Control works of invasive flora species in pristine areas of Terceira island

June 21, 2023

The habitat improvement for the Ground beetle (Trechus terrabravensis) is one of the main objectives of the LIFE BEETLES project.  This species is classified as Endangered by the IUCN, and one of its threats is the loss of habitat due to the increase of invasive flora species (IAS).

As part of the project, the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Change promotes the control of invasive species, such as the Wild Ginger (Hedychium gardnerianum). Focusing on areas of pristine native forest on Terceira island, this control makes it possible to halt the advance of IAS, and consequent degradation of this habitat unique to the Azores. These works are carried out frequently and involve several phases, from an initial identification and geo-referencing of IAS outbreaks, the removal of the outbreaks and finally its monitoring to ensure the complete removal of IAS.

Learn more about the LIFE BEETLES project at www.lifebeetlesazores.com.