PRIORITY SPECIES and HABITATS on TNP MEȘENDORF FARM Management Measures for Their Conservation

PRIORITY SPECIES AND HABITATS ON TNP MEȘENDORF FARM Management measures for their conservation

ALEXANDRU BĂDĂRĂU, LASZLO RAKOSY, CRISTIAN MALOȘ assisted by JOHN AKEROYD, NAT PAGE, RĂZVAN POPA

FUNDAȚIA ADEPT TRANSILVANIA

SASCHIZ, 2014

1 Contents

Introduction ...... 3

General map ...... 4

1. Some important species: potential flagship species for the farm ...... 5

2. Priority habitat 6210* - semi-natural dry grasslands ...... 6

3. Habitat 6520 - mountain hay meadows ...... 7

Maps and photographs of priority habitat areas ...... 8

4. Priority habitat 91E0*- alluvial forests ...... 18

5. Lepidopera ...... 22

6. Management recommendations ...... 34

2 Introduction

The farm is located on the southern slope of the Mesendorf river valley. The slope has a low gradient (on average it does not exceed 120), generally facing north-west, and is dissected by the large basins of the Zavoiu and Ruaru streams cutting through Upper Miocene (Pannonian) loamy and sandy loam deposits. The altitude lies between 500 and 675 m. The potential vegetation consists of temperate deciduous forest represented by EU Habitats Directive habitats 9170 – ‘sessile oak forests with Asperula odorata’, and to a lesser extent by 9170 – ‘Galio-Carpinetum oak-hornbeam forests’.

Most of these forests were cleared long ago (in the early Middle Ages, probably mostly by the Saxons from the 12th century) in order to give room to the pastures and meadows needed by Mesendorf village. Initially, the secondary grasslands would have belonged entirely to the habitats 6520 - ‘Mountain hay meadows’, and 6210* - ‘Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates, with important orchid sites’. The majority of these meadows would have had a remarkably rich flora, supporting a high level of biodiversity, especially invertebrate and small mammal communities. Today just fragments remain.

The farm lies within the SighișoaraTârnava Mare SCI Natura 2000 site (RO SCI 0227, under EU Habitats Directive), and the PodișulHârtibaciului SPA (bird protection area, RO SPA 0099).

Unfortunately, during the 20th century, the expanding theories of agronomists, trained in the new higher educational institutions, led to the destruction of ancient grasslands within the Transylvanian villages lands and beyond. This phenomenon was typical for northern temperate countries once they became part of the industrial era. The role of grasslands as producers of traditional fodder was mostly taken over by the more productive and nutritious forage crops (clover, alfalfa, vetch, maize, oats, etc.). In the meantime, the grassland area was either ploughed or replaced with pastures. This, together with the use of a wide variety of chemical products in the intensive agriculture, resulted in massive loss of species numbers and distributions as well as the destruction of some immense areas of natural grassland of inestimable scientific, cultural and landscape value.

Meșendorf village and its hinterland was no exception. The former meadows enclosed by the large basins of the Zavoiu and Roaru streams were replaced by intensively used pastures or by arable lands. The small valuable meadow areas are the least frequented by animals - being located further from the principal areas of the pastures or up against the forest edge of Padurea Morii (Mill Forest), which borders the farm in the east and where animals are rarely allowed to go. From the outset we have to say that these areas should be preserved and their enlargement encouraged through control of grazing stocking rate and even exemption from grazing on areas that could serve as centres of dispersal and expansion for the valuable species and plant communities still present within the farm.

3 Fig. 1 - Orthophotomap showing the layout of the investigated parcels on the farm. TNP Meșendorf.

4 1. Some important species: potential flagship species for the farm

Unfortunately, no priority plant species were identified on the farm. It is probable that Adenophora liliifoliais present as it appears in many other relatively nearby places within the region (i.e. Bunești and Roadeș). In the event of a future sighting, below are photographs (fig. 1a) of this species, very likely to exist in the grasslands of habitat 6520 (mountain hay meadows). However, it is worth mentioning that at least two orchid species, burnt-tip orchid (Orchis ustulata) and military orchid (Orchis militaris), both Red-listed in Romania as NT (Near Threatened), are present in certain areas of the farm, linked to habitat 6210 (semi-natural dry grasslands).

Fig. 1a - The priority species Adenophora liliifoliais may well be present in the better- preserved mesophilic meadows throughout the farm. The features of this species need careful study to avoid confusion with more common bellflower species Campanula( ). - Photo AL. S. Badarau

Among invertebrates, several species of butterflies of the genus Maculinea have been identified,Maculinea alcon and Maculinea teleius. They live in the undegraded areas of mountain hay meadows (6250) habitat, where rich populations of their host plants are still present. Also, Fenton’s Woodwhite is a threatened species of forest/grassland margins.

Large Blue Maculinea arion: Alcon Blue Maculinea alcon: IUCN Woodwhite Leptidea morsei: protected on Romanian Red vulnerable/endangered. Protected protected on Romanian Red list and EU Habitats Directive on Romanian Red list and EU list and EU Habitats Directive Habitats Directive Fenton’s Two Habitats Directive priority habitats are present on the farm, 6210* - semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates, with important orchid sites, and 91E0*- alluvial forests with willow species still bordering the creeks that separate various parcels of pasture or agricultural lands.

