Among the diverse plant taxa of the Balkans, the genus Carex L. (Cyperaceae) is of particular interest due to its ecological importance and taxonomic complexity. However, the floristic richness of Kosovo, a central part of the Balkans, is still relatively understudied compared to neighbouring countries, partly due to historical challenges and a lack of comprehensive botanical surveys (Berisha et al. 2020). Preliminary results indicate a high diversity of Carex species in Kosovo, but inconsistencies in records and reliance on outdated data hinder accurate assessment. In addition, many Carex specimens in the Kosovo herbarium have remained unidentified or misclassified so far, emphasising the need for taxonomic revision.
The genus Carex is one of the largest and most diverse genera of vascular plants, with around 2,000 species distributed worldwide, covering a wide range of ecological habitats (Jiménez‐Mejías and Larridon 2021; POWO 2024). Recent phylogenetic studies have significantly reshaped the classification of Carex, recognising six major subgeneric lineages: Siderostictae Franch. ex Ohwi, Carex, Euthyceras Peterm., Psyllophora (Degland) Peterm., Uncinia (Pers.) Peterm., Vignea (P.Beauv. ex T.Lestib.) Heer (Villaverde et al. 2020). These subgenera are supported by molecular data, refining the previously used infrageneric classifications that often did not reflect monophyletic groups (Roalson et al. 2021). Despite its high species diversity, many subgenera and sections within Carex have been shown to be polyphyletic, necessitating a revised classification framework that incorporates both molecular and morphological traits to provide a more accurate systematic organisation (Villaverde et al. 2020, Roalson et al. 2021). This refined classification does not only aid taxonomic clarity but also enhances our understanding of evolutionary relationships and species identification within this complex genus.
Several Carex species are known for their important role in wetland ecosystems, contributing to soil stabilisation, water filtration and biodiversity conservation. Their wide distribution in temperate and boreal regions underlines their ecological adaptability and evolutionary success (Martín-Bravo et al. 2019). Taxonomically, Carex is one of the most difficult genera to study due to its highly morphological variability (e.g. Więcław et al. 2021, Więcław et al. 2022), complex hybridisation patterns (Więcław and Wilhelm 2014) and cryptic diversity (Chater 1980, Maguilla and Escudero 2016). Despite these challenges, the genus is of great importance for ecological research, habitat restoration and climate change studies as it occurs in sensitive ecosystems such as alpine, subalpine and boreal wetlands (Bernard 1990). In Europe, Carex is an important genus within plant diversity, comprising 235 species, some of which are endemic or highly protected (Kukkonen 1998; Martín‐Bravo et al. 2019, Koopman 2022). The genus is particularly well represented in mountainous regions and wetlands, where it plays a central role in the formation of vegetation communities and the maintenance of ecosystem functions. Several European countries have made considerable efforts to document the diversity of Carex, but there are still gaps, especially in less studied regions of the continent, such as the Balkans (Martín-Bravo et al. 2019).
The genus Carex is an example of the diversity on the Balkan Peninsula, where 108 native Carex species have been documented (Koopman 2022, Govaerts et al. 2021). Nevertheless, there are still many uncertainties, especially in areas such as Kosovo, where data on Carex remain sparse and fragmented. The lack of detailed studies, compounded by historical taxonomic ambiguities, leaves many question marks regarding the exact number of Carex taxa present, their distribution and ecological role. This issue highlights the urgent need for targeted floristic and taxonomic studies in Kosovo to clarify the status of Carex taxa and contribute to broader regional biodiversity assessments.
This study aims to provide a comprehensive and updated account of the genus Carex in Kosovo, filling significant knowledge gaps and resolving taxonomic ambiguities. The main objectives are to document the diversity of Carex taxa through detailed floristic inventories and herbarium revisions, to clarify taxonomic ambiguities by resolving misidentifications and discrepancies in existing records of Carex taxa in different habitats, especially in wetlands and in subalpine and alpine ecosystems. In addition, the study aims to identify rare, endemic and potentially threatened Carex taxa, assess their conservation status and propose measures for their protection. By placing these results in a broader Balkanic and European context, this research aims to improve the regional understanding of Carex diversity and fill floristic gaps in this region. Ultimately, this work will support long-term monitoring, management and conservation of sensitive ecosystems in Kosovo.
Sampling
During 2022–2024, extensive field expeditions were carried out in various habitats throughout Kosovo (Fig. 1) during three consecutive vegetative periods. The main objective of these expeditions was to document and collect as many Carex taxa as possible. All collected specimens were carefully processed and deposited in the Herbarium of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (UPH) at the University of Prishtina. In addition to this recently collected material, existing Carex herbarium vouchers were thoroughly examined. Many of these specimens had previously been either unidentified or misidentified, so a systematic taxonomic revision was required to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the documentation of Carex diversity.
Fig. 1. Map of Kosovo showing sampling sites of Carex taxa.
This work is part of a broader research initiative focusing on the genus Carex (Cyperaceae) in the Balkans, aiming to comprehensively document and analyse its diversity in the region. Kosovo is involved in this large-scale project and is making a valuable contribution to ongoing efforts to refine the taxonomy, distribution and conservation status of Carex taxa in the Balkans.
Taxonomic study
Species identification was primarily based on an upgraded key of Carex (Koopman et al. 2025), as well as on established taxonomic keys, including those from the Flora of Albania (Pils 2016), Field guide of Spanish and Portuguese sedges (Luceño et al. 2023), the Excursion Flora of Germany (Jäger et al. 2017) and the Sedges of the British Isles (Jermy et al. 2007), along with other relevant literature sources. Morphological analyses of the plant material were performed under a stereozoom microscope (KERN OZM-5) to ensure accurate identification. All specimens were deposited in the Herbarium of the University of Prishtina (UPH), Kosovo. In certain cases, which required detailed morphological comparison, scanned herbarium specimens from the Herbarium of Vienna (JACQ, https://www.jacq.org/) were used. In addition, herbarium material from the Macedonian National Herbarium (MKNH), at the Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Biology Skopje, North Macedonia, Herbarium Stetinense (SZUB) at University of Szczecin, Poland, and specimens from the private herbarium of Jac. Koopman were used to resolve taxonomic uncertainties. In addition, selected vouchers from the Herbarium of the Natural History Museum in Belgrade, Serbia, were examined on request in order to support species identification and confirm the occurrence of certain Carex taxa in the flora of Kosovo. The nomenclature of Carex taxa in this study follows Carex Europaea (Koopman 2022).
Literature sources
A wide range of literature sources mentioning Carex taxa from Kosovo were consulted for this study. They included both floristic and phytosociological publications mentioning Carex taxa. From these sources we were able to extract valuable information such as the reported locations, habitat types and ecological relationships of the taxa. Using this information, we were able to visit the reported sites, collect specimens and verify their identity in the field. Our approach was to include in the final checklist only those Carex taxa for which we have had the opportunity to observe specimens and identify them confidently to species, subspecies or variety level. Taxa that are mentioned in the literature but for which no plant material was available, or cases where the collected specimens did not match the taxa given in the literature, are discussed separately in this article to eliminate inconsistencies and clarify the entries.
