# The First Inventory of Sardinian Mining Vascular Flora

## TL;DR

This study identifies plants in Sardinian mining areas that can help clean up polluted soil and highlights the need for conservation and careful management.

## Contribution

The first comprehensive inventory of metallophytes in Sardinian mining sites and their phytoremediation potential.

## Key findings

- 49% of the 652 identified plant species were metallophytes, mostly facultative.
- 27% of metallophytes are suitable for phytostabilization, and 20% for phytoextraction.
- Endemic and endangered species were found, underscoring the need for conservation.

## Abstract

Mining activities and associated waste materials pose significant environmental challenges, including soil, water, and air contamination, along with health risks to nearby populations. Despite the harsh conditions of metal-enriched soils and nutrient-poor substrates, certain plants known as metallophytes thrive in these environments. This study examined the vascular flora of Sardinia’s abandoned mining sites, with a focus on identifying metallophytes and their potential role in phytoremediation. A comprehensive floristic checklist was compiled using literature, field surveys, and herbarium samples. Of the 652 taxa identified, 49% were metallophytes, with the majority categorized as facultative species. Notably, 27% of metallophytes were identified as suitable for phytostabilization, while 20% showed potential for phytoextraction. This study also highlighted the presence of endemic and endangered species, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts. The findings suggest that native metallophytes could play a key role in the ecological restoration of mining sites, though careful consideration of invasive species is necessary to avoid ecological disruption. This research provides valuable insights into the biodiversity of Sardinian mining sites and the potential for sustainable remediation strategies using native plants.