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The coastline is abundant in [[dolomite]]s from the [[triassic]] period, the [[carbonate rock]]s follows with [[limestone]] from the [[jurassic]] period and [[bituminous]] [[schist]]s, [[cretaceous]] [[porcelain]] and [[phosphate]] limestone.<ref name="geological view">{{cite web |title=SOME CONSIDERATIONS ON SEAWATER-FRESHWATER RELATIONSHIP IN ALBANIAN COASTAL AREA |url=http://www.igme.es/igme/publica/tiac-02/ALBANIA-I.pdf |website=igme.es |location=Tirana |pages=1–12 |language=English |format=PDF}}</ref>
The coastline is abundant in [[dolomite]]s from the [[triassic]] period, the [[carbonate rock]]s follows with [[limestone]] from the [[jurassic]] period and [[bituminous]] [[schist]]s, [[cretaceous]] [[porcelain]] and [[phosphate]] limestone.<ref name="geological view">{{cite web |title=SOME CONSIDERATIONS ON SEAWATER-FRESHWATER RELATIONSHIP IN ALBANIAN COASTAL AREA |url=http://www.igme.es/igme/publica/tiac-02/ALBANIA-I.pdf |website=igme.es |location=Tirana |pages=1–12 |language=English |format=PDF}}</ref>
The [[Littoral zone|littoral zone]] is represented by the western edge of the [[Maja e Çikës]]-[[anticline]] within the Ionian tectonic zone. At least 80% of this litoral zone is largely [[Rocky shore|rocky]] and high coast.<ref>{{cite book|title=Sustainable Development of Sea-Corridors and Coastal Waters: The TEN ECOPORT project in South East Europe|publisher=Springer|isbn=9783319113852|page=85|edition=Chrysostomos Stylios, Tania Floqi, Jordan Marinski, Leonardo Damiani|url=https://books.google.com/?id=OynyBwAAQBAJ&pg=PA85&lpg=PA85&dq=length+of+the+ionian+sea+albania#v=onepage&q=length%20of%20the%20ionian%20sea%20albania&f=false|date=2015-04-07}}</ref>
The [[Littoral zone|littoral zone]] is represented by the western edge of the [[Maja e Çikës]]-[[anticline]] within the Ionian tectonic zone. At least 80% of this litoral zone is largely [[Rocky shore|rocky]] and high coast.<ref>{{cite book|title=Sustainable Development of Sea-Corridors and Coastal Waters: The TEN ECOPORT project in South East Europe|publisher=Springer|isbn=9783319113852|page=85|edition=Chrysostomos Stylios, Tania Floqi, Jordan Marinski, Leonardo Damiani|url=https://books.google.com/?id=OynyBwAAQBAJ&pg=PA85&lpg=PA85&dq=length+of+the+ionian+sea+albania#v=onepage&q=length%20of%20the%20ionian%20sea%20albania&f=false|date=2015-04-07}}</ref>

==== Myzeqe Plain ====
{{see also|Myzeqe|l1=Myzeqe Plain}}
[[File:Myzeqe.jpg|thumb|right|The plain seen from the ancient city of [[Apollonia (Illyria)|Apollonia]].]]

The [[Myzeqe|Myzeqe Plain]] is a large [[alluvial plain]] traversed by three main rivers, the [[Shkumbin]], [[Seman (river)|Seman]] and [[Vjosë]].<ref name="Myzeqe">{{cite book |title=Remote Sensing for Environmental Data in Albania: A Strategy for Integrated Management |publisher=Springer Science & Business Media, 2012 |isbn=9789401143578 |edition=Manfred F. Buchroithner |url=https://books.google.de/books?id=_7avBQAAQBAJ&pg=PT214&lpg=PT214&dq=coastal+plain+albania&source=bl&ots=Xox-cJD00p&sig=Q4l9cY5jlY6BxFh1uMppgbPy2Zw&hl=de&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiZy52H1rPdAhUHaBoKHVzMB4MQ6AEwCnoECAIQAQ#v=onepage&q=coastal%20plain%20albania&f=false |language=English}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author1=Tom Streissguth |title=Albania in Pictures |publisher=Twenty-First Century Books, 2010 |isbn=9780761363781 |page=9 |language=English}}</ref> The plain forms a large triangle between the cities of of [[Vlorë]] in the south and [[Elbasan]] in the east and the [[River mouth|mouth]] of Shkumbin in the northwest. It is mostly defined [[Geomorphology|morphologically]] by the sea and rivers, in terms of topography and soil, and also in its climate and biodiversity. The west is dotted with [[beach]]es, [[estuaries]], [[coastal dune]]s and two of the largest [[lagoon]]s and [[wetland]]s of the country, the lagoon of [[Karavasta Lagoon|Karavasta]] in the center and [[Narta Lagoon]] in the west.<ref name="Myzeqe"/>

