecological decision making across complex protected area networks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Multidisciplinary Applications)
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22 pages, 1846 KiB  
Article
Sacrificing Wilderness for Renewables? Land Artificialization from Inadequate Spatial Planning of Wind Energy in Evvoia, Greece
by Vassiliki Kati, Konstantina Spiliopoulou, Apostolis Stefanidis and Christina Kassara
Land 2025, 14(6), 1296; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14061296 - 17 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1871
Abstract
The REPowerEU Plan calls for a massive speed-up of renewable energy, which can undermine nature conservation. We explored the impact of an industrial-scale wind power project planned inside a Natura 2000 site (Special Protected Areas for birds) in the mountains of Central Evvoia, [...] Read more.
The REPowerEU Plan calls for a massive speed-up of renewable energy, which can undermine nature conservation. We explored the impact of an industrial-scale wind power project planned inside a Natura 2000 site (Special Protected Areas for birds) in the mountains of Central Evvoia, in Greece. If approved, the project could cause significant land artificialization, land take, and habitat fragmentation, having a land take intensity of 4.5 m2/MWh. An important part of forested land (14%) would be artificialized. The wilderness character would sharply decline from 49% to 4%, with a large roadless area (51.4 km2) shrinking by 77% and a smaller one (16.1 km2) lost. The project greatly overlaps with the Natura 2000 network (97%), a regional Key Biodiversity Area and Important Bird Area (84%), and a potential Global Key Biodiversity Area (27%). It might affect 23 globally threatened and 44 endemic species. This case study is a typical example of the poor implementation of the Natura 2000 and EIA legislation and highlights their recurring inability to prevent harmful human activities across Europe from affecting protected species of European interest and ecosystem functions. We conclude with policy recommendations to help increase renewables’ sustainability and minimize land artificialization in the EU. Full article
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26 pages, 9089 KiB  
Article
Hydrological Effects of the Planned Power Project and Protection of the Natura 2000 Areas: A Case Study of the Adamów Power Plant
by Tomasz Kałuża, Ireneusz Laks, Jolanta Kanclerz, Ewelina Janicka-Kubiak, Mateusz Hämmerling and Stanisław Zaborowski
Energies 2025, 18(12), 3079; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18123079 - 11 Jun 2025
Viewed by 399
Abstract
The planned construction of a steam–gas unit at the Adamów Power Plant raises questions about the potential hydrological impact on the neighboring Natura 2000 protected areas, particularly the Middle Warta Valley (PLB300002) and the Jeziorsko Reservoir (PLB100002). These ecosystems play a key role [...] Read more.
The planned construction of a steam–gas unit at the Adamów Power Plant raises questions about the potential hydrological impact on the neighboring Natura 2000 protected areas, particularly the Middle Warta Valley (PLB300002) and the Jeziorsko Reservoir (PLB100002). These ecosystems play a key role in protecting bird habitats and biodiversity, and any changes in water management can affect their condition. This paper presents a detailed hydrological analysis of the Warta River and Jeziorsko Reservoir for 2018–2022, with a focus on low-flow periods. The Peak Over Threshold (POT) method and Q70% threshold were used to identify the frequency, length, and seasonality of low-flow periods in three water gauge profiles: Uniejów, Koło, and Sławsk. The longest recorded low-flow episode lasted 167 days. The permissible water intake for the investment (up to 0.8 m3∙s–1) is in accordance with the applicable permits and is used mainly for cooling purposes. Calculations indicate that under maximum intake conditions, the water level reduction in the Jeziorsko Reservoir would be between 1.7 and 2.0 mm∙day–1, depending on the current level of filling. Such changes do not disrupt the natural functions of the reservoir under typical conditions, although during prolonged droughts, they can pose a threat to protected areas. An analysis of the impact of periodic water overflow into the Kiełbaska Duża River indicates its negligible effect on water levels in the reservoir and flows in the Warta River. The results underscore the need for the integrated management of water and power resources, considering the increasing variability in hydrological conditions. Ensuring a balance between industrial needs and environmental protection is key to minimizing the potential impact of investments and implementing sustainable development principles. Full article
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13 pages, 5283 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Conservation Priority of Alpine Carabid Beetle Communities by Mapping the Index of Natural Value (INV) in Natura 2000 Habitats in the Brenta Dolomites (Italian Alps)
by Emiliano Peretti, Marco Armanini, Roberta Chirichella, Andrea Mustoni and Mauro Gobbi
Insects 2025, 16(6), 602; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16060602 - 7 Jun 2025
Viewed by 709
Abstract
The Dolomites (European Alps) are a UNESCO World Heritage Site known to harbor distinctive communities of carabid beetles adapted to high-altitude environments, whose composition is shaped mainly by landform and habitat type. We aimed to assess the conservation priority of carabid beetle communities [...] Read more.
