Biogeographia – The Journal of Integrative Biogeography

In the last decades, urbanization has led to drastic changes in ecosystems. Although this phenomenon is one of the greatest threats to biodiversity, cities can host a high richness of biological diversity. Several authors have recently emphasized the role of urban biodiversity in mitigating the effects of climate change and in providing benefits to citizens. In this study, I investigate the orchid flora of the city of Cagliari. Although the Mediterranean cities have a significant native flora, purely floristic works in urban ecosystems are still rare. During a thirteen-year study I encountered seventeen species, two subspecies and three hybrids. However, three taxa were no longer found. This inventory can support urban conservation policies and their implementation in the development of sustainable cities.