Orchards in Mannebach part 2
4. Stabilization of the natural balance:
Due to their extensive use, the orchards serve as a habitat for numerous animal and plant species. Their function for networking different parts of the landscape is also important.
5. Gene reservoir:
The variety of fruit trees in Saargau plays an important role as a gene reservoir for new breeds and in the defense against diseases. The numerous types of fruit are indispensable, especially with regard to pest resistance and robustness against weather and environmental influences.
6. Species protection:
The orchards are also important for species protection, especially for the occurrence of rare and endangered bird species such as the little owl (Athene noctua), green woodpecker (Picus viridis), wryneck (Jynx torquilla) and red-backed shrike (Lanius collurio). But many small mammals, even amphibians and reptiles, find an ideal habitat in and around the orchards. Numerous insects feast on pollen and nectar from the fruit blossoms. They are food, habitat and reproduction space for over 5,000 animal and plant species. Orchard meadows are among the most biodiverse types of biotopes in Central Europe. Source: Text information board