Conservation of endemic plants from the Katanga copper belt (DR Congo)

The Katanga copper belt, where natural outcrops of copper-rich rocks are colonised by highly original plant communities, has been recognised as a hotspot for metallophyte species. The flora comprises more than 600 species from which 30 are endemics. These plants represent a valuable phytogenetic resource for revegetation and restoration programs, for the phytostabilisation and for the remediation of heavy metal pollutions. However, the flora of metalliferous soils is threatened by mining activities in Katanga. Actions aiming at preserving these species are therefore urgent. Since 2007, a unique conservation project has been launched by scientists supported by a mining company. The aim is to elaborate a program that allows biodiversity conservation while being compatible with mining activities. The project combines in-situ and ex-situ conservation strategies involving ecosystem reconstruction, species translocations, protected areas designation and the development of seed banks in Belgium and in Katanga.