Protecting Biodiversity: Monitoring Invertebrates in South Tyrol

In 2023, the ‘Species Monitoring’ project kicked off activities to understand and protect species of community interest in South Tyrol. This collaborative effort, led by the Nature Office of the Autonomous Province of Bozen/Bolzano, brings together the University of Bozen/Bolzano, the Naturmuseum Bozen/Bolzano and Eurac Research. Aligned with the Birds Directive (2009) and the Habitats Directive (1992) of the European Union, this project aims to safeguard the region's unique biodiversity. The presentation will highlight some of the project's fascinating target species, including the butterflies Euphydryas aurinia, Phengaris arion and Parnassius apollo; the moth Euplagia quadripunctaria; and the beetles Osmoderma eremita, Lucanus cervus and Cerambyx cerdo. Of particular interest are the Vertigo mollusc species, with Vertigo geyeri and Vertigo genesii representing unique Italian populations found only in South Tyrol. We will explore the ecology of these species, share methodologies for monitoring populations, present initial results and outline the strategic approach for long-term monitoring. By documenting and preserving these critical species, the project contributes to a broader understanding and conservation of South Tyrol's natural heritage, ensuring the protection of biodiversity in the Province.

Audrey Marsy, entomologist at Eurac Research's Institute for the Alpine Environment, collaborates with the Province of Bolzano/Bozen to monitor invertebrate species of high conservation interest, with a particular focus on species listed in the annexes of the Habitats Directive, such as saproxylic beetles, butterflies and micromolluscs.

Conference in collaboration with EURAC and the South Tyrol Biodiversity Platform.

Conference in Italian