"Artimes" limestone quarry in Drepano (Achaia)
In order to record biodiversity in the Artimes limestone quarry area, a specialized study was conducted by the Plant Biology Division of the University of Patras Department of Biology, in collaboration with the University of Ioannina Environment & Natural Resources Management Department.
The goal was the full rehabilitation of the quarry –while in operation–, its natural succession and plant diversity, with the flora of the surrounding area providing the ecosystem reference.
On the basis of the findings of the study, the correct rehabilitation practice with the tiered method is being pursued, whereby species which are alien to the region are avoided and dominant Mediterranean flora species are selected.
To this day, over 300,000 saplings and plants grown at our own nurseries have been used for the rehabilitation of the quarry.
This was the first relevant study undertaken for our quarries in Greece and the findings pave the way for subsequent biodiversity management studies.