Relations between Biotic and Abiotic Diversity in Abandoned Basalt Quarry and Its Relevance for Ecological Restoration (Radobýl Hill, Northern Czechia)

Abstract

The ecological value of abandoned quarries has gained increasing scientific attention in the last few decades, resulting in a paradigm shift in restoration programs regarding the use of natural processes. The linkages between biotic and abiotic diversity, such as landform and microclimatic diversity have been analyzed only slightly, however. In this paper, we use an interdisciplinary approach that includes vegetation mapping, geomorphological mapping, microclimatic measurements and modeling to reveal the specific two-way linkages between abiotoc and biotic diversity. The present case study shows that in only 60 years landform diversity allowed the development of nine distinct biotopes with 134 identified species. At the same time, the vegetation diversity at these human-induced biotopes is of high ecological value as it displays significant similarities with natural biotopes in the region (e.g., scree slope and rock cliff biotopes). Based on the results presented, the paper aims to contribute to current restoration programs involving processes of spontaneous succession and landforming.

Basaltic Outcrops as Centers of Diversity for Xerothermic Plants in the Sudetes Mountains (Central Europe)

“…Thus, "anthropogenic disturbances" in the structure of the rocky outcrops sometimes promote species diversity. Such tendencies have been described for the vascular flora of quarries composed not only of basalts but also of other types of rocks [99][100][101][102][103][104].…”

Implication of abandoned post‐quarry sites on avifauna composition for strategic landscape restoration in Ndarugu, Kiambu, Kenya

“…The immediate effect of post‐quarrying is formation of diverse micro‐patches such as bare soil surfaces, stone and gravel, followed by gradual recruitment with plant species (Tongway & Hindley, 2005; Valdez‐Hernandez et al, 2019). Abandoned post‐quarry areas produce new habitats and geomorphologies distinct from pre‐quarry conditions providing a window of opportunity for architects, landscape designers and managers to model restoration typologies that enhance conservation of regional biodiversity and the re‐formed cultural landscape (Raska et al, 2017; Talento et al, 2020). Due to their uniqueness, aesthetic appeal, and curiosity they create, abandoned post‐quarry sites have been evaluated to be potentially attractive for social education, touristic trips, and ecological education (Baczynska et al, 2018; Damigos & Kaliampakos, 2003; Sekban & Acar, 2021).…”