Status: Ongoing

Project Duration: February 2026 – February 2026

 

Challenge

Antalya is Türkiye’s most plant-rich province, home to 773 endemic species — many confined to the fragile ecosystems of Beydağları (Olympos) Coastal National Park. Four critically endangered plant species found only in this region face increasing pressure from tourism development, habitat degradation, and climate change.

Limited ecological data and insufficient public awareness increase the risk of irreversible biodiversity loss. Without updated monitoring and habitat modelling, these globally significant species remain vulnerable to extinction.

Solution

The CARE4Endemics project combines scientific research, habitat modelling, education, and public engagement to safeguard four critically endangered endemic plant species:

• Galanthus peshmenii (Pesmen snowdrop)

• Colchicum baytopiorum (Termessos autumn crocus)

• Lathyrus phaselitanus (Phaselis vetchling)

• Phlomis chimerae (Chimaera lampwick plant)

Through detailed field monitoring, GIS-based distribution modelling, training sessions in natural habitats, and awareness activities targeting tourism stakeholders and local communities, the project strengthens institutional protection frameworks and long-term stewardship.

 Project Deliverables

• 40 days of species-specific field monitoring and population surveys
• GPS-based mapping and GIS habitat modelling using the Maxent method
• Four field-based training days in species’ natural habitats
• An endemic species handbook
• A documentary film
• Four social media awareness videos

About the organisation: ANTOK is one of the few NGOs in Antalya with the scientific capacity to conduct species and habitat conservation research. Most of its members are highly qualified researchers, many at PhD level, working voluntarily in alignment with the organisation’s conservation mission.

ANTOK implements research-based conservation action plans, develops educational materials, and leads awareness and visibility initiatives to protect Antalya’s unique biodiversity. The organisation combines scientific expertise with strong local engagement to deliver practical, long-term conservation solutions.