Forms of nature protection such as national parks and Natura 2000 sites
Biodiversity in Cyprus
Cyprus, just like the other Mediterranean countries, is characterized by a large number of plant species that have limited distribution and a high rate of endemism. Endemic species are very important for flora in Cyprus. Out of 1,780 vascular plants found in Cyprus, 145 are endemics. Some of them are only found even in small areas like Troodos Mountain which is considered to be very important in terms of flora. In Cyprus we can find various flora and fauna species such as: 28 mammal species (16 bats), 5 of which are endemics, 365 birds species, 7 of which are endemics, 22 reptiles, 6 of which are endemics, 3 amphibians, 52 butterflies, 9 of which are endemics and more than 3500 insects, many of which are endemics. Moreover, in Cyprus we can find 48 natural habitat types (14 priority habitat types) and 19 species of Annex II of Birds Directive. |
The Natura 2000 network in Cyprus
Cyprus as a member of the European Union is trying to fulfil its obligations towards EU Directives and legislation concerning Nature Conservation. Thus, 36 areas are Special Community Interest Areas (SCIs), approved by the Commission in March 2008. Of these areas 31 are terrestrial, 1 is marine and 4 are both marine and terrestrial areas. A couple of additional areas will be proposed as SCIs soon.
Also, 19 areas were designated as Special Protection Areas (SPAs) for the protection of birds and animals. More areas will be designated as SPAs soon.
Cyprus as a member of the European Union is trying to fulfil its obligations towards EU Directives and legislation concerning Nature Conservation. Thus, 36 areas are Special Community Interest Areas (SCIs), approved by the Commission in March 2008. Of these areas 31 are terrestrial, 1 is marine and 4 are both marine and terrestrial areas. A couple of additional areas will be proposed as SCIs soon.
Also, 19 areas were designated as Special Protection Areas (SPAs) for the protection of birds and animals. More areas will be designated as SPAs soon.