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Advanced Botanical Research in the Mediterranean Area: Studies in Honor...
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Advanced Botanical Research in the Mediterranean Area: Studies in Honor of Prof. Francesco Maria Raimondo on the Occasion of His 80th Birthday

A special issue of Plants (ISSN 2223-7747).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 1 December 2024 | Viewed by 5518

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Giuseppe Venturella

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Palermo, Italy
Interests: fungal and plant taxonomy; biodiversity; medicinal mushrooms; forest and urban diversity
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Gianniantonio Domina

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Associate Professor, Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences (SAAF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Interests: plant nomenclature; taxonomy; Mediterranean flora; alien plants; conservation

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue is a collection of botanical articles published in honor of Professor Francesco Maria Raimondo to celebrate his 80th birthday and his activity in the field of botany. their will be a collection of contributions from scholars and colleagues who know and often collaborate with him on different aspects of botany in the Mediterranean area. Flora is one of Raimondo’s major scientific interests, which was investigated by him from the points of view of systematics, chorology, phytogeography and ecology; in particular, he has discovered and described new Mediterranean species. Other research carried out by Prof. Raimondo has been related to the biodiversity of different taxonomic groups in the Mediterranean area, with particular regard for Mountain vegetation, wetlands, cartography, geobotany, ornamental flora of parks and gardens, phytochemistry, etc.

This Special Issue will include all of these aspects of the most advanced botanical research in the Mediterranean Area.

Prof. Dr. Giuseppe Venturella
Dr. Gianniantonio Domina
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Plants is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Mediterranean
  • plant Science
  • flora
  • vegetation
  • taxonomy
  • conservation
  • phytochemistry
  • aliens
  • fungi
  • lichens
  • bryophytes
  • ornamental plants
  • seed banks