The Dolomites (European Alps) are a UNESCO World Heritage Site known to harbor distinctive communities of carabid beetles adapted to high-altitude environments, whose composition is shaped mainly by landform and habitat type. We aimed to assess the conservation priority of carabid beetle communities in the Brenta mountain group (Italy). We used the Index of Natural Value (INV), based on the relative frequencies and abundances of highly specialized Alpine species, as a proxy of the sensitivity to disturbance, and, thus, to the vulnerability of the carabid beetle communities to extinction. We used information on Natura 2000 habitat cover to produce a map for identifying areas of the Brenta Dolomites inhabited by the carabid beetle communities most relevant for conservation. We also report on the main differences in terms of species composition between the investigated communities. We found a positive correlation between vulnerability and altitude. Specifically, the most vulnerable communities were recorded in high-altitude habitat types (limestone cliffs and pavements, calcareous and calcschist screes, and alpine calcareous grasslands). Alkaline fens resulted in having the least vulnerable community, while those in all other habitats (bush and forests) were found to have intermediate levels of vulnerability. Full article
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23 pages, 3126 KiB  
Article
The LIFE STREAMS Project for the Recovery of the Native Mediterranean Trout in Six Italian Pilot Areas: Planning and Adoption of Conservation Actions
by Antonella Carosi, Lorenzo Talarico, Claudia Greco, Antonia Vecchiotti, Susanna D’Antoni, Alessandro Longobardi, Stefano Macchio, Marco Carafa, Paolo Casula, Antonio Perfetti, Paola Amprimo, Alessandro Rossetti, Federico Morandi, Davide Alberti, Pietro Serroni, Stefano Raimondi, Diego Mattioli, Nadia Mucci and Massimo Lorenzoni
Biology 2025, 14(5), 573; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14050573 - 20 May 2025
Viewed by 836
Abstract
The Mediterranean trout (currently referred to as Salmo ghigii for Corsican and Italian-native populations) is listed as Endangered in the IUCN Red List, due to fragmented distribution and declining populations across its whole range, and is included in Annex II of the European [...] Read more.
The Mediterranean trout (currently referred to as Salmo ghigii for Corsican and Italian-native populations) is listed as Endangered in the IUCN Red List, due to fragmented distribution and declining populations across its whole range, and is included in Annex II of the European Habitat Directive. The widespread genome introgression from the invasive Atlantic trout (Salmo trutta), overexploitation, and habitat alterations represent major threats to the persistence of native populations. The LIFE18NAT/IT/000931 STREAMS project aims to enhance conservation status of Mediterranean trout in 6 Italian pilot areas (Maiella, Sibillini Mountains, Casentino Forests and Pollino National Parks, Montemarcello-Magra-Vara Regional Park, and Sardinia with five sites of the Natura 2000 Network), and in 19 transferability areas covering almost the whole Italian species range. To achieve this, the following conservation strategies were implemented: (i) the identification of residual native populations; (ii) eradication of entirely Atlantic-exotic populations and removal of hybrids in admixed populations; (iii) restocking/reintroduction of native populations; (iv) monitoring/improving the Mediterranean trout habitats quality; (v) production of the “Guidelines for the conservation and management of native Mediterranean trout and its habitat”; and (vi) the prevention of illegal stocking. Here, we present the project rationale, major outcomes on demographic and genetic characterization of wild populations, and summary results from conservation actions. Full article
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19 pages, 1961 KiB  
Article
Barriers to Effective Management of Mediterranean Coastal Lagoons Following Key European Union Directives: Perceptions of Managers of Natura 2000 Lagoon Sites in South France
by Nathalie Boutin, Louise Chourot, Jean-Claude Raynal and Rutger De Wit
Environments 2025, 12(5), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12050137 - 25 Apr 2025
Viewed by 511
Abstract
This paper focuses on the challenges for the co-implementation of two European Union Directives, i.e., the Habitats Directive and the Water Framework Directive, for the management of Mediterranean coastal lagoons as protected areas. Many of these ecosystems are included in the Natura 2000 [...] Read more.
