The Falkland Islands

The flora of the Falkland Islands runs to around 170 species, and though it has many affinities with that of southern Argentina, it does include several endemics and distinct sub-species. Much of the original vegetation has been degraded by burning and subsequent heavy grazing, and now comprises dwarf-shrub maritime heath. Many of the rarer species are confined to relatively inaccessible islands where grazing pressure is less.

The MSBP is working with the newly-created Herbarium of Falklands Conservation, an NGO conservation charity. A successful collecting trip in February 2004, working with volunteers, resulted in collections of 20 species, more than 11% of the islands' flora.