Crete's butterfly miracle: 1,230 species discovered - a biotope of diversity!

Crete's butterfly miracle: 1,230 species discovered - a biotope of diversity!

Crete, the largest island in Greece, is once again proving to be an impressive center of biodiversity. A recent study led by Peter Huemer found that the island is home to over 1,230 species of butterflies from 62 families, significantly highlighting the diversity of the native fauna. This study, considered the first comprehensive analysis of butterflies since 1916, involved the use of DNA barcodes to identify and verify species, with over half of the confirmed 724 species being genetically tested, as reported by kleinezeitung.at.

The sheer number of species discovered is impressive, but the study also uncovered some notable first discoveries. Among the 125 species discovered for the first time are 36 that were previously unknown in Greece. Particularly noteworthy is the discovery of the Asian corn borer, which was the first species of its kind to be recorded in Europe. These genetic analyzes could form the basis for important conservation measures on the island and across Europe.

Biodiversity hotspot Crete

Crete is not only valued for its scenic beauty, but is also considered a biodiversity hotspot. The island has a long isolation and a variety of habitats that contribute to its high biodiversity. Around 1,800 plant species are known in Crete, including around 180 endemic species found exclusively on this island, such as the Cretan date palm and the Cretan orchid, as cretamaris.gr notes.

Only remnants of the original forest cover remain in the mountainous regions of the island, which are characterized by vineyards, olive groves and other agricultural uses. But the biodiversity is not only reflected in the flora, but also in the fauna, which is influenced by the geomorphological conditions of the island. In addition, endemic snake species and a variety of bird species, such as the bearded vulture and the golden eagle, are of great interest to both scientists and nature lovers.

Protective measures and nature conservation work

The genetic recording of the butterfly fauna on Crete not only serves to improve species identification, but also provides information about the differences in the species population within Greece and Europe. This approach is crucial for conservation work to preserve the island's unique ecological niches. The extensive biodiversity hidden in traditional biotopes such as the Vai palm forest or the Cretan vineyards is being challenged by tourist use and human presence.

Crete therefore attracts not only tourists but also scientific interest from around the world and is recognized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as a global center of plant diversity. The island's unique flora and fauna offer visitors the opportunity to observe rare and endemic species in their natural habitat, making Crete an unparalleled destination for nature lovers, as destinationcrete.gr shows.