5 2. Priority habitat 6210* - semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates, with important orchid sites

On the map in Fig. 2 and on the orthophotomap in Fig. 3 we indicate six areas that correspond to this habitat. As can be seen, they all have a sheltered position, two of them being located on the steepest streambanks of the gullies, where they are covered 50:50% by blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) and hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) scrub. These scrub- covered surfaces should not be cleared, but allowed to partly cover the sunny and semi- sunny steeper slopes. These grasslands, also when part of a habitat mosaic, offer very good habitats for a variety of bird species, especially smaller ones – passerines or ‘songbirds’ (order Passeriformes) – small mammals and invertebrates. Birds heard calling or singing in mid-May included nightingale, skylark, golden oriole, cuckoo and a species of woodpecker. The other four areas belonging to this type of habitat are simply located in the peripheral areas of the farm, where animals are less likely to have access.

The semi-natural dry grasslands of habitat 6210* are always located in the micro- climatic conditions of steeper sunny and semi-sunny slopes and are covered with tor- grass (Brachypodium pinnatum), along with, for example, Festuca rupicola, Dorycnium herbaceum and Polygala major. Orchids are typical and must be present in order for the grassland to be considered as belonging to this priority habitat. At least two species, burnt- tip orchid (Orchis ustulata) and military orchid (Orchismilitaris), both Red-listed in Romania as NT (Near Threatened), are present in certain areas of the farm. Their populations are not numerous, with groups not exceeding 7-20 specimens of each species in each of the six identified areas of the habitat, although a population of O. militarison the steeper slopes of a fragment of this habitat on the hill (south-east of the farm walking towardsparcel 99a,

Fig. 2 – Siteing of the habitats important for the preservation of biodiversity on TNP Mesendorf farm: within red borders, the habitats 6210*- dry grasslands on calcareous substrates with orchid sites and 6520 - mountain hay meadows, parts of the 6520 habitat covering larger surfaces of the farm with mesophilic grasslands, which contain the host plants Gentiana cruciata and Sanguisorba officinalisof some priority species of butterflies of the genus Maculinea. These borders and segments of mesophilic meadows should be particularly monitored and preserved.

6 just off the track) had c.60 flowering spikes in mid-May. The lack of orchid species and the invasion by some ruderal species (few invasive aliens are present) are indicative of the degradation of this type of grassland, a process which is rather widespread all over Transylvania.

3. Habitat 6250 - mountain hay meadows and its importance in preserving some priority species of Lepidoptera (butterflies)

No species can be protected in the wild if its habitat is systematically destroyed. Among the grasslands of the mountains and high hills in Central Europe, the most widespread and also species-rich habitats are mountain hay meadows (habitat 6520), a habitat that, probably because it covers a large area, is not considered a priority. This is a mistake, as increasingly larger areas of such meadows are being converted into intensive pastures and even into industrial-agricultural land. The great richness in plant species (when the grasslands are well managed, up to 200 species/m2) sustains an even greater number (in actuality considerably greater) of invertebrates, many of which are themselves priority species.

This is indeed the case of the species of the large blue butterflies Maculinea alcon and Maculinea telejus identified on the farm. Although both are priority species, their habitat (where their entire life cycle occurs: host plants for eggs, ant species that are intermediate hosts for caterpillars, and plant species with flowers providing nectar for adults) lacks priority status. However, it is obvious we cannot protect these butterfly species without ensuring the protection of their habitat, regardless of its “non-priority” status.

We have marked on the map in Fig. 2 and on the orthophotomap in Fig. 3 three areas of these types of well-preserved grasslands with numerous species (including those important for the two priority species of butterflies).

These small areas are sheltered and animals rarely reach them, on the edge of Pădurea Morii, as well as on the furthest parcel (on top of Descior Hill). They should be exempt from grazing and through streamlined grazing on the surrounding mesophilemeadows, they will be able to act as centres of expansion and recovery for their biological diversity.

The degradation of grasslands due to overgrazing and destruction of their biological diversity, a general phenomenon in the Romanian mountains and hills, is described and illustrated in Figs 7 and 8.

7 Fig. 3 - Orthophotomap showing the location of the areas of priority habitat 6210* on TNP Mesendorf farm and segments of habitat 6520 with host plants populations for priority species of butterflies of the genus Maculinea.

8 Fig. 4 - Relatively well-preserved grasslands on TNP farm, within habitat 6210*

9 Fig. 4a - Orchis militaris (photo I. Ghira) and Orchis ustulata (photo Al. S. Badarau) present in habitat 6210* at Mesendorf.

