Recent scientific research conducted in the Ulcinj Saltworks Natural Park has revealed the identification of 20 conservation-significant invertebrate species, including the striped swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius), the large dragonfly (Lindenia tetraphylla), and the Adriatic bush-cricket (Ephippiger discoidalis).
The Center for Protection and Study of Birds (CZIP) reported that monitoring protocols for 12 different taxa were developed during this and the previous year. The studies focused on various biodiversity groups, including amphibians, reptiles, benthic organisms, mosses, macroalgae, invertebrates, fish, small and large mammals, bats, birds, and vegetation, with an emphasis on invasive plant species.
Notably, the research documented a significant number of species listed under the Bern Convention, IUCN, and the national Red Lists, as well as key species from the Natura 2000 network. For the first time in Montenegro, three species and one genus of mosses, along with one genus and four new species of charophytes, were recorded.
Among the five amphibian species and 11 reptile species identified, the Skadar frog (Pelophylax shqipericus), an endemic species of the Balkan Peninsula, stands out, along with two turtle species—Hermann's tortoise (Testudo hermanni) and the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis)—which are crucial for the Natura 2000 protected areas.
The study also highlighted the presence of 70 bird species of particular interest for EU protection, as listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive. Furthermore, the research addressed undesirable phenomena such as the spread of the invasive plant species (Aster squamatus) and the Atlantic blue crab (Callinectes sapidus).
CZIP emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring to assess the status of biodiversity and the effectiveness of conservation measures. The study, 'BioMon - Establishing Biodiversity Monitoring in the Ulcinj Saltworks,' is now operational for future management bodies, providing essential data and protocols for measuring the quality and effectiveness of management in this protected area.
The study was prepared within the framework of a project supported by the IKI small grants scheme, implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and funded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment.
For more information and to access the study, visit CZIP's website.