There is growing recognition of the fact that biological resources and diversity are vital to humankind’s economic and social development. It is accepted that Biological diversity is a global asset of tremendous value, and it needs to be preserved for future generations. At the same time, the threat to species and ecosystems has never been greater than it is today and, it is vital that biodiversity conservation is given due recognition in order to ensure that the ongoing development embodies a strong sense of sustainability.
Located in South-Eastern Europe, Serbia covers an area of 88,407 km2 with moderate continental climate. The dominant position of river valleys from the south towards the hilly areas in the north of the country allows the deep penetration of polar air masses in southern regions. The mountain landscape of Serbia is rich in canyons, gorges and caves, as well as preserved forests, home to a multitude of endemic species. Serbia’s mountains form part of the Rhodopes range, the Carpathians and Balkan Mountains, and the Dinaric karst, the large mountain chain rich in natural and cultural heritage of the Western Balkans. 15 peaks reach an altitude of over 2,000 m, of which the highest is Ðeravica in the Prokletije, with a height of 2,656 m. erbia is a country of rich ecosystem and species diversity – covering only 1,9% of the whole European territory it is home to 18% of European vascular flora, 25% of European insects fauna, 16% of European fish fauna, 16,5% of European reptile and amphibian fauna, 69% of European bird fauna, 38% European mammal fauna. The diversity of ecosystems in Serbia is primarily evident in the diversity and specific character of its vegetation. Serbia’s status as a center of biodiversity in Europe is to a high degree determined by its geological age, geomorphology, and climatic conditions and, in particular, by its role as refuge for a number of species during the glacial periods. Thus, the Balkan and Pannonian regions of the country harbor numerous endemic-relict floral elements from previous geological ages.