Fig. 4b – Host plants of the two priority species of butterflies Gentiana cruciata (photo I. Ghira) for Maculinea alcon and Sanguisorba officinalis (photo Al. S. Badarau) for Maculinea teleius

10 Fig.5 - Margin of grazing-free grasslands between the edge of Padurea Morii and the farm’s agricultural land planted with corn (north-eastern end of the parcel of grassland 112a). Mainly to the south of the road, towards the forest edge, there are rich populations of Sanguisorba officinalis within mountain meadows habitat 6520 hosting populations of Maculinea.

Fig.6 - The meadows within habitat 6250 on the grasslands from the area named “Peste Vale” are being restored, since the intensity grazing of cattle and buffalo is lower than that on the sheep pastures nearby (parcels 29a, 31a, 32a, 73a.).

11 Fig.6a - Parcel 110a where the same ecological conditions as in the parcels in the above figure can be found.

12 Fig.7 – As a result of overgrazing, the mesophile mountain meadows belonging to habitat 6520 with Festuca rupicola, Festuca rubra, Poa pratensis, Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Trisetum flavescens and Deschampsia caespitosa (in yellow fragments in the grassland in July) are fragmented and replaced within an asymmetrical mosaic of anthropogenic mesophile grasslands, created by heavy grazing, with perennial rye-grass (Lolium perenne) and white or Dutch clover (Trifolium repens, green patches with scented white flower clusters and creeping stems of the clover), rich in common ruderal species. This process continues until the original grassland disappears, to be replaced by anthropogenic grassland characteristic of intensively managed fields. Under sustainable management, the exact opposite of this process needs to be encouraged, through controlled grazing. The increase in quality and diversity of grasslands will be readily observable in the future by evaluating the proportions of the two categories of phytocoenosis, semi- natural and anthropogenic, even in a mosaic clearly distinguishable by non-botanists.

13 Fig. 8 – Regarding the grasslands in the two images above, habitat 6520 has been completely destroyed and replaced by anthropogenic and intensively managed pasture covered with perennial rye-grass (Lolium perenne) and white or Dutch clover (Trifolium repens), and numerous ruderals. Shrub species such as Prunus spinosa and Crataegus monogyna are encouraged in their proliferation and aggressive expansion by burning the grassland in the autumn or spring. This practice benefits numerous coarse and thorny ruderal species of low forage value rather than herbaceous plants that constitute valuable forage. Mesophilic grasslands can become 100% covered by scrub under such management (this does not occur in the mesoxerophile and xerophile habitats mentioned above).

14 Fig. 9 - The priority Lepidoptera species Maculinea alcon Hirshcke photographed on parcel 16 a, very close to the forest margin, to the east of the dirt road that runs along the edge. These margins of the meadows must be preserved in view of the fact that the phytocoenoses of the majority of grasslands are degraded by overgrazing.

15 Fig. 10 – Proximity of the agricultural lands and the mosaic of the mesophilic grassland at the edge of parcel 112a.

Fig. 11 – Perennial rye-grass (Lolium perenne) thrives not only due to the overgrazing of mesophilic grasslands, but also because it is apparently cultivated on at least two parcels on the farm. Parcel 119a, shown here, is entirely covered with this commercial fodder crop. This happened in the last couple of years through the replacement of an important grassland segment from habitat 6250, including the two host species of Maculinea butterflies (inferred from the remnants on the parcel edge). This method of replacing some natural grasslands with fodder crops should be prevented in future.

16 Fig. 12 – The traditional method of keeping isolated trees (in this instance, wild pears, sessile oaks, oaks and hornbeams) in the area of mesophilic grassland must be maintained. They provide shelter and food for a great number of birds and small mammals as well as for numerous invertebrates. They also contribute to the aesthetic value of the landscape.

17 4. Priority habitat 91E0*- alluvial forests

Aside from the grassland formations, the gallery forests with tree and shrub willow species along the streams have a special ecological function. These are natural boundaries between the meadows and/or the more intensively farmed agricultural lands on the farm, have a special aesthetic position in the landscape and provide valuable habitats for birds, small mammals, amphibians and many invertebrates. At the same time, they act as a wildlife corridor for larger mammals, especially bears and perhaps wolves.

Unfortunately, there has been a marked tendency towards the continuous fragmentation and degradation of the forests belonging to this habitat type (they are not included in the forest inventory) and streambanks increasingly lack this natural forest component, which is so specific to them.

Fortunately on this farm, riparian trees such as native willow, ash and black alder are still maintained along the Zavoiu and Ruoru gulleys. In the future, the woodland should be maintained by avoiding the eradication of willows for the purpose of widening country roads, firewood, fences, grassland expansion, etc., which is unfortunately still common practice in the grasslands of the region. Figs 13-17

Fig. 13 Location of habitat 91E0* - alluvial forests with Salix alba and Salix fragilis on the TNP Mesendorf farm (yellow contours), bordering different parcels of grasslands and agricultural lands, constituting a valuable wildlife corridor for large mammals, small mammals as well as an excellent nesting and shelter habitat for numerous bird species. It also constitutes a biodiversity hotspot for invertebrates.

18 Fig. 14 – Orthophotomap with the location of habitat 91E0* on the farm, alluvial forests with Salix alba and Salix fragilis (yellow contours) between the different parcels of grasslands and investigated agricultural lands (red contours).