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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20 pages, 2080 KiB  
Article
Relicts of Threatened Biodiversity: Similarities and Differences among the 7230 EU Habitat Plant Communities on Montane Plateaus of Central Apennines, Italy
by Giampiero Ciaschetti, Safiya Praleskouskaya and Roberto Venanzoni
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1282; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101282 - 7 May 2024
Viewed by 280
Abstract
The habitats protected by the European Union (EU) include most peat vegetation, such as mires, swamp mires, fens, and peat bogs—all belonging to the classes Oxycocco–Sphagnetea and Scheuchzerio–Caricetea fuscae and carrying the Habitat Codes 71xx and 72xx. These types of [...] Read more.
The habitats protected by the European Union (EU) include most peat vegetation, such as mires, swamp mires, fens, and peat bogs—all belonging to the classes Oxycocco–Sphagnetea and Scheuchzerio–Caricetea fuscae and carrying the Habitat Codes 71xx and 72xx. These types of vegetation are typical of cold and cool temperate climates, while they become rarer in Southern Europe where Mediterranean influences prevail, representing relic fragments of the past glacial climatic conditions there. Because of their limited extension and the increasing warmth and drought due to climate change, they are seriously threatened. Even if many studies were performed, their richness and distribution across Europe are still not well–understood, and only a few examples are known from the Central and Southern Apennines to date. In order to provide the syntaxonomical classification of the alkaline fens referable to the EU Habitat 7230 found on the mountain plateaus of the Central Apennines, we analyzed their species structure and flora composition, together with their chorological and ecological characteristics. We also evaluated their conservation status, pressures, and threats. The alkaline fens of the Central Apennines are found to be poorer in diagnostic species when compared to similar communities of Central and Northern Europe. However, they are rich in the species of the surrounding meadows and pastures. Among them, the new subassociation Caricetum davallianae caricetosum hostianae is described. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Botanical Research in the Mediterranean Area: Studies in Honor of Prof. Francesco Maria Raimondo on the Occasion of His 80th Birthday)
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44 pages, 524 KiB  
Article
The Greuter Herbarium in Palermo: An Inventory of Its Type Specimens Available Online, with Some Thoughts on Type Terminology (Occasional Papers from the Herbarium Greuter, N° 5)
by Werner Greuter
Plants 2024, 13(8), 1086; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13081086 - 12 Apr 2024
Viewed by 419
Abstract
The separately stored type herbarium of the Herbarium Greuter in Palermo is comprised of 339 sheets, corresponding to 336 specimens pertaining to 328 different names. Material from the Mediterranean area, especially Greece, predominates, followed by that from the Caribbean (Cuba) and Australia. The [...] Read more.
The separately stored type herbarium of the Herbarium Greuter in Palermo is comprised of 339 sheets, corresponding to 336 specimens pertaining to 328 different names. Material from the Mediterranean area, especially Greece, predominates, followed by that from the Caribbean (Cuba) and Australia. The list includes transcribed label data and links to the digital specimen images and to the protologue texts. A new type of terminology is introduced, with the terms “first-step holotype” and “second-step holotype” designating type categories parallel to the similar terms already in use for lectotypes, and the phrase “detailed here” is used as an equivalent to “designated here” in second-step typification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Botanical Research in the Mediterranean Area: Studies in Honor of Prof. Francesco Maria Raimondo on the Occasion of His 80th Birthday)
11 pages, 1208 KiB  
Article
Main Poisonous and Allergenic Plant Species in Sicilian Gardens and Parks: Applications and Recommendations for Use
by Gianniantonio Domina, Emilio Di Gristina and Giulio Barone
Plants 2024, 13(7), 1031; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13071031 - 5 Apr 2024
Viewed by 544
Abstract
This study identified the most common poisonous and allergenic plants occurring in Sicilian gardens and parks. Based on a survey conducted at 100 sites, a list was drawn up that reports the main biological and toxicological characteristics and ornamental uses of these plants. [...] Read more.
This study identified the most common poisonous and allergenic plants occurring in Sicilian gardens and parks. Based on a survey conducted at 100 sites, a list was drawn up that reports the main biological and toxicological characteristics and ornamental uses of these plants. A total of 137 taxa were recorded, of which 108 were poisonous and 32 were allergenic. The most represented families were the Solanaceae, Moraceae, Apocynaceae and Fabaceae. The most represented geographical contingents were the European and the Mediterranean. A large number of toxic and allergenic plants recorded in Sicilian parks and gardens cause gastrointestinal disorders, 21 of which are deadly poisonous. Based on the results, actions for the management of existing gardens and the construction of new ones are discussed. The importance of environmental education for the population starting from school age is stressed. These recommendations aim to preserve cultivated biodiversity and, at the same time, protect human and pet health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Botanical Research in the Mediterranean Area: Studies in Honor of Prof. Francesco Maria Raimondo on the Occasion of His 80th Birthday)
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14 pages, 1768 KiB  
Article
Wild and Micropropagated Artemisia eriantha Infusions: In Vitro Digestion Effects on Phenolic Pattern and Antioxidant Activity
by Rachele Rocchi, Marika Pellegrini, Paola Pittia and Loretta Pace
Plants 2024, 13(1), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13010085 - 27 Dec 2023
Viewed by 693
Abstract
This study investigated the in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion (GID) effects on wild and micropropagated Apennines Genepì infusions. Wild and micropropagated infusions were compared for their antioxidant activity, phenolic contents, and polyphenolic profiles before and after GID. Before digestion, the wild infusions had [...] Read more.
This study investigated the in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion (GID) effects on wild and micropropagated Apennines Genepì infusions. Wild and micropropagated infusions were compared for their antioxidant activity, phenolic contents, and polyphenolic profiles before and after GID. Before digestion, the wild infusions had higher amounts of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity than the micropropagated ones. Instead, after digestion, the differences in the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity between wild and micropropagated infusions were less pronounced. The changes in the TPC and phenolic profiles revealed the presence of several chemical transformations and rearrangements that resulted in compounds with different reactivity and antioxidant potential. Without enzyme actions, the wild infusion digest undergoes higher modifications than those obtained from the micropropagated ones. The current study offers the first concrete proof of the impact of GID on the polyphenolic chemicals present in infusions of wild and micropropagated Apennines Genepì and their antioxidant properties. Our findings are essential for future in-depth analyses of Apennine Genepì infusions and their potential impacts on human health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Botanical Research in the Mediterranean Area: Studies in Honor of Prof. Francesco Maria Raimondo on the Occasion of His 80th Birthday)
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25 pages, 6138 KiB  
Article
Plants as Symbols of Power in the Achaemenid Iconography of Ancient Persian Monuments
by Giulia Caneva, Alessandro Lazzara and Zohreh Hosseini
Plants 2023, 12(23), 3991; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12233991 - 27 Nov 2023
Viewed by 2332
Abstract
The art of the Achaemenid Empire flourished in Ancient Persia from the 6th to 4th centuries BCE, and featured stone-carved monumental structures adorned with recurring zoological and floral patterns. Such representations clearly had a symbolic meaning intimately connected to religious expression and the [...] Read more.
The art of the Achaemenid Empire flourished in Ancient Persia from the 6th to 4th centuries BCE, and featured stone-carved monumental structures adorned with recurring zoological and floral patterns. Such representations clearly had a symbolic meaning intimately connected to religious expression and the will of deities. Considering the lack of any comprehensive analysis of botanical features, we investigate the recurring plant patterns and the variety of plants depicted. An analysis of the documentation referring mainly to monuments in the two main capitals of Darius I, Persepolis and Susa, showed the presence of certain repetitive elements, such as the so-called rosettes (composed variously of Asteraceae capitula and Nymphaea flowers), palms (Phoenix dactylifera, the tree of life), pines, flowers or bunches and metamorphic elements. Some plants are described in this paper for the first time in the context of Persian iconography, such as Mandragora officinalis in offering scenes as a symbol of fertility and protection against evil spirits, Pinus brutia var. eldarica as a symbol of immortality and elevation to the gods, and the capitula of Matricaria/Leucanthemum as solar symbols. Further interesting elements include cf. Myrtus communis in some crowns and probably cf. Ephedra sp. in offering scenes. Achaemenid art was deeply influenced by the Zoroastrian religion of ancient Persia with its great attention to nature as well as by the nearby civilizations of the Mesopotamian area and Egypt. Most elements were also associated with psychotropic or medicinal attributes, which contributed to their position as symbols of power. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Botanical Research in the Mediterranean Area: Studies in Honor of Prof. Francesco Maria Raimondo on the Occasion of His 80th Birthday)
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Review

