Vegetation and Annex I habitats of a suburban river in southern Tuscany (central Italy): remnants of plant diversity or need for restoration

Using vegetation as a bioindicator in urban and degraded areas is an effective way to assess the status of the environment. In this work, we present the results of a phytosociological investigation of a suburban river and of its surroundings in southern Tuscany (Bestina river and its tributary Bestinino in Asciano, Province of Siena). By means of 94 phytosociological releves, we identified 34 plant communities belonging to the 17 classes. Six habitats included in the 92/43/EEC Directive, plus two habitats recently proposed for inclusion, were identified, as well as one habitat of regional interest. The study revealed that, despite the high levels of human disturbance, aquatic and herbaceous riparian vegetation is still well-preserved, though mostly represented by stress-tolerant communities. On the contrary, most of the vegetation types not being directly linked to the river dynamic are in poor conservation status. Despite this, some habitats of community interest were detected even in non-riverine sites. Our work provides the basic knowledge for future restoration of the Bestina river and of its surroundings, wished by the Tuscany Region.

Automated summary

Using vegetation as a bioindicator in urban and degraded areas is an effective way to assess the environment. Our study focused on a suburban river and its surroundings in southern Tuscany, where we identified multiple plant communities and habitats, including those of regional and community interest. The study revealed that while riparian vegetation is well-preserved, other vegetation types not directly linked to the river dynamic are in poor conservation status. The findings provide valuable knowledge for future restoration efforts in the area.