Situated in the northernmost part of Europe, Finland is a country rich in biodiversity and known for its variety of unique ecosystems. This biological diversity serves as a valuable resource for the country, playing a crucial role in maintaining stable ecological balance, offering potential for scientific discoveries, and contributing to rich natural aesthetics.
A Geography That Fosters Diversity
Finland, sometimes referred to as the “land of a thousand lakes,” is a mix of vast forests, countless lakes, and coastal areas. From the archipelagos of the Baltic Sea in the south to the tundras of Lapland in the north, Finland’s topography and climatic variation make it a home to several species of plants, birds, mammals, insects and marine life.
The Finnish Forest Ecosystem
Over 70% of Finland’s total surface area is woodland. These forests are made up largely of four tree species: the pine, spruce, birch and aspen. However, it’s not just trees that make up the Finnish forest ecosystem. The understory thrives with mosses, lichens, ferns, fungus and a plethora of berry shrubs. Moreover, these forests are a sanctuary to various species of birds such as owls, woodpeckers, and crossbills. Mammals like the European brown bears, wolves, lynxes, moose, and reindeer also populate these lush green expanses.
Freshwater Life
With almost 200,000 lakes, numerous rivers, and wetlands, Finland is truly a paradise for freshwater life. These water bodies are teeming with various species of fish, waterfowl, and beavers. Some notable species include the pike, perch, zander, and the native trout which can be found in some of the cleanest waters in the world.
A Varied Coastal and Marine Life
Finland has a generous coastline lapped by the waters of the Gulf of Bothnia and the Baltic Sea. The Baltic Sea is known for its low salinity level, making the marine life quite distinctive. Numerous species of fish, sea birds, and seals thrive here. The famous Saimaa ringed seal, one of the world’s most endangered seals, can be found in the Lake Saimaa, a freshwater habitat separated from the sea during the post-glacial rebound.
The Tundra Ecosystem
In the far north, the vast expanses of Finnish Lapland hold the arctic tundra biome. Owing to the extreme cold, vegetation here is sparse and consists mainly of hardy lichens, mosses, small shrubs, and dwarf trees. Despite the harsh conditions, the region is home to resilient species like the wolverine, lemmings, Arctic fox, and is the last refuge of the seriously endangered species in Finland—the wild forest reindeer.
Measures to Protect Biological Diversity
Recognizing the country’s rich natural heritage and its ecological importance, Finland has established numerous national parks spanning across various habitats. Not only do these parks protect biodiversity, but they also provide opportunities for public education and nature-based tourism.
Finland is also proactive in participating in international cooperation for biodiversity conservation. It is a party to the Convention on Biological Diversity and is implementing the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan to prevent the loss of biodiversity.
Conclusion
Finland’s biological diversity is a testament to the country’s intact and well-preserved natural resources. This biodiversity not only contributes greatly to the ecological balance and resilience of the country but also paints a breathtaking canvas that is profoundly inspiring and spiritually uplifting.
Progressively facing the challenges of climate change and other pressures, it is even more critical now to continue the efforts towards conserving and sustainably using Finland’s biodiversity. After all, the survival and well-being of future generations depend on how we care for our natural environment today.