'Mediterranean Alps' checklist of vascular plants: the first data collection on alpine mediterranean flora functional trait

The southern part of the European Alps represents a biogeographical crossroads between the Mediterranean and Alpine regions, characterized by high diversity of plant species, especially endemics. In this study, we focused on three sectors of the SOIUSA classification: i) Ligurian Alps; ii) Maritime Alps; and iii) Alps and Prealps of Provence. The first checklist is presented and includes key plant traits and information on their conservation status. A first compilation of taxa was obtained from previous studies; the nomenclature was checked following the International Plant Names Index. Species’ occurrence was verified by means of national databases (e.g., Silene Nature, Portal to the Flora of Italy), herbarium specimens, and expert validations. The functional traits data were obtained from databases (e.g., TRY, GIFT and dataflor). Conservation data were obtained from IUCN Red List, Habitat Directive and regional laws in terms of environmental protection and flora conservation. The list consists of 3,501 taxa of which 110 taxa are endemics or subendemics to the area. There are 152 family and the richest in species are: Asteraceae (14,9%), Poaceae (7,9%), Fabaceae (7,5%), Brassicaceae and Rosaceae (4,7%). The most abundant Raunkiaer’s life form is the Hemicryptophyte (56%), followed by Therophyte (24,4%). This study provides a FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) database, designed to be updated as taxonomic and distributional knowledge changes. The dataset is a useful tool to set the baseline for future conservation plans, biogeographic research, and climate change monitoring, where shifts in distributions or extinctions can serve as ecological indicators.