Distribution and conservation perspectives of Taxus baccata L. (Taxaceae) in Sicily

Abstract

Distribution and ecoplogy of Taxus baccata in Sicily havwe been analyzed in order to evaluate its styatus with restoration purposes. Field surveys compared with historical information have shown that, even if the species became extinct since a long time in some areas of the island, the extant population on the Nebrodi Mountains is expanding. This inverted process, following the foundation of the Regional natural Park of Nebrodi, has clearly started soon after protection against grazing and other human activities has been acted in localities where Taxus occurs. The most important cause of extinction has therefore been identified in the cutting of trees practiced to prevent livestock poisoning, then guidelines for conservation and restoration of T. baccata both in Sicily and other Mediterranean regions subject to similar pressure have been outlined.