When it comes to biodiversity, one would typically think of the Amazon rainforest, the Great Barrier Reef, or the African savannahs. However, an extraordinary wealth of biological diversity is also tucked away in Finland, a Nordic country offering an unexpected abundance of plant and animal species that thrive not only in its stunning wilderness, but also in its cities and towns.
Setting the Stage
Bound by Sweden to the west, Norway to the north, Russia to the east, and the Baltic Sea to the south, Finland presents a critical biogeographical location. It extends across the boreal, or taiga, belt, offering a diverse range of habitats–from expansive forests, thousands of lakes, extensive peatlands, to a unique archipelago and the Arctic tundra in the extreme north.
Finland’s Extraordinary Flora
The rich forests of Finland, which cover around 75% of the country’s land area, serve as the bedrock of its biodiversity. These forests are primarily composed of conifer species, particularly spruces and pines. The Finnish taiga is also home to various deciduous tree species, including birches and aspens, and a unique ground flora comprising lingonberries, blueberries, and numerous fungi species.
Finnish lakes and wetlands are enriched with aquatic plants, mosses, and lichens. The Baltic coast and island ecosystems hold salt-tolerant vegetation and are particularly notable for their grass and meadow habitats filled with flowering plants. The extreme north—Lapland—is dotted by sturdy plants adapted to survive harsh climate, such as dwarf shrubs, lichens, and mosses.
A Rich Ensemble of Fauna
The biodiversity richness of Finland extends beyond plants. It is also a sanctuary for a vast number of wildlife species. Finland’s forests host representatives of European large mammals, including brown bears, wolves, lynxes, elks, and the iconic Finnish forest reindeer.
The boreal region is a bird watcher’s paradise, holding more than 300 native bird species. These include large birds of prey, several grouse species, and numerous passerines. Finland’s most iconic bird, the Saimaa ringed seal, endemic to the Lake Saimaa, is also one of the country’s conservation priorities.
The exact number of insect species in Finland isn’t known but is estimated to be over 20,000, including over 2,400 butterfly species. The countless lakes, ponds and streams are always abuzz with diverse fish species, including pike, perch, and various salmonids.
Biodiversity and Conservation Efforts
Given the vast array of species, conservation has consistently been a priority in Finland. Some 1,880 areas are designated as nationally important, spanning across 9 national parks, 18 wilderness areas, and many other nature reserves. The Natura 2000 Network, an EU initiative to protect Europe’s most valuable and threatened species and habitats, also includes over 400 sites in Finland.
While conservation efforts have been commendable, they face challenges from climate change, habitat loss, and pollution. Engaging the general public and worldwide communities in conservation, improving habitat connectivity, and controlling invasive species require ongoing attention to prevent biodiversity loss.
Conclusion
Finland’s unique geographic location and diverse habitats make it home to an exceptional array of species. Its biodiversity delivers not only aesthetic pleasure but environmental stability and economic contributions. Observing, appreciating, and preserving this biological wealth are thus not just priorities for Finland but responsibilities shared by global communities to protect our planet’s health and sustainability. The Finnish wildlife teaches us that even in the harshest of climates, life, in all of its beautiful diverse forms, finds a way to flourish.
The diversity that thrives within Finland’s borders, both elusive and on display, and the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve it, certainly qualify this Nordic country as a “Biodiversity Haven of Europe.”