Project description
Conserving Europe’s native Phoenix palms
Native Phoenix palms play a crucial role in Mediterranean and island ecosystems. However, their survival is increasingly threatened by climate change, habitat pressure, genetic decline, and invasive species. Supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the PHOENIX project is investigating the ecological, genetic, and environmental dynamics of native Phoenix palm species, including Phoenix theophrasti, Phoenix canariensis, and Phoenix atlantica. It will cover habitat requirements, drought tolerance, reproduction, pollination, seed dispersal, phenology, and genetic diversity of the plants. Allometric modelling and Earth Observation techniques will be used to calculate the biomass and carbon stock of the palms and assess habitat. The overall goal is to develop innovative solutions for safeguarding Phoenix palms while promoting ecological resilience and sustainable socio-economic benefits.
Objective
The native Phoenix palm species in Europe, Phoenix theophrasti and Phoenix canariensis, are key components of Mediterranean ecosystems. Found in natural groves, agricultural areas, and urban settings, these palms support regional biodiversity and ecological balance. Phoenix theophrasti primarily grows in Crete and parts of southern Turkey, thriving in coastal valleys and riparian zones, including unique forests like Vai in Crete. Phoenix canariensis is endemic to the Canary Islands, forming groves in ravines and alluvial soils. The endemic Phoenix atlantica inhabits arid regions of Cabo Verde and is also used ornamentally.
Research will explore their ecological roles, addressing habitat needs, growth, drought resistance, pollination, seed dispersal, and reproductive success. Genetic analyses will reveal diversity, gene flow, and hybridization risks, helping to protect genetic health amid environmental pressures. Phenology studies will document life cycle events critical for adaptive conservation.
Allometric models will estimate biomass and carbon storage, aiding sustainable management. Habitat mapping will incorporate Earth Observation data for monitoring spatial and temporal changes, supporting accessible geoportals for stakeholders.
Conservation actions reinforce vulnerable populations through artificial pollination, seed banking, and tailored forest management. Genetic monitoring will help to prevent hybridization and invasive species impacts.
Blending traditional knowledge with scientific insights supports sustainable use and innovative Phoenix-derived products, providing economic and environmental benefits. Dissemination through Massive Open Online Courses will promote knowledge sharing and collaboration for ongoing conservation.
This integrated approach fosters long-term conservation and sustainable management of Phoenix palms amid ecological and socio-economic challenges.
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Keywords
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Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
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Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
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Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
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Call for proposal
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(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2025-SE-01
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551 33 KALAMARIA THESSALONIKI
Greece
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