Bouleau Pleureur

There are no major threats facing this species. However, the main threats to the genetic diversity of this species are found at the margin of its distribution, where occurrence is discontinuous and consisting of isolated subpopulations. In particular, southern (Spain, Italy, France) and, to a smaller extent, northern edges of the distribution area are subject to this fragmentation process. Very little is known about the amount and organisation of genetic variation in the southern marginal areas. Within the main distribution area there are no immediate threats to the genetic diversity of this species.

In northern Europe this species is common and has almost continuous distribution over large areas without any immediate threats to the amount of genetic diversity, hence the nature of the gene conservation measures in these areas is mostly precautionary. These measures include restrictions on the use of single seed sources or vegatatively reproduced clones and the selection of properly adapted forest reproductive material. An additional measure to protect the natural genetic composition is to select in situ areas for genetic conservation either for birch alone or as mixed forest with other species. Such areas can be nature conservation areas or gene reserve forests under commercial forestry. In the areas of scattered distribution the use of gene reserve forests may not be possible. The local stands may be too small and threatened by various environmental hazards to such a degree that an ex situ conservation strategy is more applicable. Ex situ collections may be based on either grafts or seedlings. Seeds are currently stored in Kew's Millennium Seed Bank. This species is under full protection in one or more regions of France, and is protected according to Decret 18/92 (Annex 4) in Spain. This species is listed as Least Concern in Denmark, Estonia, Norway, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Great Britain and China. It is however listed as Endangered in Albania.