Results
Confirmed Carex taxa
Our study has identified a total of 52 Carex species in the flora of Kosovo, including 19 subspecies and 1 variety, as well as 2 hybrids. There are 15 new taxa for the flora of Kosovo (Tab. 1).
Tab. 1. Newly recorded Carex taxa in Kosovo.
An alphabetical summary of all the recorded Carex taxa, along with their distribution in Kosovo, is provided in the Supplementary material (On-line Suppl. Tab. 1). In the following, we present taxonomic and detailed distributional notes for all documented taxa, including those recorded during field surveys as well as those verified from herbarium specimens.
1. Carex acuta L., Sp. Pl.: 978 (1753).
Specimens: – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Liqenat (Kuqishtë), at the vicinity of Lumbardhi i Pejës - 42° 41.488'N, 20° 5.707'E, 939 m, 29 May 2022, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Central Kosovo: Llapçevë (Rajoni i Mirushës), 42° 30.600'N, 20° 34.237'E, 461 m, 22 Jun 2023, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Lumi Drenicë (Bardh i Vogël), Fushë Kosovë, 42° 36.424'N, 21° 2.382'E, 533 m, 19 Jun 2024, Leg. Krasniqi, E.
2. Carex acutiformis Ehrh., Beitr. Naturk. 4: 43 (1789).
Specimens: – Ligatina e Hencit (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 34.869'N, 21° 2.926'E, 537 m, 12 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N [UPH - 00002035].
3. Carex aterrima Hoppe, Caricolog. Germ.: 51 (1826).
3.1. Carex aterrima subsp. aterrima
Specimens: – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Hajlë, 42° 45.195'N, 20° 6.697'E, 1779 m, 15 Jul 1987, Leg. Krivošej, Z.; – Bogiçë, 42° 34.175'N, 20° 5.687'E, 1946 m, 29 Jun 1988, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Hajlë, 42° 45.422'N, 20° 5.897'E, 1709 m, 01 Jul 1988, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Sharri Mts.: Bresanë – Opojë, 42° 6.020'N, 20° 45.964'E, 1634 m, 18 Jun 2018, Leg. Mala, Xh.; – Rrasa e Zogut, 42° 30.124'N, 20° 11.623'E, 1821 m, 29 Jun 2021, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Sharri Mts.: Vracë, 41° 54.456'N, 20° 42.829'E, 1961 m, 27 Jul 2023, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Marjash, 42° 35.745'N, 20° 5.417'E, 1968 m, 20 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.
4. Carex atrata L., Sp. Pl.: 976 (1753).
4.1. Carex atrata subsp. atrata
Specimens: – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Gjeravicë, 42° 31.708'N, 20° 8.182'E, 2307 m, 22 Jun 2011, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Gjeravicë, 42° 31.747'N, 20° 8.035'E, 2310 m, 23 Jul 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Sharri Mts.: Gryka e Jezercës, 42° 9.506'N, 21° 1.125'E, 2303 m, 29 Jun 2002, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Vracë, 41° 54.193'N, 20° 43.186'E, 2009 m, 27 Jul 2023, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Bistër, 42° 8.890'N, 20° 58.510'E, 2088 m, 09 Aug 2023, Leg. Krasniqi, E.
5. Carex brizoides L., Cent. Pl. 1: 31 (1755).
Specimens: – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Hajlë, 42° 45.870'N, 20° 5.958'E, 1859 m, 15 Jul 1987, Leg. Krivošej, Z. [UPH – 00002049]; – Hajlë, 42° 45.055'N, 20° 6.010'E, 1522 m, 03 Jul 1998 [UPH – 00002050], Leg. Millaku, F.; – Bjeshka e Rusolisë, 42° 44.563'N, 20° 14.566'E, 2201 m, 07 Aug 1987, Leg. Millaku, F. [UPH – 00002051]; – Bjeshka e Rusolisë, 42° 44.270'N, 20° 13.817'E, 1969 m, 02 Jul 2014, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH – 00002052]; – Sharri Mts.: Bistër, 42° 8.842'N, 20° 58.590'E, 2088 m, 24 Jul 2021, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH – 00002053]; – Brod, 41° 57.141'N, 20° 42.742'E, 1791 m, 20 Aug 2023, Leg. Krasniqi, E. [UPH – 00002054]; – Central Kosovo: Mali Drenicë (Llapçevë), 42° 31.104'N, 20° 35.702'E, 497 m, 30 Apr 2024, Leg. Krasniqi, E. [UPH – 00002055]; – Northern Kosovo: Banjskë (Zveçan), 42° 58.698'N, 20° 46.338'E, 641 m, 14 Jun 1986, Leg. Krivošej, Z [UPH – 00002056].
6. Carex canescens L., Sp. Pl.: 974 (1753).
6.1. Carex canescens subsp. canescens
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Bistër, 42° 8.919'N, 20° 58.531'E, 2087 m, 24 Jul 2021, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Brod, 41° 55.949'N, 20° 43.747'E, 1942 m, 01 Aug 2020, Leg. Mala, Xh.
7. Carex caryophyllea Latourr., Chlor. Lugd.: 27 (1785).
Specimens: – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Bjeshka e Rusolisë, 42° 44.315'N, 20° 13.587'E, 1889 m, 19 Jun 1988, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Bjeshka e Rusolisë, 42° 44.298'N, 20° 13.608'E, 1901 m, 23 Jun 2012, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Peklen, 42° 41.051'N, 20° 13.469'E, 1754 m, 29 Jun 2022, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Central Kosovo: Blinajë, 42° 30.416'N, 20° 58.068'E, 701 m, 13 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Golesh Mt., 42° 34.303'N, 20° 59.314'E, 906 m, 01 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Llapushnik, 42° 32.647'N, 20° 51.083'E, 951 m, 30 Apr 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Sharri Mts.: Vracë, 41° 54.242'N, 20° 43.522'E, 2190 m, 19 Jun 2023, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Luboten Mt., 42° 12.679'N, 21° 8.000'E, 1799 m, 23 Jun 2018, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Konjushë Mt., 42° 8.714'N, 20° 57.845'E, 2198 m, 23 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Shtërpcë, 42° 14.193'N, 21° 1.890'E, 954 m, 01 Jul 2020, Leg. Mala, Xh.; – South-Western Kosovo: Pashtrik Mt., 42° 11.600'N, 20° 32.500'E, 949 m, 16 Jun 2012, Leg. Berisha, N.; – North Kosovo: Sërboc – Zveçan, 42° 57.350'N, 20° 50.932'E, 732 m, 03 Jul 1989, Leg. Krivošej, Z.
