Moldova prepares new edition of Red Book

The Republic of Moldova is preparing to update the Red Book, the main document that includes rare and endangered species of plants, fungi and animals. After two years of research conducted by specialists from the National Botanical Garden (Institute) “A. Ciubotaru”, the Institute of Zoology and the Institute of Ecology and Geography, proposals have been drafted for the 4th edition of the Red Book.

According to studies carried out by scientists, several species of plants and fungi included in the previous edition could be excluded from the new version of the document. These changes are based on the current assessment of the status of the species and their habitats.

Contacted by MOLDPRES, the director of the National Botanical Garden said that researchers have drawn up a list that is to be examined by the National Commission of the Red Book.


“A list of plant and fungal species has been drawn up, which will be proposed to the National Commission of the Red Book for inclusion in the new edition. In addition, proposals have been made to exclude about 20 species of plants and fungi present in the 3rd edition. The exclusion of these species is due to their reclassification into less threatened rarity categories or into the extinct species category,” explained Ion Roșca.


At the same time, researchers propose including in the Red Book approximately 70 new species of plants and animals that are at risk. These were identified following investigations carried out in recent years and meet the necessary criteria to benefit from special protection measures.

Specialists explain that a species can be included in the Red Book when a reduction in its numbers, a shrinking of its distribution range, degradation of habitat conditions, or the need to apply urgent conservation measures is observed. Priority is given to endemic and relict species, those at the limit of their distribution range, species with particular scientific value, and those affected by human activities.

The topic was also addressed during a workshop organized by the Ministry of Environment, which brought together forestry specialists and environmental experts. Participants discussed the role of forest ecosystems in conserving biodiversity and adapting to climate change.


“The main problems affecting ecosystems were highlighted, such as forest fragmentation, pressure on natural resources and forest fires. At the same time, solutions were presented for restoring degraded areas, regenerating forests and developing sustainable forest management, for the benefit of communities and the quality of life of the population,” the Ministry of Environment’s statement reads.


According to the Ministry of Environment, the update of the Red Book reflects both the positive results of protection measures implemented in recent years and the new challenges facing the country’s biodiversity.

In the coming period, the National Commission of the Red Book will examine the researchers’ recommendations and will submit to the Ministry of Environment the final list of critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable species that will be included in the 4th edition.

Under current legislation, the Red Book of the Republic of Moldova is updated once every ten years. The latest edition was published in 2015.

Author: Bianca Gheorghița