This paper focuses on the challenges for the co-implementation of two European Union Directives, i.e., the Habitats Directive and the Water Framework Directive, for the management of Mediterranean coastal lagoons as protected areas. Many of these ecosystems are included in the Natura 2000 network, the largest network of protected areas in the world. Based on semi-structured interviews with 45 stakeholders from 41 institutions, the study identified five main types of perceived barriers: economic, political and socio-cultural, historical, administrative, and ecological. The study confirmed that the co-implementation of the Habitats Directive (HD) and the Water Framework Directive (WFD) in Mediterranean coastal lagoons generated multiple and interrelated barriers. Beyond their regulatory complexity, these EU directives confronted managers with deep operational challenges. First, mismatches between administrative and ecological boundaries weakened their ability to control key ecological processes such as nutrient flows. Second, the proliferation of indicators, often perceived as disconnected from local realities, reinforced the critique of a management by numbers approach. Finally, the widespread use of regulatory exemptions, while intended to adapt EU rules to local contexts, frequently fueled persistent mistrust among stakeholders, especially in historically degraded environments. These challenges were further exacerbated by a siloed organization of administrations, limiting coordination and adaptive management. Overall, these findings call for more integrated governance frameworks, a more critical and context-sensitive use of indicators, and greater transparency in derogation procedures. Full article
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13 pages, 3656 KiB  
Article
The Endangered and Protected Carabus hungaricus Fabricius, 1792 (Coleoptera: Carabidae) in Bulgaria: Distributional Patterns and Conservation Status
by Teodora M. Teofilova and Nikolay D. Kodzhabashev
Conservation 2025, 5(2), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/conservation5020018 - 24 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 855
Abstract
Carabus hungaricus Fabricius, 1792, is a protected Natura 2000 species included in Berne Convention and CORINE. In Bulgaria, it is listed in the Biological Diversity Act and Bulgarian Red Data Book. It is included in the standard form of only one protected area [...] Read more.
Carabus hungaricus Fabricius, 1792, is a protected Natura 2000 species included in Berne Convention and CORINE. In Bulgaria, it is listed in the Biological Diversity Act and Bulgarian Red Data Book. It is included in the standard form of only one protected area (BG0000322 “Dragoman”) with an ‘unfavourable’ status. This study shows a part of the results from the development of an Action Plan for the protection of Carabus hungaricus in Bulgaria. Data were obtained between 24 May 2021 and 10 December 2023 with the help of 252 pitfall traps from 42 plots. Carabus hungaricus was established in only seven of the sampling sites, with a total of 198 specimens. In those sites, we found 56 other carabid species belonging to 18 zoogeographical categories. The European–Asiatic steppe complex prevailed (30%). The European–Neareastern (17.5%), Palaearctic and European–Central Asian (10.5% each) zoogeographical elements were the most represented. The known range of the species in Bulgaria is limited to the karst steppes of the small mountains around the Sofia Basin. We add four new localities to the distributional map of C. hungaricus and update its altitudinal limit, elevating it to 1200 m. The species is highly vulnerable, strongly attached to the steppe biome and is stenotopic in relation to environmental conditions, thus requiring full conservation of its habitats. Full article
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15 pages, 1807 KiB  
Article
Monitoring the Status of Mesophotic Biogenic Reefs in the Northern Adriatic Sea: Comparing a Biotic Index and Multivariate Community Patterns
by Gregorio Motta, Verdiana Vellani, Manuela Piccardo, Matteo De Luca, Saul Ciriaco, Marco Segarich, Lisa Peratoner, Maurizio Spoto, Antonio Terlizzi, Monia Renzi and Stanislao Bevilacqua
Environments 2025, 12(4), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12040124 - 17 Apr 2025
Viewed by 467
Abstract
Coralligenous bioconstructions are priority habitats crucial for the protection of Mediterranean marine biodiversity. Among these bioconstructions, the mesophotic biogenic reefs of the northern Adriatic are of particular concern due to their ecological relevance and the high levels of human pressure in the region. [...] Read more.
