Heavy-metal dry grassland of the Balkans

Ultramafic rocks (e.g. serpentine, ophiolite) form dark-colored soils characterized by high content of heavy metals such as iron, nickel, cobalt and chromium, and a relatively low content of nutrients such as calcium, potassium and phosphorous, as well as by a low ratio of Ca/Mg. Ultramafic soils are also characterized by pronounced fluctuation of temperature, heat and drought because of their dark color, small water capacity and usually low organic matter content. The above-mentioned special properties of ultramafic soils are considered responsible for their low fertility and the specialized vegetation they host. Species growing on ultramafic soils possess a range of adaptations to these severe ecologic conditions, such as nanism, pelosity, shiny surfaces and the ability to hyperaccumulate heavy metals in their tissues. In these habitats grow many relict and endemic species. The largest ultramafic surfaces in Europe are found in the Balkan Peninsula: Bosnia, Serbia, Kosovo, FYR of Macedonia, Bulgaria and Greece.

Indicators of quality:

This habitat depends on ultramafic soil properties but also on the type of land use. Grazing of medium intensity helps the conservation of the floristic composition and the physiognomy of this habitat type. The following characteristics may be considered as indicators of good quality: natural species composition, absence of invasive species as well as of tall herb, shrub and tree species, regular grazing and presence of endemic or specialized species adapted to ultramafic soils.

Synthesis of Red List assessment

Confidence in the assessment

Pressures and threats