Conservation of the stone crayfish for reviving the river ecosystems
RiverLIFE focuses on the conservation of the stone crayfish, a species of critical importance for the health and resilience of river ecosystems in Bulgaria.
Projects
Biodiversity
Projects focused on biodiversity aim to protect various animal and plant species. They include activities such as supporting species populations and their habitats, monitoring population dynamics, and addressing major threats like habitat degradation, destruction and fragmentation, poaching, climate change, and invasive species.
Such projects are essential for maintaining ecological balance and natural dynamics in the environment, as well as for ensuring ecosystem services that are vital for human well-being.
Conservation of cave-dwelling bat species
The project aims to conserve seven species of cave-dwelling bats by restoring and maintaining the entrances and the microclimatic conditions of seven caves.
For bats and people
In the Eastern Rhodopes, the natural habitats of bats are being restored, their roosting sites are being safeguarded, and local communities are being engaged to support the long-term conservation of biodiversity.
Bats and men – sharing LIFE under one roof
The first LIFE project in Bulgaria for the conservation of bats combines innovative conservation measures for protecting bats in Bulgaria with the restoration of key habitats.
Action Plan for the Conservation of the Egyptian Vulture in Bulgaria for the Period 2023–2032
Known as a “nature’s cleaner,” the Egyptian Vulture prevents the accumulation of toxins in ecosystems. It is globally endangered and one of the fastest-declining bird species.
Action Plan for the Conservation of the Balkan Chamois in Bulgaria for thge Period 2023–2032
The Balkan Chamois plays an important role in alpine and subalpine ecosystems. Through its grazing activity, the species helps maintain high-mountain meadow ecosystems.
Action Plan for the Conservation of the Lady’s Slipper Orchid in Bulgaria for the Period 2024–2033
Conserving the Lady’s Slipper Orchid supports biodiversity, strengthens pollinator populations, and safeguards the ecosystems in which it occurs. In Bulgaria, the species is extremely rare and critically endangered.
Action Plan for the Conservation of the Early Marsh Orchid and the Elder-flowered Orchid in Bulgaria for the Period 2022–2031
Orchids indicate healthy, resilient, biodiversity-rich grassland ecosystems sustaining essential biotic interactions within the habitats they occupy.
Action Plan for the Conservation of the Compton Tortoiseshell Butterfly in Bulgaria for the Period 2024–2033
As a migratory species, the Compton tortoiseshell contributes to maintaining plant diversity through pollination, thereby supporting both agricultural and natural ecosystems.
Action Plan for the Conservation of the Stone Crayfish in Bulgaria for the Period 2024–2033
The stone crayfish occupies a key trophic position in the food webs of upper river courses. Safeguarding its populations supports the integrity of freshwater ecosystems that supply a substantial proportion of drinking water resources.
Action Plan for the Conservation of the Tatarian Seakale in Bulgaria for the Period 2024–2033
The conservation of the Tatarian seakale is essential for safeguarding steppe ecosystems, which play a key role in nutrient retention and maintaining biological diversity.
Action Plan for the Conservation of the Jersey Tiger Moth in Bulgaria for the Period 2022–2031
The Jersey tiger moth serves as an important indicator of the condition of riparian forests and wet habitats. By conserving the species, we help safeguard the entire ecosystem.
Action Plan for the Conservation of Paracossulus (Catopta) thrips in Bulgaria for the Period 2024–2033
Paracossulus (Catopta) thrips is an indicator species for ecosystem condition. Declines in its populations signal habitat changes associated with soil pollution.
Biodiversity Monitoring in Central Balkan
The project supports a core objective of the Management Plan of Central Balkan National Park: the long-term conservation and monitoring of biodiversity through maintaining an optimal level of scientific knowledge.