The pine forest of Linguaglossa on Mount Etna: an example of integration between local resource use and conservation of natural values.

One of the most important Sicilian forests for landscape and biodiversity is the Ragabo forest, located within the municipality of Linguaglossa in the northeastern part of Mount Etna. The tree species in this forest consists almost exclusively of Calabrian pine (Pinus laricio Poir. subsp. calabrica (Loud.) Cesca et Peruzzi). Due to the abandonment of economic activities over the last few decades, the forest is partially transforming into a mixed forest with broadleaf species such as beech and oaks. This is an example of how human societies and cultures have historically created habitats that are peculiar today and can be preserved only through the continuation of traditional local practices. In fact, although it is a habitat maintained by human activity, many animal species (birds and insects) are associated with it. This study traces a thousand-year history of tree planting for resin and wood extraction in Sicily and offers suggestions for the recovery and improvement of these important economic activities, resin extraction and wood use, while maintaining landscapes of high wildlife value.