Coralligenous bioconstructions are priority habitats crucial for the protection of Mediterranean marine biodiversity. Among these bioconstructions, the mesophotic biogenic reefs of the northern Adriatic are of particular concern due to their ecological relevance and the high levels of human pressure in the region. Thus, effective monitoring strategies are vital for the conservation and management of these fragile environments. In this study, we investigated the multivariate spatial and temporal patterns of sessile macrobenthos on biogenic reefs within two areas of a Natura 2000 site in the northern Adriatic over a four-year period. We also classified the ecological status of reefs based on the NAMBER index, specifically tailored for these peculiar bioconstructions. Our findings revealed that temporal trajectories of assemblages significantly differed between the two investigated areas, mostly due to larger fluctuations in algal turf abundance in the area closest to the coast, which is putatively more exposed to human impacts. In this area, the index identified a “Moderate” status during the period of peaking turf abundance, while the reef status consistently remained “Good” in other periods and in the area located further from the coast. This highlights the index sensitivity in reflecting actual changes in assemblages potentially associated with reef degradation. Full article
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27 pages, 3476 KiB  
Article
Where to Protect? Spatial Ecology and Conservation Prioritization of the Persian Squirrel at the Westernmost Edge of Its Distribution
by Yiannis G. Zevgolis, Alexandros D. Kouris, Apostolos Christopoulos, Marios Leros, Maria Loupou, Dimitra-Lida Rammou, Dionisios Youlatos and Andreas Y. Troumbis
Land 2025, 14(4), 876; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14040876 - 16 Apr 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1028
Abstract
Understanding fine-scale spatial ecology is essential for defining effective conservation priorities, particularly at the range margins of vulnerable species. Here, we investigate the spatial ecology and habitat associations of the Persian squirrel (Sciurus anomalus) on Lesvos Island, Greece, representing the species’ [...] Read more.
Understanding fine-scale spatial ecology is essential for defining effective conservation priorities, particularly at the range margins of vulnerable species. Here, we investigate the spatial ecology and habitat associations of the Persian squirrel (Sciurus anomalus) on Lesvos Island, Greece, representing the species’ westernmost distribution. Using a randomized grid-based survey, we recorded 424 presence records across the island and applied a suite of spatial analyses, including Kernel Density Estimation, Getis-Ord Gi*, and Anselin Local Moran’s I, to detect hotspots, coldspots, and spatial outliers. Binomial Logistic Regression, supported by Principal Component Analysis, identified key ecological drivers of habitat use, while spatial regression models (Spatial Lag and Spatial Error Models) quantified the influence of land-use characteristics and spatial dependencies on hotspot intensity and clustering dynamics. Our results showed that hotspots were primarily associated with olive-dominated and broadleaved landscapes, while coldspots and Low–Low clusters were concentrated in fragmented or degraded habitats, often outside protected areas. Spatial outliers revealed fine-scale deviations from broader patterns, indicating local habitat disruptions and emerging conservation risks not captured by existing Natura 2000 boundaries. Spatial regression confirmed that both hotspot intensity and clustering patterns were shaped by specific land-use features and spatially structured processes. Collectively, our findings underscore the fragmented nature of suitable habitats and the absence of cohesive population cores, reinforcing the need for connectivity-focused, landscape-scale conservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Land, Biodiversity, and Human Wellbeing)
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16 pages, 8030 KiB  
Article
Breeding Habitat Suitability Modeling to Inform Management Practices for the European Turtle Dove (Streptopelia turtur) in NE Greece
by Charalambos T. Thoma, Konstantina N. Makridou and Dimitrios E. Bakaloudis
Ecologies 2025, 6(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecologies6020025 - 28 Mar 2025
Viewed by 2234
Abstract
The European Turtle Dove (Streptopelia turtur) has experienced significant population declines across its European breeding range, primarily due to habitat loss. Our study aimed to provide a new reference for the conservation of Turtle Doves in Evros province, a biodiversity hotspot. [...] Read more.
The European Turtle Dove (Streptopelia turtur) has experienced significant population declines across its European breeding range, primarily due to habitat loss. Our study aimed to provide a new reference for the conservation of Turtle Doves in Evros province, a biodiversity hotspot. We used Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) modeling to assess Turtle Dove breeding habitat suitability and account for the area of suitable habitats that is not protected or have been affected by a recent mega-fire. The best performing model identified tree cover density, the percent cover of permanently irrigated land and heterogenous agricultural areas, proximity to non-irrigated agricultural land, and forest edge length as the most important predictors of habitat suitability, signifying the importance of an interplay between open and forested land. Our results indicate that 39% of the study area provides a suitable breeding habitat, with the majority located in central and southeastern regions. Conversely, irrigated agricultural areas in the northeast are unsuitable. We found that more than 60% of suitable habitats fall within the Natura 2000 network, underscoring the importance of protected areas for conservation. However, wildfires pose a major threat, with almost 25% of suitable habitats being affected by a recent mega-fire, highlighting the need for recovery in these areas. Our study provides a foundation for targeted habitat management and restoration efforts in NE Greece and contributes to the broader understanding of the species’ habitat requirements across its breeding range. Full article
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14 pages, 2569 KiB  
Article
Wild Boars’ Selective Capture with IoT and Electronic Devices Solutions for Innovative, Sustainable and Ethical Management
by Maria Teresa Verde, Luigi Esposito, Francesco Bonavolontà, Oscar Tamburis, Annalisa Liccardo and Nadia Piscopo
Sensors 2025, 25(7), 2071; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25072071 - 26 Mar 2025
Viewed by 911
Abstract
The growing population of wild boars (Sus scrofa) in all highly anthropized countries represents a current challenge for the protection of ecosystems, agriculture and urban environments. This study introduces an innovative capture solution based on IoT systems designed to enable the [...] Read more.
