Crocus ilvensis

This species is threatened by profound structural, dynamic, flora and soil changes in chestnut forest. Abandonment of these areas is leading to progressive invasion by holm oak (Quercus ilex) and the alien invasive false acacia (Robinia pseudacacia) which is replacing chestnut, both of which develop a more closed canopy with no open areas suitable for this species. High population numbers of mouflon (Ovis orientalis) are also causing significant changes in the ecology of mountain meadows favouring nitrophilous species such as Urtica atrovirens and Brachypodium retusum. Similarly over-population of wild boar (Sus scrofa) which predate the bulbs of this species leading to dramatic reductions at lower altitude, combined with significant interannual fluctuation in the number of individuals (Carta 2013).

In 2011 the Pisa Department of Biology initiated research into the autecology of this species. The Pisa Germplasm Bank has seed of this species. The range of this species falls within the Tuscan Archipelago National Park and a Site of Community Importance. Proposed conservation measures include continuation of measures to control and reduce populations of ungulates initiated by the Tuscan Archipelago National Park and to protect the most abundant populations by installing a security system to prevent access to animals (Carta 2013).