Abstract

FERNANDEZ-POZO, L. et al. Mediterranean salt steppes in Alentejo and Extremadura: Environment, threats and conservation. Rev. de Ciências Agrárias [online]. 2022, vol.45, n.4, pp.781-790.  Epub Dec 01, 2022. ISSN 0871-018X.  https://doi.org/10.19084/rca.28624.

The protection of ecosystems is a guarantee of the sustainability of human activities. The presence of exceptional habitats in the southwest of the Iberian Peninsula is frequent, making their study and conservation essential. This is the case of the inland Mediterranean salt steppes, being described in small extensions of Alentejo and Extremadura. Their study, correct interpretation and conservation should be a priority, as this habitat is considered in the Red List of Habitats of the European Union. We will characterize two areas, in Alentejo and Extremadura, where vegetation resistant to saline conditions is present, studying the topsoil, water table and climate. Initial results suggest the presence of: sodic soils (ECe < 2 dS/m and PSI >15); halophilic vegetation; alkaline water with high salt concentration, and decreased precipitation with increased potential Evapotranspiration (ETo). Environmental deterioration due to land use change, as well as the trend towards aridity, threaten the unique presence of this habitat

Keywords : Mediterranean salt steppes; Iberian Peninsula; Degradation; Conservation.

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