Ecological assessment of an unprotected natural forest area in São Miguel Island (Azores) and its potential conservation value

Relevant habitats occurring outside protected areas act as buffers for nearby reserves and provide valuable ecosystem services. In the Azores, 24% of the land is protected, but important biodiversity areas remain outside these boundaries. In this study, we assessed an area adjacent to São Miguel Island Natural Park, classified as natural vegetation. Plant and bird species were listed, 5 × 5 m plots used to characterise the plant communities and indicator species. Dendrometry approaches were used to study the invasive dynamics of Clethra arborea. Results exhibited two different plant communities: a Laurus azorica forest invaded by C. arborea; and a Calluna vulgaris scrubland with a rich herbaceous layer. Both communities reflected past human disturbances, possibly linked with collection of top-soil as substrate for pineapple cultivation. The results also confirmed that relevant areas for biodiversity exist outside protected areas in the Azores, and if restored, can potentially support biodiversity conservation.