Ecology

The wealth of the Rhodopes is found in the numerous landmarks, unique plants and animal species. Among them is the Rhodope haberlea (Haberlea rhodopensis). The plant was first discovered in the Rhodope Mountains by the Hungarian botanist Imre Frivaldski. The plant is a relictent species, dating from the Tertiary. The haberlea was once prevalent in whole Europe, but today can be found only in Stara planina, Sredna Gora, the Rhodopes and the Tracian plain. Few deposits were also found in Greece. Haberlea’s special feature is its ability to shift to anabiosis or the so-called fake death in adverse conditions. It dehydrates its vegetative tissues and in its almost dry condition, the plant can live over two years. Then, under appropriate conditions, it may again restore its vital functions. There are deposits of Rhodope haberlea near Dyadovo and Luybenovo villages.

This region is rich in natural resources. In the Ardino district can be found also Rock Crystal, Quartz, Pegmatite, Marble, Mica, Gneiss.