Fig. 15 – Segment of willow forest Salix alba and Salix fragilis within habitat 91E0* along Zavoiu creek, between parcels 111a and 113a.

19 Fig. 16 - Habitat 91E0* is very well maintained, with numerous species of trees, shrubs and high hygrophilic herbaceous plants in the upper basin of Zavoiu creek, in contact with the mesophilic meadows degraded by the intensive grazing of parcel 111a. It is the best preserved and the most representative area of this habitat on the farm.

20 Fig. 17 - Alluvial forests along the creeks (priority habitat 91E0*) separating the meadows with mesophilic grasslands (habitat 6520, partially) on the farm.

21 5. Lepidopera

Working method: Walking around all the parcels within the farm area, recording the Lepidoptera species (diurnal butterflies). For the nocturnal moth species (‘nocturnal butterflies’) and other nocturnal insects we used four light traps with 8 W tubes, ultraviolet light.

SPECIES OF COMMUNITY INTEREST REPORTED IN THE STUDIED AREA:

LARGECOPPER, LYCAENA DISPAR RUTILA (WERNEBURG 1864)

Lycaena dispar (male)- orig. Lycaena dispar rutila (female)- orig.

Protection status

EN, NT. Protected by the EU Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) Annex II and IV, and also by the national legislation (GEO 57/2007, amended by Law 49/2011).

Description Taxonomy: nominotypical subspecies described from England, extinct c.1850. Subsp. rutile is a widespread variant in Europe.

Description and diagnosis: The male differs from Scarce Copper (L. virgaueae) by the presence of a black spot on the dorsal surface of each wing and by the grey-blue colour of the ventral side of the hind wings. The female has the upper side of the wings orange- reddish and its hind wings are dark brown, with rows of intensely black spots.

Habitat: Hygrophilous species found along the banks of running or standing water, in marshy areas and also in other damp areas where docks (Rumex spp.) grow. It lives in any open ruderalized or semi-ruderalized habitat, on soils rich in organic matter, favorable to the development of Rumex species. It is frequent in the Danube basin and Danube Delta.

Ecology and biology: Phenology: V-VI, VII-middle IX; egg:1/2V-VI, 1/2VI-VIII; larva: end V-VII-beginning VIII, end VIII-IX-winter and feed again in IV-V. Pupa: end of IV-V; VII-VIII.

22 Biology: Two broods per year (bivoltine species). Type 2 individuals are more numerous. The eggs are laid in piles on Rumex species, especially R. hydrolapathum, R. aquaticus and Curled Dock (R. crispus, present on the farm together with R. conglomeratus and R. sanguineus) and other dock species. A female may deposit up to 500 eggs. Larvae type 2 winter in stage 2 or 3, turning from green to brown- violet. Fixed to Rumex stems, the larvae can last underwater up to 4 weeks.

Protection and preservation: Red List categories VU (Vulnerable), NT (Near Threatened). The species and its habitat are strictly protected by EU and Romanian legislation. It is widespread in Romania, sometimes with very vigorous populations. Factors that contribute to the reduction in numbers and populations are destruction of wetland habitats, drainage, pesticides, overgrazing and the burning of dry vegetation in autumn and spring. Mapping, monitoring and compliance with legislation are required.

Distribution: Sibero-European species, known from France, Central and Eastern Europe, from the Balkans to northern Turkey. In Romania, from the Danube Delta to over 1000 m in the Carpathians, in wetland areas with Rumex spp. It was recorded in the parcels 99a, 111a, 112a, 113a of the farm. A total of four specimens were observed, but the species is certainly more common. Avoidance of intensive grazing of riversides ensures the maintenance of the species in its habitat.

LARGE BLUE, MACULINEA ARION (LINNAEUS 1758)

Species of Community and national interest, it was observed on the pasture parcels 111a and 113a . Only two specimens were observed, but the species may be more common, considering the fact that the weather was not very favorable to observations.

Large Blue Maculinea arion: protected on Romania Red list and EU Habitats Directive

The larvae feed on species of thyme (Thymus spp.) and marjoram (Origanum vulgare).

23 The presence of ants of the genus Myrmicais obligatory (myrmecophily). Therefore, in order to maintain the species, appropriate conditions need to be provided for the host plant, butterfly and Myrmica host ants. Traditional agriculture and extensive grazing with cattle or buffalo will ensure the maintenance of the species in the habitats in which it has already survived.

Protection status: Habitats Directive - Council Directive 92/43/EEC, Annex II (animal and plant species of Community interest whose conservation requires the designation of special areas of conservation), as rare species. The Romanian Red List for Butterflies, Rakosy et al. 2003

Description and identification

Wingspan: 30-40 mm

Taxonomy: Besides the nominotypical subspecies, in the Transylvania, Banat and Oltenia regions of one can find ssp. ligurica, flying during July and August.

Habitat: Xerothermophilous meadows with short, not too compact herbaceous vegetation, rich in thyme. Very tolerant of moderate grazing.