In the plain, [[Olericulture|olericultural]] and [[Horticulture|horticultural]] crops are grown here. Part of the products grown here are placed on the domestic market throughout the country.<ref name="Myzeqe 2">{{cite web |author1=Jostina Dhimitri |title=GEOGRAPHICAL ASSESSMENTS ON THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN AGRAIAN ECONOMY AND POPULATION AFTER 1990S (CASE STUDY IN ALBANIA) |url=https://eujournal.org/index.php/esj/article/download/1309/1316 |website=eujournal.org |location=Tirana |language=English |format=PDF}}</ref> Because of its geographical position and isolation from the cold winds from the north, east and south, the climate is markedly temperate continental with influences from the Adriatic Sea in the west. It experiences mild and short winters, with low rainfalls, and long hot and dry summers.<ref name="Myzeqe 2"/>
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=== Northern Mountain Range ===
=== Northern Mountain Range ===

Revision as of 19:50, 11 September 2018

Geography of Albania
ContinentEurope
RegionSouthern Europe
Coordinates41°00′N 20°00′E / 41.000°N 20.000°E / 41.000; 20.000
AreaRanked 145
 • Total28,748 km2 (11,100 sq mi)
 • Land97,70%
 • Water2,30%
Coastline362 km (225 mi)
BordersGreece 212 km (132 mi),
Montenegro 186 km (116 mi),
Macedonia 181 km (112 mi),
Kosovo[a] 112 km (70 mi)
Highest pointMount Korab, 2,764 m (9,068 ft)
Lowest pointAdriatic Sea, 0 m
Longest riverDrin, 335 km (208 mi)
Largest lakeShkodër 530 km2 (200 sq mi)

Albania is a small country in Southeastern Europe stretching along the Adriatic and Ionian Sea inside the Mediterranean Sea with an estimated coastline length of 476 km (296 mi).[1] The country shares land border with Montenegro in the northwest, Kosovo in the northeast, the Republic of Macedonia in the east and Greece in the south.[2][3][4]

Mountains, hills and valleys cover the large majority of the country's territory. They mainly tend to run the length of the country from north to south as for instance the Albanian Alps in the north, the Sharr Mountains in the northeast, the Skanderbeg Mountains in the center, the Korab Mountains in the east, the Pindus Mountains in the southeast and the Ceraunian Mountains in the southwest alongside the Albanian Riviera. Plains and plateaus extend in the west along the Albanian Adriatic and Ionian Sea Coast within the Eastern Mediterranean Sea at the Gulf of Drin southward to the Peninsula of Karaburun.

The country is home to few of the largest and oldest bodies of freshwater in Europe. The second largest lake of Southern Europe, the Lake of Shkodër, is located in the northwest of the country surrounded by the Albanian Alps and the Adriatic Sea.[5] Nevertheless, one of the oldest continuously existing lakes in the world, the Lake of Ohrid, straddles in the southeast of the country,[6][7] while the highest tectonic lakes of the Balkan Peninsula, the Large and Small Lake of Prespa are well hidden among high mountains in the southeast.

The rivers of the country flow from the mountainous inland in the east towards the flat coast in the west and belong however to the drainage basins of the Adriatic and Black Sea.[8][9] The longest river in the country, measured from its mouth to its source, is likely the Drin that starts at the confluence of its two headwaters, the Black and White Drin. Though of particular concern is the Vjosë representing one of the last intact large river systems in Europe.

Albania is distinguished for its rich biological diversity.[10] Due to its climatic, hydrological, geological and topographical conditions, Albania is host to 30% of the entire flora and 42% of fauna of Europe.[11][12] There are 799 Albanian protected areas covering a surface of 5,216.96 square kilometres.[13] These include 2 strict nature reserves, 14 national parks, 1 marine park, 8 archaeological parks, 750 natural monuments, 22 habitat/species management areas, 5 protected landscapes, 4 protected landscapes, 4 managed resources areas and 4 ramsar wetlands.[14][15] The national parks covers a surface area of 210,668.48 hectares (2,106.6848 km2) or roughly 13.65% of the overall territory.[16]

Overview

See also: Atlas of Albania at Wikimedia Commons
A autumn view of Valbonë Valley National Park within the Albanian Alps near the border with Montenegro.

A total surface area of 28.748 square kilometres (11.100 sq mi), the country is placed in the southeastern part of the Adriatic Sea and the northeastern part of the Ionian Sea, both inside the Mediterranean Sea. It has a length of borders of about 1,094 kilometres (680 mi), 657 kilometres (408 mi) of which are taken by terrestrial borders, 316 kilometres (196 mi) of shore borders, 48 kilometres (30 mi) river borders and 73 kilometres (45 mi) of lake borders.[17][18] Inland water surface is 1,350 square kilometres (520 sq mi), composed by natural lakes 325 square kilometres (125 sq mi), coastal lagoons 130 square kilometres (50 sq mi), artificial lakes 174 square kilometres (67 sq mi) and rivers 721 kilometres (448 mi).[19]

The countries of Montenegro (173 kilometres (107 mi)) and Kosovo (114 kilometres (71 mi)) border the country in the north and northeast, respectively.[20] A significant portion of this border connects high points and follows mountain ridges through the largely inaccessible Albanian Alps. The eastern border is shared with the Republic of Macedonia, which stretches 151 kilometres (94 mi). This border is located at the tripoint between Albania, Kosovo, and Macedonia passing through the Sharr and Korab Mountains and continues until it reaches Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa.[21] The southern and southeastern border with Greece is 282 kilometres (175 mi) long.[22] The border is located at the tripoint border between Albania, Macedonia, and Greece running across the Large and Small Lake Prespa until it reaches the Ionian Sea at the Strait of Corfu.