8. Carex castroviejoi Luceño & Jim.Mejías, Acta Bot. Malac. 34: 231 (2008).
Specimens: – North Kosovo: Rogozna Mt., 43° 0.565'N, 20° 35.489'E, 1060 m, 10 Jun 1994, Leg. Rexhepi, F. [UPH – 00002037]; – Sharri Mts.: "Vahuf loc.", no coord., 09 Jul 1979, Leg. Pichler, A. [UPH – 00002038]; – Maja e Zezë, 42° 7.517'N, 20° 53.897'E, 1527 m, 30 May 1998, Leg. Rexhepi, F. [UPH – 00002039]; – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Bogiçë, 42° 33.559'N, 20° 5.359'E, 2097 m, 19 Jul 1979, Leg. Lindtner, V. [UPH – 00002040].
9. Carex curvula All., Fl. Pedem. 2: 264 (1785).
9.1. Carex curvula subsp. curvula
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Pribreg Mt., 42° 10.626'N, 21° 2.860'E, 2121 m, 10 Aug 2023, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Shutman – Brod, 41° 55.074'N, 20° 44.692'E, 2166m, 31 Jul 2023, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Konjushë Mt., 42° 8.736'N, 20° 57.627'E, 2127 m, 23 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.
10. Carex davalliana Sm. in Trans. Linn. Soc. London 5: 266 (1800).
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Konjushë Mt., 42° 8.664'N, 20° 57.750'E, 2155m, 23 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Vracë, 41° 54.598'N, 20° 43.155'E, 2049 m, 19 Jun 2023, Leg. Millaku, F.
11. Carex depauperata Curtis ex Woodw. in W.Withering., Bot. Arr. Brit. Pl., ed. 2, 2: 1049 (1787).
A sedge native to Europe. It thrives on semi-shady, dry, well-drained soils of calcareous as well as silicate substrates, on forest edges (Müller et al. 2021). In Kosovo, it has been found in similar habitats in the edges of Quercus pubescens Willd. forest.
Specimens: – Central Kosovo: Golesh Mt., 42° 34.708'N, 20° 59.886'E, 736 m, 12 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.
12. Carex depressa Link in J. Bot. (Schrader) 1799(2): 309 (1800).
12.1. Carex depressa subsp. transsilvanica (Schur) T.V.Egorova, Novosti Sist. Vysš. Rast. 9: 80 (1972).
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Pashallore Mt., 42° 14.716'N, 20° 54.839'E, 1709 m, 27 Jul 2023, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002041].
13. Carex digitata L., Sp. Pl.: 975 (1753).
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Glloboqicë, 42° 10.671'N, 21° 9.534'E, 1170 m, 02 Jul 2009, Leg. Mala, Xh.; – Gërmi (Prishtinë), 42° 40.087'N, 21° 12.937'E, 819 m, 14 Jun 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.
14. Carex distachya Desf., Fl. Atlant. 2: 336 (1799).
14.1. Carex distachya subsp. distachya
Primarily a Mediterranean species, often found in dry woodland, scrub and on rocky slopes, on calcareous and siliceous soils (Nikolić 2020; Koopman et al. 2024). In Kosovo, it thrives in Quercus pubescens forests as well as in their clearings. This is a new (sub)species for Kosovo.
Specimens: – Gërmi (Prishtinë), 42° 40.068'N, 21° 13.616'E, 822 m, 24 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002042]; – Llapashticë (Podujevë), 42° 53.827'N, 21° 7.179'E, 708 m, 30 May 2022, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002043].
15. Carex distans L., Syst. Nat., ed. 10, 2: 1263 (1759).
Specimens: – Central Kosovo: Golesh Mt., 42° 34.670'N, 20° 59.542'E, 731 m, 13 May 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Miradi e Epërme (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 35.940'N, 21° 5.775'E, 533 m, 20 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Gazimestan, 42° 41.167'N, 21° 7.395'E, 584 m, 02 Jul 2022, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Harilaç (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 35.449'N, 21° 0.946'E, 551 m, 05 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Ligatina e Hencit (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 34.702'N, 21° 3.041'E, 531 m, 12 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Dobrajë (Lipjan), 42° 32.935'N, 21° 2.398'E, 555 m, 12 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Shtime, 42° 25.424'N, 21° 2.379'E, 604 m, 10 Jun 2019, Leg. Mala, Xh.; – Sojevë (Ferizaj), 42° 22.658'N, 21° 13.252'E, 549 m, 02 Jul 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Blinajë, 42° 30.165'N, 20° 58.510'E, 651 m, 13 May 2024, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Sharri Mts.: Shutman, 41° 54.832'N, 20° 44.606'E, 2161m, 31 Jul 2023, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Zalli i Rupës, 42° 34.072'N, 20° 7.789'E, 1504 m, 19 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Bjeshka e Rusolisë, 42° 43.815'N, 20° 17.982'E, 882 m, 30 Jun 1987, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Mokna, 42° 46.399'N, 20° 23.214'E, 641 m, 19 Jul 1989, Leg. Krivošej, Z.; – Northern Kosovo: Banjskë (Zveçan), 42° 58.184'N, 20° 46.868'E, 644 m, 14 Jun 1986, Leg. Krivošej, Z.; – Sërboc (Zveçan), 42° 57.061'N, 20° 50.551'E, 539 m, 16 May 1986, Leg. Krivošej, Z.; – Zhazhë (Zveçan), 42° 56.856'N, 20° 51.561'E, 725 m, 16 May 1986, Leg. Krivošej, Z.; – Jashevik (Zveçan), 42° 58.011'N, 20° 48.316'E, 540 m, 14 May 1986, Leg. Krivošej, Z.; – South-Western Kosovo: Malësi e Gjakovës, 42° 20.030'N, 20° 18.534'E, 551 m, 29 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Potaqan (Rahovec), 42° 24.227'N, 20° 36.964'E, 409 m, 20 Jun 1979, Leg. Hundozi, B.
16. Carex divisa Huds., Fl. Angl.: 348 (1762).
Specimens: – Central Kosovo: Miradi i Poshtme (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 35.944'N, 21° 3.626'E, 519 m, 14 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Dobrajë (Lipjan), 42° 32.987'N, 21° 1.547'E, 553 m, 12 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.
17. Carex divulsa Stokes in W.Withering, Bot. Arr. Brit. Pl., ed. 2, 2: 1035 (1787).
Specimens: – Central Kosovo: Blinajë, 42° 31.750'N, 20° 58.411'E, 704 m, 13 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Gjeravicë, 42° 31.296'N, 20° 10.204'E, 1701 m, 10 Jul 2022, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Zalli i Rupës: 42° 34.244'N, 20° 7.872'E, 1398 m, 19 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Marjash: 42° 36.122'N, 20° 6.639'E, 1680 m, 30 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Sharri Mts.: Luboten Mt., 42° 14.337'N, 21° 9.571'E, 1096 m, 24 Jun 2017, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Northern Kosovo: Iberane (Zveçan), No coord., 650 m, 15 May 1986, Leg. Krivošej, Z.