Phenology: Flight: 1⁄2 V-VI; egg: end*** V-VI, larva: end*** V- 1/2VII –IV; pupa V-1/2 VI.

Biology: The eggs are deposited on early flowering species of thyme. The butterflies fly in May–June, differing phenologically from M. arion ligurica, which flies in July and early August. They often form small, unstable colonies. Males fly long distances, leaving their habitat. The larvae, well camouflaged on the basis of colour, develop up to the third moult inside the flowers, not tolerating the presence of other larvae within the same flower (larval cannibalism). After the third moult, they descend to the ground, where ants of the genus Myrmica occur. These, following a complex adoption procedure, carry the larva into the formicary, where it feeds on ant eggs and larvae. The larva pupates in spring, after hibernation. The larvae and pupae produce a secretion consumed by ants, which ensures and maintains the ants’ tolerance.

Protection and preservation: Red List categories VU (Vulnerable), NT (Near Threatened). The replacement of traditional extensive by intensive agriculture, change in the traditional mowing intervals, land abandonment and habitat degradation are just a few of the pressures to which this species is subject. In Romania vigorous populations still remain in large areas. Monitoring some of them along with the situation of the ant hosts would help establish appropriate measures for their protection and conservation.

Distribution: Sibero-European, known from temperate Spain, France, Denmark, across central, southern and south-eastern parts of Europe, as far as the Altai Mts. In Romania it has been reported from the Sub-Carpathian hills of Transylvania, Banat, Oltenia, Muntenia, Crisan, Bucovina and Moldova.

24 ALCON BLUE, MACULINEA ALCON (DENIS & SCHIFFERMÜLLER 1775)

Description and identification

Wingspan: 34-39 mm

M. alcon larva M. alcon, dorsal

Taxonomy: Although according to nomenclatural priority, the genus Phengaris Doherty, 1891 should be used, rather than MaculineaVan Eecke 1915, we believe that the species in Europe belong to the genus Maculineaand only some Asian species to the genus Phengaris. Thus we maintain the genus Maculineafor the species in Romania.

Dispute over the two taxa M. alcon and M. ”rebeli” Molecular studies suggest genetic differences by which the existence of these species can be maintained, but we believe that the authors of these studies have not analyzed authentic material in order to reveal such genetic differences. M. rebeliis a typical sub-alpine taxon (Styria, Austria). In Transylvanian habitats we have revealed significant phenological and ethological differences between M. alcon and another sub- taxon, for which the name “rebeli” is certainly undesirable. The molecular analyses of material from Transylvania, accurately collected for the two taxa, are not yet finalized.

Diagnosis: Male M. alcon is distinguished from the other species of Maculinea by the wider, black band on the outer edge of the upper side of the wings and by the absence of the black spots. Females have the upper side of their wings dark brown, lightly powdered with blue or with no blue at all. In the case of M. teleius, the iridescent blue is evident.

Habitat: marshy areas, wet meadows, which contain species of gentian (marsh gentian, Gentiana pneumonanthe or, more rarely, willow gentian, G. asclepiadea), in sub- mountainous hilly areas (400–900m). 25 Biology: The eggs are laid on G. pneumonanthe and G. asclepiadeabuds or leaves. Lacking camouflage colour, they are protected from pests by an unusually thick chorion (shell). The larvae develop inside the flowers or leaves. After the third moult, they descend to the ground, where they are found by the ants of the genus Myrmica (M. scabrinodis, M. ruginodis, M. laevinodis), adopted and carried into the formicary. The ants feed and take care of the larvae until spring, when they pupate. The predatory behaviour is more reduced than in other species of Maculinea, which allows the development of a large number of larvae within the same ant-hill.

Protection and preservation: IUCN Red List EN (Endangered), VU (Vulnerable). The main threat factors are the replacement of traditional agriculture by modern, intensive agricultural practices, land abandonment, drainage and afforestation. The number of populations is more influenced by density of ant colonies than by that of the food plants. Mapping of populations is required and specific protection measures need to be applied.

Distribution: The complex of Maculinea species (semispecies) M. alcon, M. “rebeli”, including M. xerophila and M. tolistus, has an Asian-European distribution. M. alcon is widely distributed west to east in Eastern Europe, where it is gradually replaced by M. alcon xerophila. Because of the taxonomic uncertainty, we do not know its exact distribution. In Romania it occurs in the sub-mountainous hilly regions of Bucovina, Transylvania, Crisana, Banat and Oltenia. The altitudinal distribution is 200–1000 m.

It was observed on parcels 112a, 113a, where the host plant Gentiana cruciata was also found. On the meadows used by the buffalo, G. cruciata plants were in a reasonable conservation status, not having been grazed (probably being unpalatable). Extensive grazing favours the survival of this valuable butterfly species, on which detailed studies are currently being conducted.

JERSEY TIGER MOTH, CALLIMORPHA QUADRIPUNCTARIA (PODA, 1761)

Description and identification

Wingspan: 43-60 mm

Diagnosis: By its colour and form, it is unmistakable in the Romanian fauna. It resembles Scarlet Tiger Moth (C. domunula), but C. quadripunctaria has clear, white striations (instead of white dots or spots) on the forewings.