In 2016, Albania had a population of 2.87 million (1,46 million males and 1,42 million females), ranking 136th in the world by population. The population density was 101 inhabitants per square kilometre.[23] The overall life expectancy in Albania at birth is 78 years.[24] The total fertility rate of 1.80 children per mother is one of the lowest in the world. In 2016, the population of Albania was about 2,89 million, comprising 1,447 million male and 1,443 female persons.[25] There were 38,003 live births and 20,737 deaths in Albania. The natural increase of the population was positive, as the number of births exceeded the number of deaths by 17,266. Due to external migration, the population declined by 18,307. The total dependency ratio of population in Albania is 46.8 %.

Physiographic regions

The country is divided into four physiographic regions, the Northern Mountain Range, Central Mountain Range, Southern Mountain Range and Western Lowlands with two subdivisions corresponding roughly to the Albanian Adriatic and Ionian Sea Coast.[26]

Western Lowlands

Main article: Western Lowlands

Adriatic Coast

See also: Albanian Adriatic Sea Coast
Satellite imagery illustrating the lagoon of Karavasta.

The Albanian Adriatic Sea Coast stretches from the mouth of the River of Buna next to the Lake of Shkodër in the north, across the Gulf of Drin, continuing to the Bay of Vlorë in the south.[27] The two largest coastal cities Durrës and Vlorë are located in the northern and the southern part of the region, respectively. The total length of the coastline is approximately 274 kilometres (170 mi), mostly of which are taken up by sandy beaches, wetlands and alluvial deposits built by the quaternary sediments of the rivers of Drin, Mat, Ishëm, Seman, Shkumbin, Erzen, and Vjosa. Nevertheless, the segment from the Cape of Rodon all the way to the Bay of Vlorë is relative low and flat related to the vast Plain of Myzeqe.

The coastline is lined with different habitats providing optimal conditions for a rich biodiversity of national and international significance. Of particular importance is the presence of numerous lagoons and ponds representing one of the wealthiest scenery of the country in terms of biology. Likely the lagoons of Karavasta and Narta in the immediate proximity to the sea are among the most important ones in the Mediterranean Sea. The climate of the coastline is considerably influenced by the sea and the mountains in the inland. It experiences mostly a moderately hot and sunny mediterranean climate with influences of the continental climate.

Ionian Coast

See also: Albanian Ionian Sea Coast and Albanian Riviera
The waters of Ksamil.

The Albanian Ionian Sea Coast stretches from the Peninsula of Karaburun in the north, through the Albanian Riviera, to the Straits of Corfu in the south.[28] The largest coastal city Sarandë is located in the southern part of the region, while smaller villages include Borsh, Dhermi, Himara, Qeparo, Piqeras, and Lukovë.[29] The total length of the coastline is approximately 172 kilometres (107 mi).

The region is particular fertile and known for its citrus fruits and viticulture, that has a long and special tradition in the region. The most characteristic features of the coastline are the Ceraunian Mountains, which extend nearly 100 kilometres (62 mi) along the Albanian Riviera in a southeast-northwest direction all the way from the north of Sarandë trough the Llogara Pass (1,027 metres (3,369 ft)), separating the Ceraunians from the Acroceraunians, until it attains Orikum. The mountains along the coast rises conventionally up to approximately 2,045 metres (6,709 ft).

The coastline is abundant in dolomites from the triassic period, the carbonate rocks follows with limestone from the jurassic period and bituminous schists, cretaceous porcelain and phosphate limestone.[30] The littoral zone is represented by the western edge of the Maja e Çikës-anticline within the Ionian tectonic zone. At least 80% of this litoral zone is largely rocky and high coast.[31]

Myzeqe Plain

See also: Myzeqe Plain
The plain seen from the ancient city of Apollonia.

The Myzeqe Plain is a large alluvial plain traversed by three main rivers, the Shkumbin, Seman and Vjosë.[32][33] The plain forms a large triangle between the cities of of Vlorë in the south and Elbasan in the east and the mouth of Shkumbin in the northwest. It is mostly defined morphologically by the sea and rivers, in terms of topography and soil, and also in its climate and biodiversity. The west is dotted with beaches, estuaries, coastal dunes and two of the largest lagoons and wetlands of the country, the lagoon of Karavasta in the center and Narta Lagoon in the west.[32]

In the plain, olericultural and horticultural crops are grown here. Part of the products grown here are placed on the domestic market throughout the country.[34] Because of its geographical position and isolation from the cold winds from the north, east and south, the climate is markedly temperate continental with influences from the Adriatic Sea in the west. It experiences mild and short winters, with low rainfalls, and long hot and dry summers.[34]

Northern Mountain Range

Main article: Northern Mountain Range, Albania

Albanian Alps

Further informations: Albanian Alps; See also: Albanian Alps at Wikimedia Commons
The vally of Shala seen from the village of Theth.