18. Carex echinata Murray, Prodr. Stirp. Gott.: 76 (1770).
18.1. Carex echinata subsp. echinata
Specimens: – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Ishtedim, 42° 44.089'N, 20° 13.325'E, 1820 m, 10 Jul 1987, Leg. Krivošej, Z.; – Hajlë, 42° 45.688'N, 20° 5.901'E, 1784 m, 15 Jul 1987, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Mokna, 42° 49.623'N, 20° 20.457'E, 1869 m, 21 Jun 2012, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Gjeravicë, 42° 31.580'N, 20° 8.286'E, 2148 m, 23 Jul 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Marjash, 42° 36.634'N, 20° 4.925'E, 2021 m, 10 Jul 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Sharri Mts.: Përrojet e Durlës, 42° 10.376'N, 21° 0.860'E, 1631 m, 30 Jul 2022, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Luboten Mt., 42° 12.818'N, 21° 6.899'E, 1935 m, 26 Jun 2018, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Vracë, 41° 53.587'N, 20° 43.295'E, 2027 m, 09 Jul 2023, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Ujërat e Qeta, 42° 6.792'N, 20° 53.256'E, 1762 m, 30 Jun 2014, Leg. Mala, Xh.; – Pashallore Mt., 42° 14.718'N, 20° 54.856'E, 1774 m, 27 Jul 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.
19. Carex ferruginea Scop., Fl. Carniol., ed. 2, 2: 225 (1772).
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Brod, 41° 58.831'N, 20° 44.095'E, 2009 m, 20 Aug 2023, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002044]; – Pashallore Mt., 42° 15.037'N, 20° 55.467'E, 1540 m, 27 Jul 2023, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002045]; – Përrojet e Durlës, 42° 10.093'N, 21° 0.695'E, 1774 m, 30 Jul 2022, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002046]; – Vracë, 41° 53.267'N, 20° 43.309'E, 2087 m, 09 Jul 2023, Leg. Millaku, F. [UPH - 00002047]; – Maja e Zezë, 42° 7.071'N, 20° 55.415'E, 2104 m, 17 Jun 2021, Leg. Krasniqi, E. [UPH - 00002048].
20. Carex flacca Schreb., Spic. Fl. Lips.: App. 178 (1771).
20.1. Carex flacca subsp. flacca
Specimens: – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Shtupeç i Vogël, 42° 40.614'N, 20° 12.291'E, 1204 m, 30 Jun 2022, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Bogë, 42° 45.416'N, 20° 3.114'E, 1521 m, 08 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Rekë e Allagës, 42° 44.541'N, 20° 10.105'E, 1637 m, 19 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Kuqishtë, 42° 40.251'N, 20° 5.449'E, 1858 m, 14 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Northern Kosovo: Banjskë (Zveçan), 42° 58.022'N, 20° 45.671'E, 852 m, 14 Jun 1986, Leg. Krivošej, Z.
20.2. Carex flacca subsp. erythrostachys (Hoppe) Holub, Folia Geobot. Phytotax. 23: 413 (1988).
This subspecies is a newly reported taxon for Kosovo.
Specimens: – Central Kosovo: Golesh Mt., 42° 34.584'N, 20° 59.656'E, 752 m, 12 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH – 00002036].
21. Carex flava L., Sp. Pl.: 975 (1753).
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Brod, 41° 57.761'N, 20° 42.837'E, 1570 m, 20 Aug 2023, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Përrojet e Durlës: 42° 9.811'N, 21° 0.840'E, 2016 m, 03 Jul 2017, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Vracë, 41° 53.347'N, 20° 42.358'E, 1916 m, 27 Jul 2023, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Luboten Mt., 42° 12.965'N, 21° 7.028'E, 1887 m, 09 Jul 2018, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Lumi i Murzhicës (Shtërpcë), 42° 14.514'N, 21° 0.525'E, 945 m, 29 May 1973, Leg. Kirković, D.; – Maja e Zezë, 42° 7.804'N, 20° 55.534'E, 2351 m, 06 Jul 2011, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Mokna, 42° 50.310'N, 20° 32.404'E, 1176 m, 27 Jun 1996, Leg. Krivošej, Z.; – Bogë, 42° 45.539'N, 20° 3.464'E, 1551 m, 08 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Rekë e Allagës, 42° 45.171', 20° 9.795'E, 1874 m, 19 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.
22. Carex halleriana Asso, Syn. Stirp. Aragon.: 133 (1779).
Specimens: – Koritnik Mt.: Breznë, 42° 7.068'N, 20° 36.810'E, 1526 m, 11 Jul 2012, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Kërsteç, 42° 4.671'N, 20° 36.401'E, 1187 m, 29 Apr 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Shalë e Bajgorës: Vesekovc, 42° 55.863'N, 21° 2.388'E, 1243 m, 27 Jun 2009, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Iberane (Zveçan), No coord., 671 m, 15 May 1986, Leg. Krivošej, Z.; – Mazrek (Has), 42° 14.028'N, 20° 36.024'E, 623 m, 10 Sep 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Llapushnik, 42° 14.657'N, 20° 36.163'E, 790 m, 30 Apr 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Gërmi (Prishtinë), 42° 40.633'N, 21° 12.718'E, 788m, 24 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.
23. Carex hirta L., Sp. Pl.: 975 (1753).
A widespread Eurasian species, often found in grasslands, riverbanks, ditches and disturbed habitats, preferably on nutrient-rich soils (Müller et al. 2021). In Kosovo, it is one of the most widespread Carex species, occurring from lowlands to mountainous regions in a variety of moist and mesic environments.
Specimens: – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Bogë, 42° 45.745'N, 20° 3.483'E, 1584 m, 19 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Gjeravicë, 42° 31.813'N, 20° 9.950'E, 1901 m, 23 Jul 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Mali Drenicë, 42° 30.167'N, 20° 56.729'E, 669 m, 01 Jul 2008, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Blinajë, 42° 31.152'N, 20° 58.706'E, 648 m, 13 May 2024, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Vasilevë, 42° 37.793'N, 20° 58.240'E, 719 m, 17 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Prishtinë, 42° 39.426'N, 21° 9.787'E, 584 m, 16 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Mushtisht, 42° 17.333'N, 20° 53.401'E, 698 m, 21 Jun 2005, Leg. Mala, Xh.; – Harilaç (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 35.479'N, 21° 0.950'E, 551 m, 05 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Çiçavicë, 42° 44.107'N, 20° 55.460'E, 931 m, 04 Jun 1987, Leg. Rexhepi, F.; – Sharri Mts.: Prevallë, 42° 10.546'N, 20° 58.118'E, 1450 m, 22 Jul 2011, Leg. Berisha, N.
24. Carex hordeistichos Vill., Hist. Pl. Dauphiné 2: 221 (1787).
Specimens: – Ligatina e Hencit (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 34.889'N, 21° 2.966'E, 537 m, 12 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.
25. Carex humilis Leyss., Fl. Halens.: 175 (1761).
Specimens: – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Bjeshka e Rusolisë, 42° 44.254'N, 20° 15.219'E, 2053 m, 21 Jul 2010, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Pashtrik Mt., 42° 11.756'N, 20° 32.419'E, 1066 m, 16 Jun 2012, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Gllarevë, 42° 35.110'N, 20° 40.946'E, 608 m, 03 Apr 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Mushtisht, 42° 18.173'N, 20° 54.036'E, 708 m, 19 May 2020, Leg. Mala, Xh.
