Southeast Iberian shrubs and woodlands

The Southeast Iberian shrubs and woodlands is a mediterranean forests, woodlands and scrub ecoregion located in the Palearctic biogeographic realm, covering Europe, northern Asia, North Africa, and the northern Middle East, spanning approximately 2,867.8 km². Classified under the WWF ecoregion code PA12803, this region represents a distinct ecological community shaped by its unique combination of climate, geography, and evolutionary history.

Climate and Vegetation

This ecoregion experiences mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The dominant vegetation consists of sclerophyllous shrubs, evergreen oaks, and drought-resistant herbs. These conditions create the foundation for the ecological communities found within the Southeast Iberian shrubs and woodlands.

Ecological Significance

Mediterranean ecosystems rank among the world's biodiversity hotspots, with exceptionally high rates of plant endemism. Fire is a natural and essential ecological process in these systems. The Southeast Iberian shrubs and woodlands contributes to the broader biodiversity patterns of the Palearctic realm.

Conservation

Like many mediterranean forests, woodlands and scrub ecosystems, the Southeast Iberian shrubs and woodlands faces threats from urbanisation, fire regime changes, invasive species, and drought intensification. Conservation efforts in this ecoregion focus on habitat preservation, sustainable land management, and protecting corridors that connect fragmented habitat patches.