Asphodelus bento-rainhae

This species survival is threatened by forest fires and the conversion of woodland into cherry orchards, and the fruit growers’ extensive use of herbicides. The plantations of Pinus pinaster and Pseudotsuga menziesii, as well as urban sprawl, have decreased the extent and quality of its habitat. It is also confronted with invasive plants, such as Acacia dealbata.

It is listed as priority species on Annexes II and IV of the Habitats Directive and is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). Education of local communities, sustainable management of the woodlands and of the pesticide use of the orchards are also critical to ensure the survival of this species. As the area of occupancy is very small, it would be worthy to have some protected areas (or micro reserves) created to protect the habitat of this species. More research is needed on the taxonomy, the population size and trends and the threats, especially for the Spanish populations.