26. Carex kitaibeliana Bech. in Ber. Schweiz. Bot. Ges. 70: 178 (1960).
26.1. Carex kitaibeliana var. kitaibeliana
A species native to south-eastern and south-central Europe, as well as western Asia (Türkiye), specifically inhabiting dry, rocky slopes, high mountain grasslands and open forests, often on calcareous soils (Pignatti et al. 2018). In Kosovo, it has been found in high montane, subalpine regions where it thrives in rocky grasslands. Further research should reveal whether the variety capillata, known from the Balkans in Bulgaria and Greece, occurs in Kosovo, too.
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Vracë, 41° 54.405'N, 20° 42.479'E, 1970 m, 27 Jul 2023, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Luboten Mt., 42° 12.281'N, 21° 7.999'E, 1879 m, 02 Jul 2017, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Konjushë Mt., 42° 8.713'N, 20° 57.868'E, 2171 m, 23 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Shutman, 41° 55.116'N, 20° 43.671'E, 2164 m, 30 Jun 2011, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Oshlak, 42° 11.562'N, 20° 54.249'E, 1956 m, 24 Jun 2019, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Mokna, 42° 49.505'N, 20° 20.461'E, 1888 m, 21 Jun 2012, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Bjeshka e Rusolisë, 42° 44.805'N, 20° 14.578'E, 2263 m, 21 Jun 2011, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Ishtedim, 42° 43.753'N, 20° 13.737'E, 1931 m, 28 Jun 2011, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Rrasa e Zogut, 42° 29.877'N, 20° 10.842'E, 2060 m, 27 Jun 2021, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Pashtrik Mt., 42° 12.082'N, 20° 31.875'E, 1426 m, 20 Jun 2019, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Shalë e Bajgorës: Kaçandoll, 42° 58.000'N, 21° 3.605'E, 1321 m, 03 Jul 2010, Leg. Berisha, N.
27. Carex lazarei Jac. Koopman, Niketić, Więcław & Govaerts, Phytotaxa 422: 296 (2019).
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Konjushë Mt., 42°09'07"N, 20°57'23"E, 1846 m, 23 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Vracë, 41°53'13"N, 20°44'01"E, 2168 m, 29 Jun 2011, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Bistër, 42°08'44"N, 20°58'24"E, 2082 m, 24 Jul 2021, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Brezovicë, 42°10'33"N, 21°03'01"E, 2048 m, 03 Jul 2007, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Bjeshka e Rusolisë, 42°44'27"N, 20°14'44"E, 2229 m, 24 Jun 2010, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Gjeravicë, 42°31'36"N, 20°08'34"E, 2085 m, 22 Jun 2011, Leg. Rexhepi, F.
28. Carex lepidocarpa Tausch, Flora 17: 179 (1834).
28.1. Carex lepidocarpa subsp. lepidocarpa
Specimens: – Malësi e Gjakovës, 42°23'45"N, 20°16'40"E, 561 m, 29 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Bjeshka e Morinës, 42°23'56"N, 20°14'07"E, 512 m, 02 Jul 2021, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Sharri Mts.: Brod, 41°56'15"N, 20°42'28"E, 1901 m, 20 Aug 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.
29. Carex leporina L., Sp. Pl.: 973 (1753).
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Luboten Mt., 42°13'23"N, 21°09'43"E, 1378 m, 23 Jun 2016, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Firajë, 42°13'48"N, 21°05'27"E, 1368 m, 02 Jul 2020, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Brod, 41°57'26"N, 20°43'03"E, 1735 m, 14 Jul 2016, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Vracë, 41°53'43"N, 20°43'54"E, 2096 m, 09 Jul 2023, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Bistër, 42°09'23"N, 20°58'37"E, 1815 m, 24 Jul 2021, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Konjushë Mt., 42°09'40"N, 20°57'53"E, 1592 m, 23 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Përrojet e Durlës, 42°11'04"N, 21°00'23"E, 1432 m, 03 Jul 2017, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Pashallore Mt., 42°15'08"N, 20°54'19"E, 1652 m, 27 Jul 2023, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Mushtisht, 42°16'24"N, 20°53'26"E, 1115 m, 21 Jun 2005, Leg. Mala, Xh.; – Bresanë (Opojë), 42°06'32"N, 20°44'04"E, 1240 m, 21 Jun 2007, Leg. Mala, Xh.; – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Bogë, 42°45'37"N, 20°02'42"E, 1590 m, 09 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Mokna, 42°48'07"N, 20°20'48"E, 1556 m, 21 Jun 2012, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Central Kosovo: Blinajë, 42°30'47"N, 20°57'27"E, 788 m, 13 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Vasilevë, 42°37'35"N, 20°58'29"E, 726 m, 17 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – North Kosovo: Sërboc – Zveçan, 42°57'21"N, 20°50'26"E, 596 m, 03 Jul 1989, Leg. Krivošej, Z.
30. Carex macrolepis DC., Cat. Pl. Horti Monsp.: 89 (1813).
A sedge species native to parts of southern Europe, including Italy, Albania, Greece and Turkey. This species thrives in moist meadows, grasslands and near forests (Pignatti et al. 2018). In Kosovo, it was found in a white oak forest (Quercus pubescens) in a moist habitat on a serpentine substrate. This is a new species for Kosovo.
Specimens: – Malësi e Gjakovës, 42°20'02"N, 20°18'21"E, 528 m, 29 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH – 00002057].
31. Carex melanostachya Willd., Sp. Pl. 4: 299 (1805).
Specimens: – Ligatina e Hencit (Fushë Kosovë), 42°34'39"N, 21°02'52"E, 536 m, 12 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Harilaç (Fushë Kosovë), 42°35'34"N, 21°00'55"E, 560 m, 05 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Talinoc (Ferizaj), 42°23'52"N, 21°10'10"E, 569 m, 09 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.
32. Carex michelii Host, Syn. Pl.: 507 (1797).
Specimens: – Gërmi (Prishtinë), 42°40'52"N, 21°13'28"E, 826 m, 29 May 1962, Leg. Nimolić, V.
