FLORA CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION
Academic Year 2025/2026 - Teacher: ANTONIA EGIDIA CRISTAUDOExpected Learning Outcomes
The course aims to acquire knowledge relating to the conservation of plant diversity of species and habitats of the "Habitat" Directive 92/43 EEC through ex situ and in situ actions. It also aims to develop the ability to identify the processes that contribute to defining the conservation status of species and habitats of conservation interest and to evaluate their risk category according to international standards. These skills will be learned through lectures, laboratory and field exercises and the analysis of case studies of conservation programs and projects already implemented.
Course Structure
The course will be carried out through lectures supported by power point presentations and laboratory and field exercises, for the acquisition of methods and techniques for ex situ/in situ conservation. During the course, documents in electronic format and course slides will be made available, which however do not constitute notes.
Required Prerequisites
It is useful to have basic knowledge in systematic botany and plant biology
Attendance of Lessons
Attendance in this course is mandatory
Detailed Course Content
Threat factors and conservation status of plant species and habitats of community interest. Global Strategy for Plant Conservation (GSPC) and European Strategy for Plant Conservation. EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and National Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. Aspects of ex situ conservation of spontaneous plant diversity. Germplasm banks in the ex situ conservation of threatened and interesting flora. Germplasm collection protocols, preparation of the germplasm to be preserved, storage conditions. Biology and ecology of seed germination of target species: requirements for germination. Germination/propagation protocols. Propagation of native Mediterranean species. Monitoring plant populations in a critical state of conservation. Characterization and evaluation of the genetic diversity of threatened flora species of interest in ex situ conservation. In situ conservation: habitat protection, maintenance of local populations, protected areas. Integrated conservation, ex situ and in situ, and management of small populations. Environmental restoration and/or restoration, implemented with ecological-naturalistic criteria (ecological restoration), through measures such as: population strengthening (repopulation), reintroduction, introduction. Examples of realities that apply integrated conservation such as the LIFE Nature & Biodiversity programme, INTERREG, etc.
Learning Assessment
Learning Assessment Procedures
The main evaluation tool will be the oral exam from which one can deduce knowledge of the topics in the program, clarity of presentation and ownership of language. It is also required to prepare a PowerPoint presentation of a specific case, explored in depth by the student using the necessary data collection tools, highlighted by the teacher during the course. Attendance at the course and participation in practical activities will also be taken into account.