Eucalyptus Plantations in Spain Threaten Native Biodiversity, Study Finds
A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Santiago de Compostela and Spain’s National Research Council (CSIC) has revealed that eucalyptus plantations in Spain, initially planted for economic benefits, are detrimental to local biodiversity. These plantations, which were established to support the paper and timber industries, have been found to function as 'green deserts.' This term describes areas that appear lush but support significantly less wildlife compared to native forests. The study, published in the journal Forest Ecology and Management, examined 240 sites around Fragas do Eume Natural Park in Galicia. It found that areas with a higher proportion of eucalyptus trees had lower bird species diversity. The research highlights that eucalyptus plantations, managed as single-species timber crops, provide a simpler habitat that cannot support the complex ecological roles of native woodlands. 