33. Carex muricata L., Sp. Pl.: 974 (1753).
33.1. Carex muricata subsp. muricata
Specimens: – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Bjeshka e Deçanit, 42°33'40"N, 20°15'42"E, 873 m, 04 Jul 2023, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH – 00002058]; – Liqenat, 42°40'33"N, 20°04'32"E, 1633 m, 28 Jun 2020, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH – 00002059]; – Zalli i Rupës, 42°34'50"N, 20°08'34"E, 1301 m, 25 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH – 00002060]; – Mokna, 42°47'53"N, 20°24'17"E, 1415 m, 06 Jul 2012, Leg. Millaku, F. [UPH – 00002061]; – Bjeshka e Rusolisë, 42°44'51"N, 20°17'07"E, 1361 m, 29 Jun 1987, Leg. Millaku, F. [UPH – 00002062]; – Bogë, 42°45'35"N, 20°03'58"E, 1620 m, 08 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH – 00002063]; – Sharri Mts.: Brod, 41° 56.981'N, 20° 42.744'E, 1842 m, 01 Aug 2023, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH – 00002064]; – Central Kosovo: Blinajë, 42° 31.259'N, 20° 58.525'E, 682 m, 13 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH – 00002065]; – Gërmi (Prishtinë), 42° 39.759'N, 21° 13.553'E, 931 m, 24 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH – 00002066]
34. Carex nigra (L.) Reichard, Fl. Moeno-francof. 2: 96 (1778).
34.1. Carex nigra subsp. nigra
A species native to Europe, western Asia and North America, occurring in a variety of habitats, in wetlands, marshes, near water sources, in Sphagnum-dominated springs and along river banks, often on calcareous or acidic soils (Konrad et al. 2018). In Kosovo, it has been found in high montane to subalpine regions, where it thrives in fens and near high-mountain lakes. Carex nigra subsp. nigra is epistomatic (sometimes with a few stomata on the abaxial surface of the leaves), whereas the subspecies intricata (Tineo ex Guss.) Rivas Mart. (mainly distributed in the western Mediterranean region) and transcaucasica (T.V.Egorova) Jim.Mejías, G.E.Rodr.-Pal., Amini Rad & Martin-Bravo (from the Balkans to Iran) are both amphistomatic. Further research should reveal whether subsp. transcaucasica occurs also in Kosovo, as genomic studies suggest that at least some of the Balkan C. nigra material should be assigned to the subsp. transcaucasica (Valdés-Florido et al. 2024).
Specimens: – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Gjeravicë, 42° 31.733'N, 20° 8.163'E, 2288 m, 23 Jul 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Bogë, 42° 46.217'N, 20° 3.512'E, 1618 m, 08 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Hajlë, 42° 45.782'N, 20° 5.927'E, 1811 m, 09 Jul 2007, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Bjeshka e Rusolisë, 42° 45.148'N, 20° 15.287'E, 2051 m, 21 Jul 2010, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Bjeshka e Dobroshit, 42° 34.168'N, 20° 5.310'E, 2041 m, 25 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Sharri Mts.: Luboten Mt., 42° 12.448'N, 21° 6.551'E, 2072 m, 24 Jun 2017, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Konjushë Mt., 42° 8.423'N, 20° 57.756'E, 2248 m, 23 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Shutman, 41° 54.818'N, 20° 44.629'E, 2161 m, 31 Jul 2023, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Brod, 41° 57.553'N, 20° 42.281'E, 1769 m, 01 Aug 2020, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Bresanë (Opojë), 42° 3.892'N, 20° 45.696'E, 1982 m, 21 Jun 2007, Leg. Mala, Xh.; – Ujërat e Qeta, 42° 6.711'N, 20° 53.147'E, 1756 m, 30 Jun 2014, Leg. Mala, Xh.
35. Carex ornithopoda Willd., Sp. Pl. 4: 255 (1805).
35.1. Carex ornithopoda subsp. ornithopoda
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Oshlak, 42° 11.147'N, 20° 56.389'E, 1491 m, 30 May 2018, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Ujerat e Kuqe, spruce meadows forest clearings, no. coord., 1791 m, 03 Jul 1952, Leg. Rudski, J.; – Bogiqevicë, calc. grassland, no. coord., 1350 m, 08 Jul 1979, Leg. Rexhepi, F.; – Sejnovë, 42° 48.995'N, 20° 17.123'E, 1708 m, 28 Jul 1969, Leg. Anonymous; – Zalli i Rupës, 42° 33.835'N, 20° 7.047'E, 1721 m, 19 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Koritnik Mt., no coord., 14 Jul 1936, Leg. Oelizm, H.; Koritnik Mt., 42° 7.076'N, 20° 34.500'E, 1497 m, 29 May 2012, Leg. Millaku, F.
36. Carex otomana Molina & Llamas, Bot. J. Linn. Soc. 156: 404 (2008).
A species native to Europe spreading as far as Central Asia. It is specifically found in anthropogenically managed pastures, meadows and tall herbaceous meadows on fertile, deep soils (Molina et al. 2008). In Kosovo, it has been found in montane regions, where it thrives in damp meadows and open forests. In Kosovo, this species was previously erroneously known as Carex leersii F.W.Schultz.
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Brod, 41° 57.043'N, 20° 43.133'E, 1644 m, 20 Aug 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Gryka e Rugovës, 42° 41.906'N, 20° 8.618'E, 1019 m, 09 Jun 2008, Leg. Rexhepi, F.; – Lumbardhi i Deçanit, 42° 33.015'N, 20° 15.457'E, 682 m, 19 Aug 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Zalli i Rupës, 42° 34.485'N, 20° 7.978'E, 1472 m, 19 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.
37. Carex otrubae Podp. in Spisy Prír. Fak. Masarykovy Univ. 12: 15 (1922).
Specimens: – Central Kosovo: Ligatina e Hencit (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 34.681'N, 21° 2.921'E, 536 m, 12 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Lumi Drenicë (Bardh i Vogël), 42° 36.510'N, 21° 2.026'E, 533 m, 09 Jun 2024, Leg. Krasniqi,E.; – Golesh Mt., 42° 35.244'N, 20° 59.691'E, 681 m, 12 Jun 2015, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Vasilevë, 42° 37.797'N, 20° 58.257'E, 723 m, 17 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Harilaç (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 35.348'N, 21° 0.569'E, 566 m, 05 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Shtime, 42° 25.981'N, 21° 1.056'E, 591 m, 24 Jun 2017, Leg. Mala, Xh.; – Talinoc (Ferizaj), 42° 23.973'N, 21° 10.836'E, 566 m, 28 May 2023, Leg. Mala, Xh.; – Gazimestan, 42° 41.100'N, 21° 7.228'E, 582 m, 02 Jul 2022, Leg. Berisha, N.; – North Kosovo: Mitrovicë, 42° 52.766'N, 20° 52.458'E, 508 m, 17 May 2022, Leg. Berisha, N.
38. Carex pairae F.W.Schultz, Flora 51: 303 (1868).
Specimens: – Gërmi (Prishtinë), 42° 40.686'N, 21° 12.268'E, 760 m, 01 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002067].
39. Carex pallescens L., Sp. Pl.: 977 (1753).
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Përrojet e Durlës, 42° 10.339'N, 21° 0.877'E, 1649 m, 30 Jul 2022, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Luboten Mt., 42° 13.691'N, 21° 9.927'E, 1209 m, 24 Jun 2017, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Oshlak, 42° 11.786'N, 20° 56.119'E, 1409 m, 02 Jun 2017, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Pashallore Mt., 42° 15.032'N, 20° 54.897'E, 1659 m, 27 Jul 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Bistër, 42° 9.971'N, 20° 58.320'E, 1504 m, 24 Jul 2021, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Hajlë, 42° 45.548'N, 20° 5.973'E, 1769 m, 09 Jul 2007, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Mokna, 42° 49.850'N, 20° 21.008'E, 2019 m, 21 Jun 2012, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Bogë, 42° 45.683'N, 20° 3.577'E, 1609 m, 08 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Rekë e Allagës, 42° 43.817'N, 20° 10.947'E, 1741 m, 17 Jun 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.