The composition of the great tectonic units reflects the history of the formation of the Albanian Alps. They are the southernmost continuation of the Dinaric Alps, a section of the Alpine-Himalayan orogenic belt extending from the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the Himalaya Mountains in the east. The Albanian Alps stretches in the north of the country along the border of Montenegro and Kosovo. Nevertheless, Albania encompasses the significant portion of the Alps with a surface area of 2,240 square kilometres (860 sq mi).[35] The ice ages had relatively little direct geologic influence on the Albanian Alps as no permanent ice caps existed and there is a little evidence of extensive glaciation however, the southernmost glaciers in Europe were recently discovered on the Albanian portion of the Alps.[36]

Certainly the second highest mountain in the country, Maja Jezercë is the highest mountain of the entire Dinaric Alps reaching a maximum height of 2,694 metres (8,839 ft) above the Adriatic.[37] Other high mountains includes Maja Radohimës 2,570 metres (8,430 ft), Maja Kollatës 2,554 metres (8,379 ft), Maja Gjallica 2,489 metres (8,166 ft), Maja Bogiçaj 2,405 metres (7,890 ft), Maja Koritnik 2,393 metres (7,851 ft), Maja Shkëlzen 2,404 metres (7,887 ft) and Maja e Thatë 2,404 metres (7,887 ft).

The Albanian Alps are home to many important rivers of Western Balkans. The main drainage basins of the Alps are those of the Drin and Danube Rivers.[38] Rivers on the Alps fall roughly into two categories, those that flow into the Lim and those that enter the White Drin and meet the Black Drin downstream at the Drin confluence. However, Drin dominates, draining most of the Alps with its tributaries and when measured from the source of the White Drin to the mouth of the Drin near Lezhë. But not all of the Drin flows near or parallel to the Alps. One Drin tributary is the Valbona River, which drains into the Adriatic Sea, and its eastern tributary the Gashi River.

Central Mountain Range

Main article: Central Mountain Range, Albania

Korab Mountains

Further informations: Korab; See also: Korab Mountains at Wikimedia Commons
A typical landscape within the Mali i Bardhë.

The Korab Mountains are the most defining feature of eastern Albania. They stretch in north-south direction along the tripoint of Albania, Macedonia and Kosovo up to Lake Ohrid. The mountain chain is part of the inner Albanides within the Dinarido-Albanido-Hellenides organic belt. The composition of the mountains is of mainly with Paleozoic limestones and dolomites, including numerous fossils.[39] Located about 2,000 metres (6,600 ft) above the Adriatic, the mountains are characterized by an extremely fragmented, rugged alpine landscape hosting a great diversity of ecosystems and biodiversity. The Mount Korab is the highest summit on the range as well one of the highest in the Balkans standing at 2,764 metres (9,068 ft).[40]

Other high mountains are Maja Gjallica 2,489 metres (8,166 ft), Maja Koritnik 2,393 metres (7,851 ft), Maja e Pikellimes 2,392 metres (7,848 ft), Mali i Gramës 2,345 metres (7,694 ft) and Maja e Velivarit 2,375 metres (7,792 ft).[41]

Korab is renowned for its 39 glacial lakes situated between 2,300 metres (7,500 ft) elevation above the Adriatic with Gramë Lake being the largest and the deepest.[42]

Southern Mountain Range

Main article: Southern Albanian Highlands

Ceraunian Mountains

Further informations: Ceraunian Mountains; See also: Ceraunians at Wikimedia Commons
A view of the Albanian Riviera, from the Llogara National Park.

The Ceraunian Mountains, a coastal mountain range in southwestern Albania, stretches about 100 kilometres (62 mi) one the Ionian Sea from Sarandë in south-east-northwest direction along the Albanian Riviera Orikum. The relief is varied, with many mountain passes, canyons, gorges, hills and other landforms. The mountains are characterized by housing Black pines, Bulgarian firs, Bosnian pines and Ash trees. The mountain chain is home to many large mammals, including brown bears, grey wolves, lynx, golden eagles and others. The highest point on the chain is Maja e Çikës, that rises to an elevation of 2,045 metres (6,709 ft) above the Adriatic. From the peak, there is a view of the Albanian Riviera, the northern Ionian Islands as well as the Italian coast of Apulia and Otranto. The section has wide and long beaches, with a number of bays and headlands.

Stretching until the Llogara Pass at 1,027 metres (3,369 ft), the mountain chain gets separated into the Ceraunians in the west and the Akroceraunians (or Reza e Kanalit) in the east within the Karaburun Peninsula.[43] The villages of Palasë, Dhërmi, Vuno, Himarë, Qeparo, Borsh, Pilur, Kudhës and Ilias are located on the Ceraunian range. The Llogara National Park covers an area of 10,100 square metres (109,000 sq ft) and

Karaburun Peninsula

Further informations: Karaburun Peninsula; See also: Karaburun Peninsula at Wikimedia Commons
A scenic view of Gjiri i Gramës.

