The Biodiversity of Georgian Forests and the Current Situation

Abstract

Georgia, situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, boasts a rich and diverse ecosystem. It hosts a remarkable array of ecosystems shaped by diverse climatic conditions, ranging from humid-subtropical to dry-continental. Forests, which cover approximately 44.5% of Georgia’s land area, harbor over 5,000 species of wild plants, including significant Tertiary relics such as Rhododendron ponticum, Taxus baccata, Castanea sativa, etc. Particularly in the Ajara region, which is recognized as one of 34 global biodiversity hotspots by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), biodiversity remains a key ecological asset. Despite this richness, the forests of Georgia face increasing threats from invasive pests, diseases, and the impacts of climate change. This study evaluates the current biodiversity, forest health, and management challenges, with a focus on the Ajara region. Using data from the 2023 National Forest Census and field observations, the research examines species distribution, vegetation zonation, and the effects of environmental stressors on forest ecosystems. Moreover, it assesses current pest management and forest restoration efforts, emphasizing sustainable practices to mitigate the risks posed by climate change and invasive species. Results indicate that Georgia’s forests contain a rich diversity of angiosperms, gymnosperms, and spore-bearing plants, distributed across various elevational zones. However, climate change-induced pests, such as Cydalima perspectalis and Cryphonectria parasitica, are causing significant ecological damage. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, including the use of pheromone traps and biological controls, have shown some success in combating these threats. Nevertheless, enhanced monitoring and climate-adaptive management are essential for ensuring the sustainability of these forests.