40. Carex paniculata L., Cent. Pl. 1: 31 (1755).
40.1. Carex paniculata subsp. paniculata
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Pashallore Mt., 42° 15.065'N, 20° 54.845'E, 1679 m, 27 Jul 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Brezovicë, 42° 10.814'N, 21° 2.608'E, 1900 m, 17 Jul 2020, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Vracë, 41° 52.924'N, 20° 39.789'E, 1722 m, 19 Jun 2023, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Oshlak, 42° 12.278'N, 20° 51.780'E, 1752 m, 24 Jun 2019, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Luboten Mt., 42° 12.902'N, 21° 8.248'E, 1715 m, 24 Jun 2017, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Brod, 41° 57.441'N, 20° 42.928'E, 1601 m, 14 Jul 2016, Leg. Mala, Xh.; – Përrojet e Durlës, 42° 10.344'N, 21° 0.868'E, 1630 m, 03 Jul 2017, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Bogë, 42° 46.077'N, 20° 4.033'E, 1656 m, 08 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.
41. Carex pendula Huds., Fl. Angl.: 352 (1762).
Specimens: – Zalli i Rupës, 42° 34.188'N, 20° 7.868'E, 1488 m, 25 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Gërmi (Prishtinë), 42° 40.681'N, 21° 13.875'E, 931 m, 25 May 1989, Leg. Anonymous; – Sharri Mts.: Gotovushë, 42° 14.153'N, 21° 4.428'E, 1071 m, 10 Aug 2023, Leg. Millaku, F.
42. Carex pyrenaica Wahlenb. in Kongl. Vetensk. Acad. Nya Handl., nov. Ser. 24: 139 (1803).
42.1. Carex pyrenaica subsp. pyrenaica
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Liqeni i Jazhincës, 42° 9.408'N, 20° 59.738'E, 2070 m, 10 Jul 2013, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Bistër, 42° 8.714'N, 20° 57.745'E, 2268 m, 24 Jul 2021, Leg. Berisha, N.
43. Carex remota L., Fl. Angl.: 24 (1754).
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Firajë: 42° 15.822'N, 21° 6.160'E, 731 m, 23 Aug 2022, Leg. Mala, Xh.; – Lubinjë e Poshtme, 42° 7.305'N, 20° 51.226'E, 1294 m, 01 Aug 2023, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Malet e Jezercës, Petrovë: 42° 23.884'N, 21° 1.288'E, 770 m, 20 May 2020, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Central Kosovo: Blinajë, 42° 31.278'N, 20° 58.646'E, 690 m, 13 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.
44. Carex riparia Curtis, Fl. Londin. 2(4): t. 60 (1783).
A robust, rhizomatous species native to Europe and parts of Asia and North Africa. It is specifically found in moist habitats such as marshes, swamps, riverbanks and the edges of lakes (Jermy et al. 2007). In Kosovo, it has been found in lowland regions where it thrives in nutrient-rich, waterlogged soils in swamps and on riverbanks.
Specimens: – Ligatina e Hencit (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 34.917'N, 21° 2.835'E, 536 m, 12 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Dobrajë (Lipjan), 42° 33.049'N, 21° 1.636'E, 551 m, 12 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Graboc i Epërm (Obiliç), 42° 39.166'N, 20° 59.964'E, 551 m, 13 May 2024, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Miradi e Epërme (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 35.825'N, 21° 6.224'E, 548 m, 10 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Medvec (Lipjan), 42° 33.441'N, 21° 1.738'E, 548 m, 12 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Jezercë (Ferizaj), 42° 26.507'N, 20° 54.508'E, 794 m, 10 Jul 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Talinoc (Ferizaj), 42° 24.009'N, 21° 10.903'E, 566 m, 09 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Harilaç (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 35.416'N, 21° 0.929'E, 550 m, 05 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; Mitrovicë, 42° 52.268'N, 20° 52.951'E, 503 m, 11 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Shtime, 42° 26.148'N, 21° 1.083'E, 594 m, 09 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.
45. Carex rostrata Stokes in W.Withering, Bot. Arr. Brit. Pl., ed. 2, 2: 1059 (1787) nom. cons.
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Bistër, 42° 8.572'N, 20° 57.818'E, 2198 m, 09 Jul 2018, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Ujërat e Qeta, no coord., 1977 m, 29 Jun 1980, Leg. Rexhepi, F.; – Vracë, 41° 53.367'N, 20° 43.405'E, 2084 m, 29 Jun 2011, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Koritnik Mt., 42° 5.461'N, 20° 34.098'E, 1981 m, 29 May 2012, Leg. Krasniqi, E.; – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Mokna, 42° 49.605'N, 20° 21.409'E, 1969 m, 21 Jun 2012, Leg. Millaku, F.; – Liqenat (Kuqishtë), 42° 40.173'N, 20° 5.526'E, 1869 m, 28 Jun 2020, Leg. Berisha, N.
46. Carex rupestris All., Fl. Pedem. 2: 264 (1785).
Specimens: – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Liqenat (Kuqishtë), 42° 40.187'N, 20° 4.945'E, 2011 m, 28 Jun 2020, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Koritnik Mt., 42° 5.419'N, 20° 33.705'E, 2109 m, 28 Jul 2013, Leg. Krasniqi, E.
47. Carex sempervirens Vill., Hist. Pl. Dauphiné 2: 214 (1787).
47.1. Carex sempervirens subsp. pseudotristis (Domni) Pawł., Publ. Inst. Bot. Univ. Jagell. Cracov. 1937: 5 (1937).
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Luboten Mt., 42° 12.949'N, 21° 7.611'E, 1989 m, 27 Jun 2019, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002068]; – Vracë, 41° 52.884'N, 20° 43.448'E, 2151 m, 29 Jun 2011, Leg. Millaku, F. [UPH - 00002069]; – Bjeshka e Lumbardhit të Prizrenit, 42° 11.576'N, 20° 49.640'E, 1284 m, 12 Aug 2023, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002070]; – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Gjeravicë, 42° 31.596'N, 20° 8.054'E, 2210 m, 23 Jul 2023, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002071].
48. Carex spicata Huds., Fl. Angl.: 349 (1762).
48.1. Carex spicata subsp. spicata
Specimens: – Ligatina e Hencit (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 34.457'N, 21° 2.364'E, 538 m, 12 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Dobrajë (Lipjan), 42° 33.455'N, 21° 1.776'E, 547 m, 12 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Koretin (Kamenicë), no coord., 808 m, 11 Jul 1990, Leg. Pajazitaj, Q.