The Karaburun Peninsula is situated at the eastern side of Strait of Otranto, where the Adriatic Sea meets the Ionian Sea. Its area is 62 square kilometres (24 sq mi), having a length of 16 kilometres (9.9 mi), and a width of only 5 kilometres (3.1 mi).[44] The Mesokanali is the narrow channel, that separates the peninsula from the Sazan Island. Geologically, it is made up of carbonic limestone, dating back to the Mesozoic period, while in the northwestern it is composed of terrigenous sediment.[45] Furthermore, these formations have been continuously under the effect of Karst and are exploited as marble. The relief of the peninsula comprises a number of hills with an average altitude of about 800 metres (2,600 ft) above the Adriatic. The highest summits are Maja e Ilqës 733 metres (2,405 ft), Maja e Flamurit 826 metres (2,710 ft) and Maja Çadëri 839 metres (2,753 ft).[46]

The coastal landscape is characterized by a rough relief, that dips vertically into the Ionian Sea, it features several solitary peaks, large canyons, bays, caves and gulfs. Examples of typical landforms include Gjipe Canyon, Gjiri i Arushës, Gjiri i Dafinës, Gjiri i Gramës and so on. The geological evolution has formed also capes such as Haxhi Aliu, Galloveci and Kepi i Gjuhëzës, and other of 20 caves along the entire shoreline.

The climate is mediterranean, having hot summers and generally warm to cool, dry winters. Due to its climatic, hydrological and geological conditions, the area is characterized by its unique flora and fauna. Most of the territory consists of forests and is relatively well preserved, it includes many types of trees, such as Mediterranean oak, Manna ash, Kermes oak and Field maple.[47]

Hydrology

See also: Mountains, Rockies, Bays, Lakes, Islands, Lagoons, Rivers, and Mountain passes of Albania
View from Apollonia across the Myzeqe plain to the north.

Biogeographically, Albania falls within the Alpine and Mediterranean Basin. The Albanian Mediterranean Basin is home to 68 percent of Albania's population.[48] Albania belongs to the Dinarides that forms the southern section of the Alpide belt, extending south from the Southern Alps in Central Europe along the east coast of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas towards the Aegean Sea. The Albanian Alps are the southernmost section of the Dinaric Alps,

Map of drainage systems and drainage divide in Albania.
A panoramic view of Lake Butrint.

The territory of Albania covers about 65% of a total water area of 43,905 square kilometres (16,952 sq mi).[49] River mouths and deltas, lagoons, abandoned riverbeds, marsh labyrinths, sandy or rocky beaches, dunes covered with vegetation, dense forests represents the littoral of Albania. Albania has around 247 natural lakes, mostly of karstic or glacial origin.[50] Its largest lakes are Shkodër in the northwest, Ohrid, Prespa and Small Prespa in the southeast and Butrint in the southwest. Albania is also home to many lagoons, such as Karavasta, Patoku, Narta, Kunë-Vain and Butrint.[51]

The northern, central and southern mountain ranges divide Albania into nearly equal drainage systems. It has a dense network of about 152 rivers and streams, forming at least 10 large rivers flowing from east to west, mainly discharging towards the Adriatic sea. The rivers of Albania are characterized by a high flow rate.[52] There are two catchment basins such as the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea basins. The eight rivers are the Drin 285 kilometres (177 mi), Vjosë 192 kilometres (119 mi), Shkumbin 181 kilometres (112 mi), Mat 115 kilometres (71 mi), Erzen 108 kilometres (67 mi), Seman 85 kilometres (53 mi), Ishëm 74 kilometres (46 mi), and the Buna 74 kilometres (46 mi).

The Vjosa River is considered to be Europe's last wild river.[53]

Nearly all of the precipitation that falls on Albania drains into the rivers and reaches the coast on the west without even leaving the country. In the north, only one small stream escapes Albania. In the south, an even smaller rivulet drains into Greece. Due to the topographical divide is east of the border with the Republic of Macedonia. An extensive portion of the basin of the White Drin is in the Dukagjin region across the northeastern border with Kosovo. The Lake of Ohrid, Lake of Prespa and the Small Lake of Prespa on the southeast, as well as the streams that flow into them, drain into the Black Drin. The watershed divide in the south also dips nearly 75 km (47 mi) into Greece at one point. Several tributaries of the Vjosa River rise in that area.

The longest river located in the Albanian territory is the Drin, with a length of 285 kilometres (177 mi) and a catchment area of 5,957 km2 (2,300 sq mi). It is fed by melting snows from the northern Albanian Alps and the eastern Korab Mountains and by the more evenly distributed seasonal precipitation of that area. Its flow does not have the extreme variations characteristic of nearly all other rivers in Albania. As it collects from the Adriatic portion of Kosovo's watersheds and the Lake Prespa and Small Prespa Lake drains to the Lake Ohrid along an underground stream, its total basin encompasses about 15,540 km2 (6,000 sq mi). The Seman and Vjosa Rivers are the only other rivers that are longer than 160 km (99 mi) and having basins larger than 2,600 km2 (1,004 sq mi).