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8 pages, 251 KiB  
Review
Vertebrate Pollination of Angiosperms in the Mediterranean Area: A Review
by Benito Valdés
Plants 2024, 13(6), 895; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13060895 - 20 Mar 2024
Viewed by 572
Abstract
For a long time, it was considered that entomogamy was the only pollination mechanism in the Mediterranean area. However, data recorded in this review prove that ornithogamy and saurogamy also take place. With the exception of the nectarivorous Cinnyris osea (Nectariniidae) which pollinates [...] Read more.
For a long time, it was considered that entomogamy was the only pollination mechanism in the Mediterranean area. However, data recorded in this review prove that ornithogamy and saurogamy also take place. With the exception of the nectarivorous Cinnyris osea (Nectariniidae) which pollinates the mistletoe Picosepalus acaciae in Israel, all birds responsible for the pollination of several plant species in this area are primarily insectivorous, sedentary, or migrating passerine birds, particularly Sylvia atricapilla, S. melanocephala, Phylloscopus collibita and Parus caeruleus. They contribute, together with insects, to the pollination of Anagyris foetida, three species of Scrophularia with big flowers, Rhamnus alaternus, Brassica oleracea, and some other plants. The lacertid lizard Podarcis lilfordi acts as a pollinating agent on several W Mediterranean islands, where it effectively pollinates Euphorbia dendroides, Cneorum tricocum, and presumably Rosmarinus officinalis and Chrithmum maritimum. The flowers of some other plant species are visited by birds or by Podarcis species in the Mediterranean area, where they could also contribute to their pollination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Botanical Research in the Mediterranean Area: Studies in Honor of Prof. Francesco Maria Raimondo on the Occasion of His 80th Birthday)
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Planned Papers

The below list represents only planned manuscripts. Some of these manuscripts have not been received by the Editorial Office yet. Papers submitted to MDPI journals are subject to peer-review.

Biogeographical and ecological patterns of the bryophytic flora inhabiting the small islands surrounding the Italian Peninsula, Sicily and Sardinia.

Silvia Poponessi1,2*, Michele Aleffi3, Annalena Cogoni1,2, Antonio De Agostini1,2

1. Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09123 Cagliari, Italy.
2. Co.S.Me.Se., Consorzio per lo Studio dei Metaboliti Secondari, 09123 Cagliari, Italy.
3. Retired Professor of Systematic Botany, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy.
* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Bryophytes adaptability and stress-resistance make them excellent colonizers. Moreover, bryophytes are key components of almost all terrestrial ecosystems, from aquatic to arid to freezing cold. Bryophytes represent also a unique model to study adaptation and stress-resistance in plants.
Bryological studies in the Mediterranean area are mainly floristic-oriented, and consequently the knowledge of the autecology of the species inhabiting Mediterranean islands and islets is very scarce.
The aim of this study is to analyze the role of different physiographic and ecological variables (such as islands’ area, insularity degree, altitude, substratum type), in shaping bryophytic species richness and diversity in the small islands surrounding the Italian peninsula and its two main islands (Sicily and Sardinia). In the present study the Ellenberg indicators adapted for bryophytes were used to describe from an ecological and functional viewpoint, the species inhabiting the studied islands and to explore to what extent the islands’ features have had a role in shaping the ecological features of the bryophytic floras inhabiting them.
Within this study, an updated overview on the floristic richness and diversity of the small islands surrounding the Italian peninsula, Sicily and Sardinia was presented. The island-related floristic and ecological differences were discussed, and its drivers identified.

Keywords: Mediterranean islands, bryophytes, physiography, ecology, stress-resistance.

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