River Axios (1002)
Greece, Europe
Site overview
KBA status: confirmed
Global KBA criteria: D1a
Year of last assessment: 2000
National site name: Potamos Axios
Central coordinates: Latitude: 40.7833, Longitude: 22.6333
System: freshwater, terrestrial
Elevation (m): 0 to 70
Area of KBA (km2): 121.0602
Protected area coverage (%): 95.76
KBA classification: Global
Legacy site: Yes
Site details
Site description: This site contains the River Axios together with patches and islands of riverine forest and pasture.
Rationale for qualifying as KBA: This site qualifies as a Key Biodiversity Area of international significance that meets the thresholds for at least one criterion described in the Global Standard for the Identification of KBAs.
Additional biodiversity: The site is an important corridor for migratory species. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquila clanga (1-3 wintering individuals).
Habitats
Land use: agriculture (20%) | water management (30%)
| IUCN Habitat | Coverage % | Habitat detail |
|---|---|---|
| Forest | 10 | |
| Artificial - Terrestrial | 20 | |
| Wetlands(Inland) | 70 |
Threats
Summary of threats to biodiversity at KBA: A major threat, particularly to waterbirds, is the extraction of sand from the river-bed, sandbanks and forested areas. Chemical industries deposit solid toxic waste along the river. Urban and agricultural pollution are also problems. The river is dammed and water is extracted for irrigation.