Distribution of the species
It is mainly found at the highest altitudes of the mountain, in the sub-alpine ecosystems on steep slopes of north orientation, over 1,600 m asl.
Description of the species (biological and ecological features)
It forms large colonies at Mt. Paggaio. Deciduous, dwarf shrub, forms a loose ground cover by many upright stems, which rarely reach 50 cm. Its flowers look like very small, greenish-white to pinkish, spherical bells. The fruit is spherical like a grape, blackish with a blue coating. It flowers from May to June. It grows on acidic, humid soils. The European blueberry is adapted to habitats characterized by bitter-cold winters and short warm summers. Having a small, almost dwarf height, it is located near the ground, where higher temperatures develop, while the dry leaves, forming solid structures, provide protection from the wind. Its fruits have important medicinal properties, with a long history of use for treating eye disorders. It is one of the richest natural sources of anthocyanins and, therefore, has important antioxidant, hypoglycaemic and antimicrobial properties. Several studies support the health benefits of its fruits, especially for the treatment of degenerative diseases. Although edible, the fruit is not harvested in Greece. In contrast, in central Europe it is used in cooking, confectionery and beverage production.
Although it has a relatively limited geographical distribution on Mount Paggaio (high altitude areas) and due to the large number of individuals in the places where it occurs, the species is not considered endangered. Extensive projects (e.g., road construction) in the high-altitude areas of the mountain could cause a decrease in its population.
Conservation status
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Conservation state
It is not subjected to any national or international conservation status.