Effect of global warming on the distribution of endemic or relict plant species

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The in situ ecophysiology of woody species has been a very useful tool in determining the vigour and viability of plant populations under stress, as are many of those living in Mediterranean environments. In a scenario of global change, the populations of numerous endemic or relict species are being threatened. Since 2006, and along with Fernando Valladares, we are conducting interdisciplinary studies, combining ecophysiology and demography on different Mediterranean shrubs living in the Balearic Islands, one endemic to Mallorca and Cabrera (Rhamnus ludovici-salvatoris) and the other restricted to the western Mediterranean (Cneorum tricoccon) (here). Some populations of both species have become extinct for different reasons, and water stress is likely to be one of them.