WetFlyAmphibia is a project funded by the LIFE programme of the EU and led by the National Park of the Casentinesi Forests, Monte Falterona and Campigna, together with other 5 partners (two universities, the community of the local municipalities, an environmental private company and the Italian Forestry Corps). The project aims to conserve the National Park’s wetlands, and to improve the conservation status of local flora, of specific endangered amphibian populations (especially the Apennine yellow-bellied toad – Bombina pachypus) and butterflies.

These populations have been at risk for 30-40 years due to the alteration and reduction of species habitats and breeding sites.

The project involves researchers and naturalists but above all the inhabitants of the intervention sites, such as breeders and farmers of the Apennine between the neighbouring areas of Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany. With its 36,000 ha, it represents one of the most forested parks in Italy and contains a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Sasso Fratino Nature Reserve.

Each animal and vegetal species, regardless its size, performs and carries out a specific role in the ecosystem. Several studies point out how biodiversity loss implies effects of a larger scale: i.e., from food and energy insecurity, to increased disaster vulnerability (floods or tropical storms), from health decrease in human societies, to reduced availability and quality of water resources and impoverishment of cultural traditions. A healthy and resilient ecosystem can tolerate disorders, diseases or climate changes.

The aim is to showcase the activities and the variety of interventions that are carried out in the field of biodiversity conservation, climate change adaptation strategies and monitoring of pollutants with impacts on human health.