Ecotope of Valonia Oak and livestock husbandry in Akarnanika Mountains

In the framework Natura 2000 program, the ecotope of Valonia Oak (Quercus ithaburencis subsp. macrolepis) was recognized and mapped in Akarnanika mounts. Valonia Oak constitutes unique type of deciduous oak in dry and warm regions of the country with multiple uses and values. Oak forests are ecosystems (agroforestry) with big ecological and economic value. They produce forage for wild fauna habitats (birds and mammals), recreation, environment, firewood, reserves of infrequent species of flora and fauna. In the past, the use of acorns’ cups in tannage was an important economic resource. It was resulted, that this ecotope reach up to 620 m altitude, groundcover varies in overstorey from 40- 50%, in middlestorey from 25-50% with dominant species Phlomis fruticosa and in understorey from 20-30% with herbs. Oak forests have dense herb vegetation, high plant diversity and contribute considerably in the diet of a big number of domestic animals, mainly sheep and goats, cattle, during the period of autumn – winter – spring. The forage is maintained green for a long period, due to microclimate that is created in these ecosystems. Also, acorns constitute precious food for the local pig of free grazing. In some areas, overgrazing and combination of frequent wildfires, prevent the natural oak regeneration. Additionally, this study resulted that oak ecotope is ecological sensitive and should be protected, aiming to improvement and sustainable management of livestock-farming, the maintenance of biodiversity and agroforestry landscape.