The Polytechnic University of Cartagena has launched the project “Actions for the recovery and conservation of the endangered species of Cartagena rockrose” to increase the number of specimens of the species and raise awareness of its situation.

The Polytechnic University of Cartagena has launched the project “Actions for the recovery and conservation of the endangered species of Cartagena rockrose (Cistus heterophyllus subsp. carthaginensis)” with the support of the Biodiversity Foundation of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Food and Environment.

Four main tasks will be carried out to improve their conservation. The first of these is the identification at the molecular level of pure specimens of hybrid Cistus heterophyllus subsp. carthaginensis (Cistus x clausonis). This will serve to increase the number of individuals in population centers, as well as increase the number of populations with the reintroduction of 150 specimens with pure phenotype.

Another of its main objectives will be to safeguard in the long term the greatest genetic diversity of the species with the collection of seeds from the wild population for conservation in germplasm banks.

It also aims to involve society in its conservation through the dissemination of a monograph on the species, a children’s publication and other dissemination materials in audiovisual format. There will also be environmental volunteering activities and workshops with experts to raise awareness among most residents about the situation of the rockrose in Cartagena.