Morella rivas-martinezii

Main threats are competition with exotic species and natural competition, trampling, anthropization of its habitat, grazing and predation, the construction of roads and infrastructures and hybridisation phenomena with Myrica faya (Carqué Álamo et al. 2004). The low presence of female individuals and juvenile individuals has been reported as a threat that could lead the population of La Gomera to become extinct (Gobierno de Canarias 2004).

This species is listed as priority species on Annex II of the Habitat Directive and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is classed CR B2ab(iii,v) in the Spanish Red List 2008 (Moreno 2008) and as species "En peligro de extinción" in the national and regional catalogues of threatened species of Spain and the Canary Islands.

Two out of the eight subpopulations present in La Gomera occur within the protected area Parque Nacional de Garajonay (SCI) (Carqué Álamo et al. 2004). In El Hierro all the subpopulations are included in Parque Rural de Frontera (SCI). The subpopulations of La Palma do not occur within protected areas.

A recuperation programme is being implemented in Parque Nacional de Garajonay. A LIFE project has been developed by the regional government (Viceconsejería de Medio Ambiente del Gobierno de Canarias), which has involved several activities, such as research about the genetics of the species (González et al. 2009), its propagation, and re-introduction plans.

Reinforcement programmes must be kept in place, ensuring a balanced presence of individuals of both genders. Physical protection should be established for the populations, as well as invasive species control measures. Plant material should be sent to germplasm banks. Research has to be developed in order to clarify the taxonomical status of the taxon.