Habitat: It has no specific habitat, being found along rivers, in floodplain forests, groves, forest edges, glades or clearings, cliffs and canyons, along old and forest roads, in warm, sunny, slightly damp places. It prefers tall herbaceous vegetation rich in plants such as Eupatorium cannabinum, Origanum vulgare, Sambucu sebulus, Stachys officinalis, Cirsium arvense and Rubus spp., feeding on their nectar when it becomes an adult. The larvae

26 are polyphagous, feeding on species such as Rubus spp., Urtica dioica, Lamium sp., Salix caprea, Eupatorium cannabinum, Senecio fuchsia and Onobrychis viciifolia.

Biology: It flies from the second half of July until early September, in a single generation.

Callimorpha quadripunctaria feeding

The larvae overwinter at a very young stage. After wintering, they feed extensively from the second half of April to the beginning of June. They pupate at the soil surface. The butterflies fly during daytime, in direct sunlight, when they also feed on nectar. At night, they are also attracted to white or ultraviolet artificial light.

Protection and preservation: The species is widespread in Romania, but due to the tidying and tree clearing along running waters in the sub-mountainous hilly region, many habitats have been damaged or destroyed. The pesticides used in agriculture and forestry also have severe negative effects on the populations of C. quadripunctaria.

It was identified along the gulley on parcels 111a, 113a and at the forest edge on parcels 19a, 29a, 39a and 73a. The presence of the species depends on the presence of brambles (Rubus sp.) in the semi-wet habitats of the forest edges and along the streams.

27 COMMON GLIDER, NEPTIS SAPPHO (PALLAS, 1771)

Protection status: Habitats Directive - Council Directive 92/43/EEC, Annex IV (animal and plant species of community interest whose conservation requires the designation of special areas of conservation), as a rare species. The Romanian Red List for Butterflies, Rakosy et al. 2003.

Neptis sappho, ventral, in copula Neptis sappho, dorsal

Description and identification

Wingspan: 50-58 mm

Diagnosis: On the hind wing are two bands formed by white spots. On the median plane of the forewings there are two triangle-shaped, white, adjacent patches.

Habitat: clearings and edges of deciduous forests with plenty of light and heat from the ground, and forest roads and acacia plantations. Frequent in traditionally managed forests, at altitudes between 200 and 500 m.

Phenology: flight: end IV-VI, 1⁄2 VII-beginning IX (2 gen.), egg: V-VI, larva: end VII-VIII, larva1/2 V-VII, VIII-IV, pupa: 1⁄2 IV-middle VI, VII-VIII

Biology: The eggs are laid on the leaves of Lathyrus spp. or on false acacia (Robinia pseudacacia). The larvae feed on native black vetch (L. niger) and spring vetch (L. vernus), but also on acacia leaves, which in many areas become preferential. In Romania the larvae may also feed on other Lathyrus species. Adult butterflies have a gliding, elegant flight.

Protection and preservation: Red List categories VU (Vulnerable), NT (Near Threatened). The vulnerability of this butterfly lies in the change from the traditional to intensive forms of forest management, with high density of trees, tidying of forest edges and acacia plantations, and clearing and spraying to control forest pests. In Romania there are many robust populations that provide a good representation of the species.

Distribution: Sibero-European. The western area starts in Austria and Czech Republic, extending across Eastern Europe, Ukraine, southern Urals and western Siberia to the Amur region. In Romania it is known from all provinces, being frequent in Banat, northern Oltenia and the sub-mountainous hilly areas of Transylvania. 28 It was observed within the perimeters of parcels 112a, 29a, 119a, 32a and 100a. The presence of these butterflies depends upon on the presence of vetch Lathyrus( ) species in clearings and at forest edges, as well as the presence of young plantations of acacia or scattered acacia trees. In the areas surrounding the farm, the species has average survival possibilities, provided the forest is not grazed.

CLOUDED APOLLO, PARNASSIUS MNEMOSYNE (LINNAEUS 1758)

Protection status: Habitats Directive - Council Directive 92/43/EEC, Annex IV (animal and plant species of community interest whose conservation requires the designation of special areas of conservation), as rare species. The Romanian Red List for Butterflies, Rakosy et al. 2003

Taxonomy: The nominotypical subspecies was described from south-west Finland. Subsequently, many authors have described a myriad of subspecific and infra-subspecific taxa, which in recent years have been revised by molecular techniques. Research based on molecular genetics suggests 2–3 distinct evolutionary units, one that started in the post- glacial period from multiple centres in the eastern Alps, from which western and northern Europe was populated, and another with multiple refugia extending over a wider geographical area in the Balkans and Carpathians, which populated Central, Eastern and North-eastern Europe. These phylo-geographical results confirm that the genetically differentiated populations found today in the Dobrogea, Banat, Transylvania and Moldova regions originate from different refuge microcentres.

