Terrestrial Non-Volant Mammals in the Mediterranean Hotspot

The Mediterranean biome is characterized by a unique Mediterranean climate, diverse terrestrial ecosystems, and a rich cultural and historical heritage. This region serves as a major biodiversity hotspot, owing to the convergence of three major land masses (Europe, Asia, and Africa) and a complex interplay of biogeographical, geological, climatic processes and human activities. This chapter focuses on the diversity of terrestrial non-volant mammals within the Mediterranean biome. The region hosts 221 mammal species belonging to 24 families and 6 orders, with rodents displaying the highest species diversity. The presence of the three southern European peninsulas contributes to increased biodiversity, with numerous endemic species and unique genetic lineages. Additionally, the eastern Mediterranean and North African coastal regions serve as important convergence points for diverse faunal assemblages, further enriching the biodiversity in the Mediterranean. Recent advancements in molecular and morphological analyses have revealed numerous genetically differentiated lineages and locally adapted phenotypes within the Mediterranean biome. These intraspecific divergent lineages can have significant taxonomic implications and may represent new species or Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) of conservation concern. Conservation efforts are essential to safeguard the unique mammalian fauna and ecological balance in the Mediterranean biome, as it faces threats from habitat loss, climate change, hunting, and invasive species. Addressing these challenges and filling knowledge gaps through further research are crucial for the preservation of Mediterranean mammalian diversity.