Why are Greek fir trees dying in the Peloponnese mountains?

Greek fir trees are dying due to a combination of prolonged drought and bark beetle infestations, exacerbated by climate change, even in areas not affected by fires.

What role does climate change play in the Peloponnese forest crisis?

Climate change intensifies the crisis by causing prolonged droughts and weakening trees, making them susceptible to bark beetle outbreaks, which are also becoming more prevalent across Europe.

Are bark beetles a major threat to Greek forests?

Yes, bark beetles have emerged as a significant threat, attacking drought-stressed Greek fir trees by damaging their internal systems for water and nutrient transport.

Home / Environment / Greek Fir Trees Dying Off Amidst Climate Crisis

Greek Fir Trees Dying Off Amidst Climate Crisis

19 Dec

•

Summary

Greek firs are dying in Peloponnese mountains, even without fires.
Prolonged drought and invasive bark beetles are killing the trees.
Climate breakdown exacerbates these pressures, creating an ecological crisis.

Greek Fir Trees Dying Off Amidst Climate Crisis

The majestic Greek firs in the Peloponnese mountains are facing an unprecedented crisis, with vast swathes of forest turning brown and dying. Even areas not affected by fires are showing significant tree mortality, alarming scientists like Dimitrios Avtzis from the Forest Research Institute. This complex die-off is not solely due to fires, which have historically been a part of the ecosystem.

Researchers point to a convergence of factors intensified by climate breakdown. Severe, prolonged drought has weakened the trees, exacerbated by declining winter snowpack which reduces crucial moisture. This vulnerability allows bark beetles, particularly of the Scolytinae subfamily, to thrive, boring into trees and disrupting their vital water and nutrient transport systems. These insect outbreaks are becoming a significant threat across Europe.