Critical interpretation of some sicilian Habitats in the Directive 92/43 EEC and new proposals for their reappraisal in the manual of Europeam Union habitats

Taking the Sicilian territory as a case study, we will present a conceptual and methodological framework for addressing some of the shortcomings of the Habitats Directive in the recognition of biotopes that deserve to be protected at the regional scale. Particular attention will be paid to highlighting that a correct delimitation of the habitats should rely on a phytosociological approach and consider the phytogeographical background driving the species assemblages and adaptive responses of biocoenoses.