Micrometeorology of the agricultural terraces and stone walls and impacts on biodiversity in the Mediterranean landscape of Greece

Agricultural terraces and stone walls present a characteristic view of the Mediterranean landscape, and are vital in relation to the conservation of biodiversity, ecological functionality and cultural heritage. The aim of the study is to identify the contribution of micrometeorology of the agricultural terraces and stone walls, and impacts on the biodiversity of the Mediterranean landscape. The literature review survey indicates that terraces and stone walls provide various vital goods and services, and are potential and interesting assets for the development of the Greek areas. It is noteworthy that agricultural terraces and stone walls are an important habitat for biodiversity and they are creating multiple microenvironments enhancing its conservation and sustaining the stability of the ecosystem. Consequently, these landscape elements should be preserved as they favour the components of biodiversity, which are the source of our food and medicines, fibres, fuels and industrial products. The utilisation of the biodiversity components contributes substantially to the economy and the development of tourism.