Article

A significant contribution to the proper ecosystem functioning and services is provided by the vascular plant species richness. Therefore, understanding the environmental, and in particular, biogeographical predictors of vascular plant richness – and richness with endemism, can accordingly support conservation efforts of biodiversity as well as ecosystem services at a proper scale. This study used field survey data, as well as herbarium materials and literature sources to explore the relation between plant endemism and natural habitats in a particular region of a National Park in “Bjeshkët e Nemuna” (Kosovo). A number of environmental factors were recorded for this study, with particular focus on the natural habitats of 65 Balkan endemic plant taxa in the Mt. Leqinat, in a narrow area (6 km²) but yet exceedingly rich floristic diversity. A correlation between habitat diversity and richness with endemic plant taxa was confirmed. In total, 20 EUNIS habitat types were recorded with endemic plant taxa, where (E4.4) - Calcareous alpine grasslands proved to be the richest in terms of endemics they harbor. Total floristic diversity in relation to altitude, reaches the highest values in the range between 1.800 to 2.000 m. a.s.l. As a measure proposed to further improve conservation management within this area of the National Park is to better control human activities, and therefore establish a balance between strict protection and the sustainable use of natural resources.