Urban Expansion and Biodiversity Loss
In the maelstrom of urban development, cities are expanding at a dizzying pace, transforming the landscape and leaving a mark of habitat fragmentation and loss of biological diversity. Natural ecosystems that once flourished in these areas are threatened, succumbing to environmental degradation and species decline.
Urban Green Spaces: Biodiversity Refuges
In contrast to urban sprawl, recent studies have revealed that urban environments can support a remarkable diversity of species, both native and exotic. In fact, in some cases, these areas can surpass nearby rural areas in species richness, especially when they have quality green spaces.
Urban parks, gardens and forests not only provide respite from the urban hustle and bustle, but also play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity. These natural oases are home to a wide variety of wildlife, contributing to genetic diversity and ecological connectivity. From towering forests to small community gardens, these green areas benefit both wildlife and the quality of air, water and human well-being in our cities.
The Alhambra: A Historical and Biodiverse Treasure
In the heart of Granada, the Alhambra, a world-renowned historical enclave, offers a fascinating duality of history and biodiversity. Walking through its palaces, gardens and surrounding forests, one is immersed in a tapestry of natural and artificial spaces that harmoniously intertwine, creating an urbanized and naturalized space that forms an integral part of the city.
Assessing Biodiversity through Ants and Insects
To assess the biological richness of urban ecosystems, scientists often turn to birds and insects as indicators. Among insects, ants stand out for their abundance, ecological diversity and ease of identification, which makes them a model group for monitoring environmental changes.
The Ant Community of the Alhambra
A team of researchers from the Doñana Biological Station and the University of Granada studied ant communities in the Alhambra, discovering a remarkable diversity of twenty-six different species. These included species associated with mature forests and others adapted to degraded environments, including an invasive species.
The San Pedro Forest: A Biodiversity Sanctuary
The San Pedro Forest, which surrounds the Alhambra to the north, hosted the greatest richness of ant species, indicating a stable, mature and lush ecosystem. Dating back to the reign of Sultan Muley- Hacen some 600 years ago, this forest has remained relatively intact and with restricted access, which has contributed to its exceptional biodiversity.
Gardens and Orchards: Different Ant Communities
The gardens and orchards of the Alhambra, many of which have remained in their original locations for centuries, are home to an ant community adapted to open, sunny environments. The only invasive species found was the Argentine ant, which was concentrated in the most altered and degraded areas, such as ticket offices and parking lots.
The Value of Urban Green Spaces
The Alhambra is a testament to the inherent value of urban green spaces. Its rich biodiversity, encompassing ant species and other wildlife groups, highlights the importance of maintaining these natural oases in the midst of the urban environment. These forests and gardens not only provide beauty and recreation, but are also essential to the ecological health of our cities.
Connecting urban green spaces with surrounding wild areas is crucial to ensuring their long-term viability. By creating biodiversity corridors, we can prevent isolation and fragmentation, allowing native species to thrive and act as barriers against invasive species.
The Alhambra is an inspiring example of how history and biodiversity can coexist harmoniously. By valuing and protecting our urban green spaces, we can create more sustainable, healthy and resilient cities for generations to come.