Journal of Environmental Biology

Overview of temporary ponds in the Mediterranean region : Threats, management and conservation issues

Ierotheos Zacharias ¹, Elias Dimitriou*²,  Angela Dekker ³ and Edith Dorsman³

¹University of Ioannina, Department of Environmental and Natural Resources Management,

2 Seferi Str., 30100 Agrinio, Greece

²Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, Institute of Inland Waters, 19013, Anavissos Attikis, Greece

³Hogeschool Zeeland, Aquatic Ecotechnology, Edisonweg 4, 4380 AJ Vlissingen, The  Netherlands

(Received: January 4, 2006 ; Revised received: June 15, 2006 ; Re-revised received: August 1, 2006 ; Accepted: August 10, 2006)

Abstract: Mediterranean temporary ponds (MTPs) comprise an endangered habitat with several endemic species that can be found in many countries, mainly in the Mediterranean region but are disappearing at a high rate. For designing optimal conservation and management strategies for the particular ecosystems, appropriate characterization and classification of these ponds is necessary based on the different type of habitats and on their varying environmental conditions. This paper presents the current ecological status and the threats of Mediterranean temporary ponds and summarizes some management and conservation issues based on the existing experience on a regional level. Emphasis is given in the Greek MTPs with respect to their characteristics and the pressures received mainly from human activities such as agriculture and water overexploitation. Restoration practices should be commenced immediately aiming at the reestablishment of the ponds’ hydroperiod and water quality at the natural levels.

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