Climate and biodiversity

Main articles: Climate, Biodiversity, and Protected areas of Albania
Subarctic climate on the Albanian Alps, view from the Valbonë Valley.

Considering the relatively small area of Albania, it has a variable and complex climate. Its diverse regions have a remarkable range of microclimates, with the weather system on the coasts contrasting with that prevailing in the interior. Moreover, the weather varies from the north and tword :-] the south and the west to the east. Albania occupies the climate ranges from temperate climate on the coasts to continental climate in the interior.[54] The warmest areas of the country are at the coasts, which are characterized by a Mediterranean climate (Csa, Csb and Cfa) as defined by the Köppen climate classification. The highlands experiences a Oceanic climate. Winters in Albania are characteristically mild and wet while summers are warm and dry. The northern areas of country such as the Albanian Alps experiences Subarctic climate with frequently very cold winters, and short, mild summers.

Pinus mugo are endemic on the Albanian Alps.

The lowlands of Albania have mild winters, averaging about 7 °C (45 °F). The summer temperatures average 32 °C (90 °F), however, humidity is low. In the southern lowlands, specifically the areas on the Ionian sea, temperatures average about 5 °C (41 °F) in the winter and 30 °C (86 °F) during the summer.

Although a small territory, Albania can be subdivided between a number of ecoregions, due to its climatic, hydrological, geological and topographical conditions, which makes the country one of the richest in Europe in terms of biodiversity. 30% of the entire flora and 42% of fauna in Europe is found in the country.[55] Albania is part of the Boreal Kingdom specifically, part of the Illyrian province of the Circumboreal Region within the Boreal kingdom. The country is divided into four ecoregions, among them are the Illyrian deciduous forests, Dinaric Alpine mixed forests, Balkan mixed forests and Pindus Mountains mixed forests. Further, Biomes in Albania include Temperate broadleaf and mixed forest and Mediterranean forests, woodlands, and scrub, forming part of the Palearctic ecozone. Within the country's territory, there are 799 protected areas covering a surface of 5,216.96 square kilometres.[56][57][58][59]

