Conservation of the Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants in the Mining and Tourism Area: Khibiny Mountains, Murmansk Region, Russia

TL;DR

This study examines the conservation of rare and endangered plants in the industrialized Khibiny Mountains, highlighting the balance between biodiversity protection and human activities in the Russian Arctic.

Contribution

The paper provides a detailed analysis of the spatial distribution of rare vascular plants and evaluates the impact of mining and tourism on their conservation in the Arctic.

Findings

Approximately 28% of the protected vascular plant species in the Murmansk Region are found in the Khibiny Mountains.

Most rare species are confined to the southern part of the mountain range, with Papaver lapponicum being the only species found throughout the area.

Mining expansion, deforestation, and wildfires are identified as major threats to the region's biodiversity.

Abstract

The Khibiny Mountains (hereafter called Khibiny Mts.) are one of the most urbanized and industrialized regions in the Russian Arctic. There are combined a developed mining complex, elaborate infrastructure, a well-known tourist resort, and a large population, all amidst an exceptionally rich biodiversity of plants. In this study, we analyzed the current knowledge of the spatial distribution of rare and endangered vascular plants and vegetation and the impacts of human activities on these ecosystems. Approximately 28% of the protected vascular plant species in the Murmansk Region were registered within the confines of the Khibiny Mts. In particular, although only a handful of protected species had a widespread presence, most rare species were confined to the southern reaches of the mountain range, with only a select few extending into other parts. Papaver lapponicum was the only species that thrived across the entire territory, including industrial areas. The studied territory contained nine specially protected areas spanning 123,220 hectares. Nature monuments adjacent to mining sites and urban centers play an important role in preserving regional biodiversity. However, the expansion of the mining industry, alongside deforestation and wildfires, poses considerable threats to the biodiversity of the Khibiny Mts. A comprehensive biodiversity conservation strategy implemented in this region balances the local and expansive territorial protection of rare species and habitats, ensuring environmental preservation while facilitating social and economic progress, a noteworthy example of environmental protection in the Arctic.

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