Parnassius mnemosyne, ventral

Parnassius mnemosyne, dorsal

Description and identification: Individuals in Dobrogea and southern Moldova can be distinguished morphologically from those in Transylvania, hence ssp. wagneri and ssp. transylvanica. The populations in the southern and south-western parts of the country, assigned to ssp. distincta, differ less from the other two, with numerous transitional forms.

29 Diagnosis: the presence of black spots on the wings avoids confusion with Black-veined White (Aporia crataegi).

Phenology: flight: V-VI, at altitudes of over 1000m and in VII. It overwinters as larvae formed in the egg (VI-III-IV). Larva III (IV)-V(VI). Pupal stage 3-4 weeks.

Habitat: Meso-hygrophilic species, preferring grasslands with shrubs, forest edges or relatively moist clearings, rich in Corydalis species.

Biology: The larvae feed on various species of Corydalis. The eggs are not deposited on the host plant, but near its underground parts. A sedentary, less mobile species, these butterflies only fly in sunshine, spending the morning hours warming their bodies in the sun. Their nectar sources are usually from violet, blue or purple flowers. They make characteristic defense sounds by rubbing their legs against the hind wings. Mating takes place in the afternoon hours. After mating, the female bears a protective membranous shield (sphragis) on her abdomen, which prevents further matings.

Distribution: Central Asian-European, known from the Pyrenees, Central, southern part of North Europe, and South Europe to the Near and Middle East, and across Siberia to the Tien Shan Mountains. In Romania it is reported from all the historical provinces, from 30– 40m up to over 2000m.

Only two eggs were found on Corydalis solida on the parcel 73a. Certainly the butterfly is more widespread than the eggs found by us may indicate. For a more accurate assessment, observations should be made at the end of May, when the butterflies fly, or in April, to identify the larvae. The species has good chance of survival in the farm area provided that grazing in the forest and at its edge is limited or avoided.

30 FENTON’S WOODWHITE, LEPTIDEA MORSEI

IUCN Red List category NT (Near Threatened).Species of Community Interest, living in forest clearings and glades, the larvae feeding on Lathyrus species. It comes out of the forests at the edges to feed on nectar. Forest grazing is the determining factor for the decrease in the number of these butterflies, together with deforestation and tree planting.

Leptidea morsei (not from the site) Food plant Black pea, Lethyrusniger (not from the site)

Flight period: Mid April–May and again in June–July.

Apart from its greater size and slightly falcate forewings the species can be separated from other wood whites (Leptidea spp.) by the conspicuous gliding flight displayed by the males. It comes out of the forests at the edges to feed on nectar.

Habitat: Fenton’s Wood White lives in forest clearings and glades, almost exclusively in deciduous woods, at 250 –1,400 m. It can be seen on damp, grassy vegetation at the sunny edges of woods, in grassy woodland clearings and on regenerating woodland in grassland. This butterfly has two generations a year and hibernates at the pupal stage. The larvae feed on spring pea (Lathyrus verna) and black pea (Lathyrus niger). Forest grazing is the determining factor for the decrease in numbers of these butterflies, together with deforestation and tree planting.

Distribution: Eastern Europe and beyond, across Siberia, Mongolia, Korea, the north of China and Japan. It occurs in Czech Republic, Slovakia, eastern Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Hungary and Romania. In most countries, it is rare or very rare. This is a local species, restricted to semi-natural areas, very rare and local in the western part of its range, although the situation is unclear in many countries. It seems to be more common in Eastern Europe, but it is never abundant and is mostly declining.

It was observed in parcel 112a.

31 Other Lepidoptera species identified:

Pyrgusmalvae 112a, Pyrgusalveus 112a, 110a, Thymelicuslineola, 112a, 11a, 16a, 19,a, Thymelicussylvestris 112a, 11a, 16a, 19,a, 39a, Hesperia comma 112a, 11a, 16a, 19,a, 39a, Ochlodessylvanus 112a, 11a, 16a, 19,a, 39a, 73 a, Iphiclidespodalirius 112a, 16a, 19a, Papiliomachaon 110a Leptideasinapis 110a, 112a, 11a, 16a, 19,a, 39a, 73 a, Pierisbrassicae 100a, 29a, Pierisrapae 112a, 11a, 16a, 19,a, 39a, 73 a, Coliascroceus 110a Colyashyale 100a, 29a, Hamearislucina 112a, 16a, 19a, Lycaenaphlaeas 100a, 29a, Lycaenatityrus 112a Lycaenaalciphron 112a Cupidominimus 112a, 16a, 19a, Cupidoargiades 16a, 19,a, 39a, 73 a, Ariciaagestis 112a, 16a, 19a, Polyommatusicarus 112a, 11a, 16a, 19a, 39a, 73a, Polyommatusthersites 16a, 19a, Argynnispaphia 39a, 119a, 19a, 100a, 73a, 29a, 112a, Argynnisaglaja 100a, 73a, 29a, 112a, Argynnisniobe 119a, 19a, 100a, 73a, 29a, Agrynnisadippe 11a, 16a, 19a, 39a, 73a, Argynnislathonia 101a, Brenthisino 112a Boloriaselene 110a, Clossianadia 11a, 99a, Vanessa atalanta 73a, Vanessa cardui 101a, 19a, Inachisio 112a, Polygonia c-album 113a, Araschnialevana 29a, 99a Apatura iris 113a Apatura ilia 113a Neptisrivularis 112a Melitaeadidyma 11a, 19a, 101a, 110a, 112a, Melitaeaathalia 112a, 110a, 100a, Parargeaegeria 39a, 29a, Lasiommatamegera 113a

