Greek meadow viper

The Greek meadow viper project centers on the conservation and study of the Greek meadow viper (Vipera graeca), one of Europe’s most endangered snake species, which inhabits high-altitude grasslands in the Pindus mountain range. The species is highly vulnerable due to its restricted range, low population densities, and exposure to accelerating climate change. The project aims to investigate how changing environmental conditions affect the species’ survival by combining ecological fieldwork with advanced genomic tools. Through population monitoring, habitat assessment, and whole-genome sequencing, it seeks to uncover genetic diversity patterns, identify local adaptations, and evaluate potential resilience or vulnerability to future climate scenarios. Additionally, it examines anthropogenic threats such as habitat degradation, grazing pressure, and disturbance from tourism. By integrating ecological and genomic data, the project aspires to inform evidence-based conservation strategies, reinforce the species’ protection status, and contribute valuable insights into the management of alpine biodiversity under climate stress.