Biodiversity: Hotspots in south-west Germany are losing their species richness
The burnt orchid (Neotinea ustulata, formerly Orchis ustulata) is a rare orchid species found in nutrient-poor, mostly calcareous grasslands. It takes its name from its densely clustered inflorescences, whose still-closed buds are dark red to blackish in colour and thus appear as if burnt. Due to fertilisation and increased land use, suitable habitats – and consequently the populations – in Baden-Württemberg have declined sharply. Credit/Copyright notice: SMNS, Viktoria Ferenc
A calcareous nutrient-poor grassland on the Swabian Alb in spring: In the foreground, the bright blue spring gentian (Gentiana verna) is in bloom, alongside the common cowslip (Primula veris). Such sunny, calcareous and nutrient-poor meadows are among the most species-rich habitats in southern Germany. Their diversity is preserved only through extensive use and regular maintenance. Credit/Copyright notice: SMNS, Undine Schöllkopf
A species-rich, silicate-rich, nutrient-poor meadow in the Black Forest with winged broom (Genista sagittalis). This type of grassland grows on acidic, silicate-rich and nutrient-poor soils and is found on sunny slopes in the Black Forest. It is characterised by low-growing, non-competitive plant species that cannot tolerate intensive fertilisation or frequent mowing. Credit/Copyright notice: SMNS, Undine Schöllkopf
The green-winged orchid (Anacamptis morio, formerly Orchis morio) used to be significantly more common and widespread on nutrient-poor meadows in Baden-Württemberg than it is today. Its populations have declined dramatically in recent decades. This orchid species is classified as endangered in Baden-Württemberg and is listed on the Red List. It grows only on unfertilised, nutrient-poor sites such as semi-dry grasslands. Credit/Copyright notice: SMNS, Mike Thiv
Comparison of the distribution of the green-winged orchid (Anacamptis morio, formerly Orchis morio) in Baden-Württemberg: the map on the left shows records prior to the year 2000, whilst the map on the right shows records since 2000. The comparison highlights the significant decline in the species’ occurrence. Credit/Copyright notice: SMNS, Floristic Mapping of Baden-Württemberg