32 Coenonymphaarcania 110a, 73a, 112a, Cioenonymphaglycerion 110a, 73a, 112a, Coenonymphapamphylus , 119a, 19a, 100a, 73a, 29a, 112a, Aphantopushyperanthus 100a, 29a, 73a, 112a, 16a, Maniolajurtina 39a, 119a, 19a, 100a, 73a, 29a, 112a, Melanargiagalathea 119a, 19a, 100a, 73a, 29a, 112a, Minoisdryas 39a, 119a, 19a, 100a, 73a, 29a, 112a,

67 species were identified in the light traps, none of which are of special importance, being common species with a wide distribution.

PROBABLE SPECIES OF COMMUNITY INTEREST:

At the forest edge of parcel 112a we identified great burnet Sanguisorba( officinalis), the plant on which the Community Interest butterflyMaculinea teleius develops. The plant community in which great burnet often occurs, 6510 - Lowland hay-meadows (Alopecurus pratensis, Sanguisorba officinalis) on Habitats Directive Annex I, is probably present, but meadow foxtail (A. pratensis) grass flowers only in early summer and is easily overlooked. The butterfly itself was not observed, but its presence is likely.

OTHER COMMUNITY INTEREST SPECIES IDENTIFIED:

Two insect Species of Community Interest, traces of which were found at the forest edge on the perimeter of parcel 112a. •• Lucanus cervus (stag beetle) 112a. •• Cerambyx cerdo (great capricorn beetle) 112a.

Recommendations from Lepidoptera survey

1. Maintaining some surfaces ungrazed or grazed only in late summer (after 15 August), in alternation with those normally grazed. 2. Not allowing livestock to stay out on the pastures for too long. 3. Avoiding cultivation of fodder grass on the parcels of the farm. 4. Maintaining corridors at the borderline between parcels where grazing should be limited. 5. Leaving forest edges ungrazed until at least 15 August. Most species unable to find the pasture a favourable habitat take refuge in this ecotone. From these refuges, the pastures can be naturally repopulated by valuable species, provided these structures are maintained. 6. Maintaining the existing number of buffalo on the farm. 7. Conducting a study similar to the present one, to be carried out during the months of May-June, when inventories can be made for other species that probably exist on the farm.

33 Amphibians

Worth mentioning is the Yellow-bellied toad, Bombina variegata, protected under EU Habitats Directive and IUCN Red List (Least Concern). This distinctive toad (see photo) can be found in the puddles of ruts of cart-tracks and in small ponds in the area.

Yellow-bellied toad, EU protected species found in puddles and ponds in the area

6. Management recommendations

The grasslands on the perimeter of the buffalo farm are in a relatively good state of preservation, considering their use as pasture. While carrying out the field observations, we found a beneficial alternation between the grazed and ungrazed parcels, where the vegetation looked similar to that of a meadow. Traces of intense grazing were seen in a few places, or rather traces of animal presence over an extended period (99a, 111a).

By comparison with intensive sheep grazing, buffalo grazing, as it is carried out now on the farm, is much more beneficial to the survival of biodiversity and its conservation.

Recommendations

For detailed recommendations, see table in the Annex.

As regards habitat 6210*, the scrub areas between the parcels of agricultural land should be maintained as they are at the moment, without any interventions, such as burning, grazing and cutting bushes.

Regarding habitat 6520, the areas at the edge of PadureaMorii and the meadows bordering the farm should be maintained, grazing (except light aftermath grazing) prohibited from now on, and the expansion of arable crops should be prevented, at the expense of forest edges. These will serve from now on as centres for the dispersal of species and for the biodiversity restoration of the nearby grasslands on which grazing should be reduced to a low stocking rate.

Extending forage crops should be avoided at all costs at the expense of mesophilic grasslands, even of those that are degraded.

34 Also, the ratio between the grasslands with fescues (Festuca), meadow-grasses (Poa), bent-grasses (Agrostis), etc. and those which have been heavily grazed or used as access routes and which have been taken over by commercial species such as perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) and white or Dutch clover (Trifolium repens), should be monitored. Over the next ten years this ratio should increase: in other words the former should increase and the latter decrease.

Regarding habitat 91E0*, its role as a wildlife corridor and natural border between parcels should be maintained. The role of this type of alluvial forest habitat organized in a linked network is extremely important for the whole Transylvanian landscape. The trees and bushes should not be removed and the ecosystem structure should not be degraded in any way.

Regarding the priority species of butterflies, Maculinea alcon and Maculinea teleius, the populations of their host plant species should be monitored, taking into consideration their extension together with the management methods mentioned for habitat 6520.