Swiss Study Reveals Stinging Nettles Are Replacing Orchids Across Europe
A major Swiss-led scientific study has revealed a significant shift in Europe’s plant biodiversity. Researchers have found that nitrogen-loving plants, such as stinging nettles, are increasingly replacing rarer species like orchids across forests, meadows, and other natural habitats.
The study, supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF), provides one of the most comprehensive analyses of changes in European plant life over the past six decades. Scientists examined approximately 650,000 plant records collected between 1960 and 2020 from a large European biodiversity database.
Researchers identified a clear increase in plant species that thrive in nitrogen-rich environments. According to the study, excessive use of artificial fertilizers, intensive livestock farming, and nitrogen emissions from traffic and industry have significantly altered soil conditions across Europe.
As nutrient levels rise, plants adapted to poor soils are struggling to survive. Orchids, known for their beauty and ecological importance, are among the species being displaced by fast-growing plants such as stinging nettles.
Interestingly, Switzerland appears to be showing some positive signs. Ecologist Jürgen Dengler of the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) noted that the trend is slightly weaker in Switzerland, suggesting that regional efforts to reduce fertilizer use may be producing results. However, similar improvements have not yet been observed across much of Europe.
The study also found an increase in shade-loving plant species in grasslands. Scientists believe this is linked to denser vegetation caused by nutrient enrichment and reduced land management practices.
Surprisingly, researchers discovered that climate change currently has a smaller impact on plant diversity than expected. Vegetation appears to be responding more slowly to rising temperatures than many experts predicted.
The Swiss Alps represent an important exception. In mountainous regions, scientists have already observed warmth-loving plant species migrating from lower elevations to higher altitudes as temperatures continue to rise.
Researchers warn that protecting biodiversity will require continued efforts to reduce nitrogen pollution, improve land management, and preserve habitats for vulnerable plant species. Without action, Europe could see further declines in some of its most unique and valuable native plants.
