Laurisilva is a unique type of subtropical forest found mainly in the Macaronesia region, which includes the Canary Islands, Madeira, Azores, and Cape Verde. Derived from the Latin terms "laurus" meaning laurel and "silva" meaning forest, laurisilva refers to a specific type of forest characterized by the dominance of laurel trees.
This forest ecosystem is typically located in humid to subhumid areas with high rainfall and moderate temperatures. Laurisilva forests display a remarkable diversity of plant species, both evergreen and deciduous, contributing to their rich biodiversity. Alongside laurels, some of the common tree species found in laurisilva forests include heathers, mosses, ferns, and other endemic plants.
Laurisilva forests provide crucial habitat for a wide range of animals, including numerous bird species, insects, lizards, and bats. They serve as an important refuge for rare and endangered species, contributing to their conservation.
Due to their exceptional ecological value and biological significance, laurisilva forests have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in some areas. These forests also play a vital role in regulating water flow, preventing soil erosion, and carbon sequestration, thereby contributing to local climate stability and global environmental health.
Laurisilva forests have faced significant habitat loss and degradation over the centuries, primarily due to human activities like logging, agriculture, and urbanization. Nevertheless, conservation efforts are being made to protect and restore these invaluable forests, ensuring the preservation of their unique biodiversity and ecological functions.
