The aquatic and coastal vegetation of Lake Prespa in Macedonia was thoroughly studied in the 1960s. However, the results of this study are now outdated, and moreover, no detailed map has ever been produced to show the distribution of the various vegetation types. Delineating the different habitat types is crucial for determining their value at both local and global levels. This would also be the first step in identifying the threats they face, thereby assessing their conservation status and potential for long-term sustainability.

Recognizing the above-mentioned issues, in 2018, Prof. Dr. Ljupcho Melovski and Dr. Yorgos Fotiadis initiated and led the identification, assessment, and mapping of the coastal and lake habitat types in Lake Prespa.

Through fieldwork and analysis, 19 different habitat types were identified (Figure 1), six of which are listed in Annex I of the European Union Habitats Directive. Two of these are considered priority habitats (naturally found only within the borders of the European Union and threatened with permanent disappearance): alder forests and Pannonian sand steppes. These habitats are found exclusively on the Macedonian side of the lake and do not occur at any other site in Macedonia.

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