Halophytic vegetation in south-east Europe: classification, conservation and ecogeographical patterns.

Abstract

Abstract Halophytic vegetation is very complex and diverse, and the main factors for its development are salinity and moisture. Investigations into different types of halophytic vegetation have been compiled in vegetation databases as scientific tools for classification analyses and interpretation of European saline habitats. Two major types of halophytic habitats exist in Europe: inland (continental) and coastal (maritime), with different halophytic plant communities. Inland halophytic vegetation is classified into two main classes: Thero-Salicornietea: annual succulent vegetation of extreme salt-rich soils, and Festuco-Puccinellietea: saline steppe grasslands. Coastal halophytic vegetation is represented by five classes: Saginetea maritimae: ephemeral vegetation, Crithmo-Staticetea: vegetation of salt-sprayed coastal cliffs, Cakiletea maritimae: pioneer vegetation of sandy and shingle beaches, Ammophiletea: tall-grass vegetation on mobile coastal dunes and Helichryso-Crucianelletea maritimae: dwarf shrub and grassland vegetation on stabilized dunes. Saline habitats are globally endangered; major threats are thought to be ploughing and melioration, as well as abandonment of traditional management (grazing and mowing), eutrophication and ruderalization. Several species of continental and maritime halophytic vegetation are listed in Annex I of the Habitats Directive, and saline habitats are part of the Natura 2000 network (Council Directive 92/43/EoEC 1992).