The growing population of wild boars (Sus scrofa) in all highly anthropized countries represents a current challenge for the protection of ecosystems, agriculture and urban environments. This study introduces an innovative capture solution based on IoT systems designed to enable the selective capture of sub-adult wild boars in an ethical manner and minimize stress and bycatch. Conducted over five years in a Natura 2000 area in Campania, Italy, the research integrates advanced technologies, including AI-based infrared cameras, LoRa communication and autonomous feeding systems, to monitor, control and operate a specially designed selective cage trap. The results obtained demonstrate how technological innovation improves wildlife and hunting management by selecting younger animals without interfering with group dynamics. Selective capture ensures healthy population control, does not conflict with hunting and reduces pressure on habitats, especially if these fall within areas of particular importance for European biodiversity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Electronic Sensors 2025)
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17 pages, 2609 KiB  
Article
Genetic and Epigenetic Diversity of Pinus pinea L.: Conservation Implications for Priority Populations in Greece
by Evangelia V. Avramidou, Ermioni Malliarou, Evangelia Korakaki, George Mantakas and Konstantinos Kaoukis
Genes 2025, 16(4), 361; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16040361 - 21 Mar 2025
Viewed by 2507
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The stone pine (Pinus pinea L.) is an evergreen coniferous species valued for its edible seeds, which provide significant economic benefits to local populations. Remarkable phenotypic plasticity but low genetic variation characterizes the species. In Greece, natural populations of P. pinea [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The stone pine (Pinus pinea L.) is an evergreen coniferous species valued for its edible seeds, which provide significant economic benefits to local populations. Remarkable phenotypic plasticity but low genetic variation characterizes the species. In Greece, natural populations of P. pinea are part of the Natura 2000 network and are protected under Annex I Priority Habitat type 2270. These populations, located across six Natura 2000 sites (including two islands), face increasing threats from tourism and climate change, leading to ecosystem degradation. Genetic and epigenetic studies are critical for the conservation of forest species because they provide insights into the genetic diversity, adaptive potential, and resilience of species, helping to inform effective management strategies and protect biodiversity in changing environments. This study aims to assess the genetic and epigenetic diversity of P. pinea in four Natura 2000 sites using molecular markers and to propose conservation strategies to ensure the species’ long-term sustainability. Additionally, a preliminary investigation of water potential under maximum daily water demand was conducted to evaluate the species’ adaptive response. Methods: Genetic analysis was performed using Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) markers, while epigenetic analysis was conducted using Methylation-Susceptible Amplified Polymorphism (MSAP) markers. Sampling was carried out in four Natura 2000 areas, where genetic and epigenetic diversity patterns were examined. Furthermore, a preliminary study on water potential under peak daily water demand conditions was conducted to assess the species’ physiological adaptation to environmental stress. Results: The results of this study provide valuable insights into conservation strategies by highlighting the potential role of epigenetic variation in the adaptability of P. pinea, despite its low genetic variability. Understanding the species’ epigenetic flexibility can inform conservation efforts aimed at enhancing its resilience to environmental stressors, such as climate change. Additionally, the preliminary water potential analysis contributes to identifying physiological traits that may help predict the species’ survival under varying environmental conditions, guiding the development of more targeted conservation practices and management plans. Further research could refine these findings and strengthen their application in conservation efforts. Conclusions: The conclusions emphasize the critical importance of this research in informing conservation efforts for P. pinea in Greece, particularly considering climate change and human pressures. The results highlight the need for both in-situ and ex-situ conservation strategies to ensure the long-term sustainability of the species. The key recommendations include the protection of natural habitats, the implementation of controlled seed collection practices, and further research into the epigenetic mechanisms that may enhance the species’ resilience to environmental stress. Future studies should focus on deepening our understanding of these epigenetic factors and their role in the adaptability of P. pinea, which will be essential for developing more effective conservation measures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Genetics and Genomics)
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