The role of biodiversity in supporting ecosystem services in Natura 2000 sites

The recent discussion about the relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem services also raises the question as to whether the argumentative basis for nature conservation can be strengthened by emphasizing the role of species and habitats in supporting ecosystem services. A literature survey shows that mainly socio-cultural and some regulating services are dependent on particular species, groups of species, or habitat types, while many other services, especially those related to provisioning, rely more heavily on vegetation structures and land cover. These findings are exemplified and discussed using a case study on Natura 2000 sites in the Ore Mountains in the German state of Saxony. Only a small portion of the species listed in the Annexes of the Habitats Directive is bound to particular Natura 2000 habitat types. Such species can be regarded as indicators both for these habitats and for the ecosystem services they provide, as well as for indicating changes in ecosystems and related services, which are caused by climate change and land use changes (e.g. due to flood mitigation measures and the enhanced use of renewable energies).

► The paper refers to the relationships between biodiversity, ecosystem services (ES) and nature conservation. ► This issue is exemplified on the Pan-European network of protected areas “Natura 2000”. ► A literature survey is followed by a case study in the Ore Mountains situated along the border between Germany and the Czech Republic. ► The specific role of Natura 2000 habitat types and species for the provision of ES is revealed. ► It is also shown how biodiversity and ES of Natura 2000 sites are or will be influenced by land use changes and by climate change.