See also

Notes

a.   ^ Template:Kosovo-note

References

  1. ^ R. Eftimi. "SOME CONSIDERATIONS ON SEAWATER-FRESHWATER RELATIONSHIP IN ALBANIAN COASTAL AREA" (PDF). ITA Consult.
  2. ^ "Albania country profile". bbc.com. Europe. 19 June 2017.
  3. ^ "Introduction" (PDF). dspace.epoka.edu.al. Albania has 28.748 square kilometers area and the length of the borderline of the Republic of Albania is 1094 km, of which 657 km land border, 316 km of coastline, 48 km and 73 km through rivers dividing line through the lakes.
  4. ^ "ALBANIA". cia.gov. Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Ionian Sea, between Greece to the south and Montenegro and Kosovo to the north
  5. ^ "IBAC 2012 vol.2" (PDF). dspace.epoka.edu.al. p. 253. In the North-Western part of the country, there is the Shkoder Lake, which is the largest in the Balkan Peninsula.
  6. ^ "Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Ohrid region". whc.unesco.org. pp. UNESCO. Situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, the town of Ohrid is one of the oldest human settlements in Europe; Lake Ohrid is a superlative natural phenomenon, providing refuge for numerous endemic and relict freshwater species of flora and fauna dating from the tertiary period. As a deep and ancient lake of tectonic origin, Lake Ohrid has existed continuously for approximately two to three million years.
  7. ^ "Lake Ohrid; Invest in Macedonia – Agency for Foreign Investments of the Republic of Macedonia". InvestInMacedonia.com. Archived from the original on 14 September 2008. Retrieved 3 June 2017. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  8. ^ United Nations Economic Commission for Europe. "DRAINAGE BASIN OF THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA" (PDF). unece.org. pp. 14–18.
  9. ^ United Nations Economic Commission for Europe. "DRAINAGE BASIN OF THE BLACK SEA" (PDF). unece.org. pp. 5 & 18.
  10. ^ "Introduction" (PDF). dspace.epoka.edu.al. p. 252. Although a small country, Albania has rich physical geography features. The variation of geomorphology, climate, biological diversity, rivers and lakes create favorable conditions. These features affected on human and their activities.
  11. ^ "Biodiversity Albania". climatechangepost.com. Some of the 30% of the European plant species, and 42% of the European mammals can be found in the country. Albania's variety of wetlands, lagoons and large lakes also provide critical winter habitat for migratory birds (1).
  12. ^ "BIODIVERSITY IN ALBANIA REPORT ON NATIONAL SITUATION OF BIODIVERSITY IN ALBANIA" (PDF). macfungi.webs.com. p. 2. Approximately 30% of all European floras occur in Albania.
  13. ^ "Albania, Europe". protectedplanet.net.
  14. ^ "Protected Areas System in Albania" (PDF). tap-ag.com. p. 5.
  15. ^ "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 2011-01-12. Retrieved 2010-11-28. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  16. ^ Përshkrimi i Rrjetit aktual të zonave të mbrojtura
  17. ^ "THE INFLUENCE OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHIC FEATURES IN ALBANIA ON HUMAN, CULTURE AND SPATIAL" (PDF). dspace.epoka.edu.al. p. 2.
  18. ^ Sustainable Development of Sea-Corridors and Coastal Waters: The TEN ECOPORT project in South East Europe (Chrysostomos Stylios, Tania Floqi, Jordan Marinski, Leonardo Damiani ed.). Springer. 2015-04-07. p. 85. ISBN 9783319113852.
  19. ^ Assessing the Comparative Advantage of Wheat Produced in Albania (Luce Agraja ed.). Cuvillier Verlag. 2006. p. 7. ISBN 9783867279994.
  20. ^ "Geografie - Albanien". uni-koblenz.de (in German). Angrenzende Länder - Griechenland 282 km
  21. ^ The Green Belt of Europe: From Vision to Reality (Andrew Terry, Karin Ullrich, Uwe Riecken ed.). IUCN. 2006. p. 68. ISBN 9782831709451.
  22. ^ "Geografie - Albanien". uni-koblenz.de (in German). Angrenzende Länder - Griechenland 282 km
  23. ^ "Population of Albania" (PDF). instat.gov.al. p. 1. The population of Albania on January 1st is 2,886,026 inhabitants, compared to the population of 2015 there is a decrease of 6,276 inhabitants. The sex ratio of this population is 102.6 males for 100 females. The median age of the population of Albania on January the 1st 2015 is 34.7 years.
  24. ^ "Life expectancy at birth (years) 2000-2015". gamapserver.who.int.
  25. ^ "Demographics of Albania 2016". countrymeters.info. 30 June 2017.
  26. ^ Universiteti Shtetëror i Tiranës (1964). "Buletini i i Universitetit Shteteror te Tiranes": 110. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help)
  27. ^ Sustainable Development of Sea-Corridors and Coastal Waters: The TEN ECOPORT project in South East Europe (Chrysostomos Stylios, Tania Floqi, Jordan Marinski, Leonardo Damiani ed.). Springer. 2015-04-07. p. 85. ISBN 9783319113852.
  28. ^ Sustainable Development of Sea-Corridors and Coastal Waters: The TEN ECOPORT project in South East Europe (Chrysostomos Stylios, Tania Floqi, Jordan Marinski, Leonardo Damiani ed.). Springer. 2015-04-07. p. 85. ISBN 9783319113852.
  29. ^ Gloyer, Gillian (2008). The Bradt Travel Guide Albania. Bradt Publications UK. p. 199. ISBN 1-84162-246-X.
  30. ^ "SOME CONSIDERATIONS ON SEAWATER-FRESHWATER RELATIONSHIP IN ALBANIAN COASTAL AREA" (PDF). igme.es. Tirana. pp. 1–12.
  31. ^ Sustainable Development of Sea-Corridors and Coastal Waters: The TEN ECOPORT project in South East Europe (Chrysostomos Stylios, Tania Floqi, Jordan Marinski, Leonardo Damiani ed.). Springer. 2015-04-07. p. 85. ISBN 9783319113852.
  32. ^ a b Remote Sensing for Environmental Data in Albania: A Strategy for Integrated Management (Manfred F. Buchroithner ed.). Springer Science & Business Media, 2012. ISBN 9789401143578.
