NEWS: PROMONT SPECIES SPOTLIGHT: GREECE – MT. OLYMPUS

This week’s species spotlight focuses on Mount Olympus and three intriguing species selected by our Lead Partner from Greece, Pieriki Anaptixiaki.

Scientific name: Jankaea heldreichii

Common name: Heldreich’s jankaea -Γιάνκεα του Χέλντραϊχ 

Family: Gesneriaceae

Conservation status: Near Threatened

Causes: Jankaea heldreichii grows only in a few cool and damp cracks of the rocks on Mount Olympus. This makes it very rare but also very fragile. Every summer, hikers walking through its habitat may step on it or even collect it, slowly putting its survival at risk. At the same time climate change is changing the balance of moisture and temperature that the plant depends on. Although listed as Near Threatened, it depends on very specific conditions, which makes its future delicate.

Information about the species: Jankaea heldreichii is a rare perennial plant. It grows on shaded limestone cliffs, usually in narrow cracks that remain cool and protected throughout the year. The plant is small and discreet, but in late spring it produces striking purple blossoms that make it easily recognizable. Because it can only survive under very specific conditions, it is restricted to a few isolated spots on the mountain, making it both unique and highly sensitive to disturbance.

Interesting facts/why it is important: Jankaea heldreichii is a plant of exceptional value, found only on Mount Olympus. It is the sole representative of its genus and a rare relict of past geological eras, having endured natural changes for millions of years. Its strict dependence on just a few habitats makes it vulnerable, but also highlights how important it is to protect sensitive mountain ecosystems.

Scientific name: Ursus arctos

Common name: Brown bear – Καφέ αρκούδα 

Family: Ursidae

Conservation status: Threatened on Mount Olympus

Causes: On Mount Olympus, the brown bear population remains small. The main threats come from habitat disturbance and fragmentation caused by roads, forestry and increasing human presence in the mountain. Occasional poaching also affects the survival of the species. In addition, climate change influences food availability and the length of the hibernation period.

Information about the species: The brown bear is the largest terrestrial mammal of Greece and one of the most characteristic species of its mountain forests. On Mount Olympus it survives in low numbers, mainly in dense forests and mixed woodland. It is an omnivorous species: its diet includes fruits, nuts, roots, honey, insects and occasionally small or large animals. Bears are solitary, except for mothers with cubs, and usually hibernate for three to four months during winter, depending on food availability and weather conditions.

Interesting facts/why it is important: The brown bear has been present in Greek culture and folklore for centuries, symbolizing wilderness and respect for nature. On Mount Olympus it uses dens for hibernation and raising cubs, showing the importance of the area for reproduction. Today, this small and threatened population underlines the urgent need to safeguard fragile mountain ecosystems and the species that depend on them.

Scientific name: Rupicapra rupicapra balcanica

Common name: Wild goat – Αγριοκάτσικο 

Family: Bovidae

Conservation status: Threatened on Mount Olympus

Causes: On Mount Olympus, the wild goat has been affected by poaching, which has historically reduced its numbers. Grazing pressure and competition with livestock in alpine meadows further limit the resources available to the species. Today its numbers on the mountain are very limited

Information about the species: The wild goat is a mountain mammal that lives in steep and rocky areas. On Mount Olympus it survives in very small numbers, mainly on cliffs and alpine meadows at high altitude. These habitats provide food and shelter throughout the year, with the animals feeding on grasses, herbs and young shoots in spring and summer, and on shrubs and leaves during the winter. Wild goats usually form small groups of females with young, while males tend to live more solitary.

Interesting facts/why it is important: On Mount Olympus the wild goat endures the extremes of mountain life, from hot dry summers to long snowy winters. It moves seasonally between high cliffs and alpine meadows, following the availability of food. These movements connect the species closely with the rhythm of the mountain and underline its role in alpine biodiversity.

PROMONT supports mountain ecosystems by testing solutions for flora and fauna restoration. Follow us and get insights on the project’s results towards maintaining mountain biodiversity using green infrastructure!

Photos by:
Jankaea heldreichii by Harry Jans on Saxifraga Foundation
Ursus arctos by Martin Mollet on Saxifraga Foundation
Rupicapra rupicapra balcanica by Mark Zekhuis on Saxifraga Foundation