Mountain greening threatens Europe's medicinal plant diversity
Climate change significantly affects the genetic diversity of plants in European mountains. Recent findings indicate that rising global temperatures are leading to the expansion of trees and shrubs into areas where they previously did not occur, posing a threat to mountain flora.
Climate change impacts nature globally. Rising temperatures and changes in land use lead to increased vegetation in the mountainous regions of Europe. Studies published in "Current Biology" reveal that this process threatens the genetic diversity of medicinal plants, such as Greek mountain tea.
Climate change impacts mountain vegetation
Mountainous regions are among the most biologically diverse areas on Earth. However, over the past 50 years, increases in temperature and changes in land use have caused the expansion of shrubs and trees. Low-growing plants, crucial for local ecosystems, are being displaced by taller vegetation. This process alters the typical appearance and character of open mountain meadows.
Greek tea as an indicator of change
Sideritis, known as Greek mountain tea, is a key component of Mediterranean mountain meadow flora. The plant is valued for its medicinal properties and also serves as an indicator of the health of open mountain habitats. According to SciTech Daily, studies have shown that in eight out of the eleven studied mountain regions, the genetic diversity of Sideritis has significantly declined.
Research findings are concerning
Researchers combined satellite data with genetic analyses of vegetation. These analyses allowed for the assessment of changes in plant populations over decades. Thanks to these studies, it has been determined that in eight out of eleven regions, biodiversity has significantly declined, significantly affecting mountain flora.
The reduction in genetic diversity impacts the ability of plants to adapt to environmental changes, which could lead to their extinction. Scientists recommend prioritising conservation actions in regions most affected by "mountain greening."