  33. ^ Tom Streissguth. Albania in Pictures. Twenty-First Century Books, 2010. p. 9. ISBN 9780761363781.
  34. ^ a b Jostina Dhimitri. "GEOGRAPHICAL ASSESSMENTS ON THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN AGRAIAN ECONOMY AND POPULATION AFTER 1990S (CASE STUDY IN ALBANIA)" (PDF). eujournal.org. Tirana.
  35. ^ "ALBANIAN ALPS GEOTOPES" (PDF). lib.icimod.org. p. 1. The Alps have a width of 60 km and a length of 64 km and occupy an area of about 2020 km2 .
  36. ^ "FEASIBILITY STUDY ON ESTABLISHING A TRANSBOUNDARY PROTECTED AREA PROKLETIJE / BJESHKËT E NEMUNA MOUNTAINS" (PDf). condesan.org. p. 4. The number of glacial ponds in this area is rare for the European mainland and can only be compared to the Alps.
  37. ^ "FEASIBILITY STUDY ON ESTABLISHING A TRANSBOUNDARY PROTECTED AREA PROKLETIJE / BJESHKËT E NEMUNA MOUNTAINS" (PDF). condesan.org. p. 37. The highest peaks of Prokletije / Bjeshkët e Nemuna mountains are Maja Jezercë/ Jezerski Vrh (2694 m) in Albania.
  38. ^ "General Overview of the Transboundary Waters of Rivers, Lakes, Groundwater and Trend of them, in Albania". researchgate.net. January 2016. Vermoshi river is located in the northern tip of Albania, and it is the only river that flows into the Danube, therefore, the Vermoshi River is only tributary of Danube River in Albania.
  39. ^ "The King of the Mountains" (PDF). dmwcorg.tk. p. 24. Korab is a very rugged mountain massif that consists mainly of shale and limestone of the Palaeozoic era with bloc structures.
  40. ^ "The King of the Mountains" (PDF). dmwcorg.tk. p. 24. At 2764 meters Korab peak is one of only two summits in Europe which are the highest point for more than one country.
  41. ^ "Korab - Koritnik Natural Park Management Plan". researchgate.net. p. 25. The main mountains in the area are Maja e Pikellimes (2,392m), Gjallica Mountain (2,484m), and Korab Mountain (2,751m), which is the highest mountain on Albanian territory.
  42. ^ "FEASIBILITY STUDY ON ESTABLISHING A TRANSBOUNDARY PROTECTED AREA SHARR/ŠAR PLANINA – KORAB – DEŠAT/DESHAT" (PDF). envsec.org. p. 4.
  43. ^ "Management Plan Llogora-Rreza e Kanalit-Dukat -Orikum-TragjasRadhime-Karaburun Complex Site" (PDF). vinc.s.free.fr (in Albanian). p. 23.
  44. ^ "Llogora-Rreza e Kanalit-Dukat -Orikum-TragjasRadhime-Karaburun Complex Site" (PDF). vinc.s.free.fr. p. 24. The Karaburun Peninsula covers a surface of 62 km2; It is 16 km long and 3-5 km wide
  45. ^ "Llogora-Rreza e Kanalit-Dukat -Orikum-TragjasRadhime-Karaburun Complex Site" (PDF). vinc.s.free.fr. p. 24. From the geological point of view it is made up of carbonic limestone of Kretac era, while in the northwestern part of it, Bay of Shën Jani, it is composed of terigenic deposits.
  46. ^ "Llogora-Rreza e Kanalit-Dukat -Orikum-TragjasRadhime-Karaburun Complex Site" (PDF). vinc.s.free.fr. The relief comprises a number of hills. The average altitude from the sea levels 800 m with a number of peaks. The highest peaks are the so-called Maja e Ilqes (733 m), Maja e Flamurit (826 m) and Çadëri (839 m).
  47. ^ "Llogora-Rreza e Kanalit-Dukat -Orikum-TragjasRadhime-Karaburun Complex Site" (PDF). vinc.s.free.fr. p. 43. The most important trees in this type of forest are Quercus ilex, Fraxinus ornus, Quercus coccifera, Acer campestre, which form dense tree layer (cover 80 – 90 % in very well developed stands, height 8-10 m ).
  48. ^ [Mediterranean-Basin-2017-ecosystem-profile-English.pdf "Mediterranean Basin Biodiversity Hotspot"] (PDF). cepf.net. p. 127. {{cite web}}: Check |url= value (help)
  49. ^ "The quality of Albanian natural waters and the human impact". researchgate.net. p. 2. Retrieved 21 August 2004.
  50. ^ "The quality of Albanian natural waters and the human impact". researchgate.net. p. 134.
  51. ^ "The quality of Albanian natural waters and the human impact". researchgate.net. p. 138. Karavasta lagoon represents the largest lagoon inAlbania and is among the biggest of the Adriatic basin; - Lezha lagoons extend on both sides of the Drini delta, Ceka lagoon in the southern part of river delta, Merxhanilagoon and Kenalla pond on its northern side; - Narta lagoon (Vlora) is situated at the southern Adriaticcoast; it is 42 km2 in size and has a depth of 0.3 to 1.0 m.: - Butrinti lagoon is 16.3 km2 in size with a mean depth of14 m and a maximal depth of 21 m. It is situated in the southern part at the Ionian Sea.
  52. ^ "nces See all › 7 FiguresShare Download full-text PDF The quality of Albanian natural waters and the human impact". researchgate.net. p. 137. Albanian rivers are characterized by ahigh flow rate; the total annual mean flow is 1308 m3s1,which corresponds to an annual water volume of 41,250 km3.
  53. ^ Fred Pearce. "Scientists demand halt to damming of Europe's last wild river". newscientist.com. Retrieved 23 September 2016.
  54. ^ Inland Fisheries of Europe. Food & Agriculture Org. p. 3. ISBN 9789251033586.
  55. ^ "Biodiversity Albania". climatechangepost.com. Some of the 30% of the European plant species, and 42% of the European mammals can be found in the country. Albania's variety of wetlands, lagoons and large lakes also provide critical winter habitat for migratory birds (1).
  56. ^ "Albania, Europe". protectedplanet.net.
  57. ^ "Protected Areas System in Albania" (PDF). tap-ag.com. p. 5.
  58. ^ "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 2011-01-12. Retrieved 2010-11-28. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  59. ^ Përshkrimi i Rrjetit aktual të zonave të mbrojtura

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