49. Carex sylvatica Huds., Fl. Angl.: 353 (1762).
49.1. Carex sylvatica subsp. sylvatica
Specimens: – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Bogë, 42° 45.413'N, 20° 3.320'E, 1501 m, 09 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Zalli i Rupës (Deçan), 42° 33.619'N, 20° 7.201'E, 1553 m, 19 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Drelaj, 42° 40.855'N, 20° 7.825'E, 1660 m, 10 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Sharri Mts.: Pashallore, 42° 15.520'N, 20° 54.825'E, 1570 m, 27 Jul 2023, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Luboten Mt., 42° 13.601'N, 21° 10.102'E, 1249 m, 20 Jun 2019, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Vërbeshticë (Shtërpcë), 42° 14.124'N, 20° 56.649'E, 1289 m, 11 Jul 2023, Leg. Mala, Xh.
50. Carex tomentosa L., Mant. Pl. 1: 123 (1767).
A species native to Europe and parts of Asia, specifically found in seasonally moist meadows, ditch margins and light, slightly moist deciduous forests (Müller et al. 2021). In Kosovo, it has been recorded in similar habitats and thrives on calcareous, nutrient-poor soils in partially shaded areas.
Specimens: – Gërmi (Prishtinë), 42° 40.120'N, 21° 13.518'E, 830 m, 24 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Llapushnik, 42° 33.897'N, 20° 51.418'E, 711 m, 30 Apr 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Harilaç (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 35.394'N, 21° 0.523'E, 568 m, 05 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.; – Bresje (Fushë Kosovë), 42° 37.557'N, 21° 5.939'E, 529 m, 06 May 2024, Leg. Berisha, N.
51. Carex umbrosa Host, Icon. Descr. Gram. Austriac. 1: 52 (1801).
51.1. Carex umbrosa subsp. umbrosa
Specimens: – Svircë (Kamenicë), 42° 41.947'N, 21° 34.421'E, 819 m, 07 May 2023, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002072]; – Llapushnik, 42° 33.761'N, 20° 52.128'E, 733 m, 30 Apr 2024, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002073]; – Sharri Mts.: Pashallore, 42° 15.119'N, 20° 55.150'E, 1589 m, 27 Jul 202, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002074]; – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Bogë, 42° 45.525'N, 20° 3.409'E, 1550 m, 08 Jun 2024, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002075].
52. Carex vesicaria L., Sp. Pl.: 979 (1753).
Specimens: – Albanian Alps of Kosovo: Liqenat (Kuqishtë), 42° 40.097'N, 20° 5.483'E, 1861 m, 28 Jun 2020, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002086].
53. Carex × ruedtii Kneuck., in M.A.Seubert, Excurs.-Fl. Baden, ed. 5: 67 (1891).
[C. flava × C. lepidocarpa]
Carex × ruedtii is a rather rare hybrid, documented in various parts of Europe. It prefers mineral-rich bogs where there is a regular through-flow of water (Koopman 2010, 2022). In Kosovo it was recorded in a wet meadow. It is a newly recorded hybrid for Kosovo.
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Brod, 41° 57.800'N, 20° 42.806'E, 1526 m, 20 Aug 2023, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002087].
54. Carex × subviridula Fernald, Rhodora 35: 231 (1933).
[C. flava × C. oederi]
Carex × subviridula is a rather rare hybrid, specifically found in habitats similar to its parent species, such as wetlands, fens, and moist meadows, often in areas with calcareous or slightly acidic soils (Więcław 2014; Koopman 2022). In Kosovo, C. × subviridula has been observed in the subalpine region, where it thrives in fen vegetation of slightly acidic fens. It is a newly recorded hybrid for Kosovo. However, despite the presence of its hybrid, we have not recorded the parental species Carex oederi Retz. in this area. Nevertheless, we expect that additional field surveys will confirm its presence.
Specimens: – Sharri Mts.: Luboten Mt., 42° 12.773'N, 21° 6.938'E, 1969 m, 08 Jul 2018, Leg. Berisha, N. [UPH - 00002088].
Discussion
This study has resulted in the most comprehensive and taxonomically verified checklist of Carex taxa in Kosovo to date. The recorded 52 species, 19 subspecies, 1 variety and 2 hybrids constitute a considerable increase in the known Carex diversity in the region. The confirmation of 15 taxa newly recorded for the flora of Kosovo underlines the floristic gaps that still exist in this Balkan country.
The high representation of Carex taxa in subalpine and alpine ecosystems, especially in the Sharri Mountains and the Albanian Alps, confirms the ecological importance and habitat specificity of this genus. Many taxa, such as C. castroviejoi, C. sempervirens subsp. pseudotristis and C. lazarei, are restricted to serpentine or silicate substrates, emphasizing their importance as habitat specialists and potential indicators of habitat integrity.
Compared to neighbouring countries such as Albania (Martín-Bravo et al. 2022), Croatia (Nikolić 2020) and Serbia (Niketić and Tomović 2018), the diversity of the genus Carex in Kosovo is now well documented and more accurately represented due to this comprehensive study. While the country has reached a comparable level of knowledge regarding the richness of Carex, further field research in underexplored regions could reveal additional taxa. In particular, some species already reported (e.g. Carex arenaria, C. tricolor) have not yet been confirmed, underlining the need for more targeted surveys.
The taxonomic challenges within the genus, such as hybridisation (e.g. C. × ruedtii and C. × subviridula) and morphological plasticity, have been addressed by using modern identification keys and comparative herbarium studies. This approach has not only corrected numerous misidentifications but also improved our understanding of infraspecific variation in the region. Carex hybrids can usually be recognised by empty utricles and anthers that do not dehisce, hidden under the male glumes (Jermy et al. 2007). Moreover, hybrids like C. × ruedtii and C. × subviridula are generally morphologically intermediate compared to their parental taxa or they show a mosaic of parental, intermediate and unique characters (Więcław and Wilhelm 2014).
The discovery of narrowly distributed and habitat-specific taxa also has conservation implications. Many of these sites are located in national parks but are not actively monitored.
This updated checklist and distribution assessment contributes significantly to the understanding of Carex diversity in the Balkans. It provides a taxonomic basis for future ecological, biogeographical and conservation research. It also emphasizes the need for systematic botanical inventories, especially in areas such as Kosovo that are rich in biodiversity but have historically been unexplored.
Non-confirmed records of Carex taxa
Drawing on several key sources for the genus in our region (Josifović 1976, Sarić and Diklić 1986, Niketić and Tomović 2018), we have not been able to confirm the presence of the 16 Carex taxa previously reported for Kosovo in Tab. 2.
Tab. 2. Non-confirmed Carex taxa in Kosovo.
Our review of all available herbarium specimens and field observations revealed that these records were either misidentifications (C. appropinquata, C. leersii, C. montana, C. pilosa, C. praecox and C. vulpina), the specimens being assigned erroneously to other Carex taxa, or were entirely absent from their reported habitats in Kosovo.
Accurate taxonomic identification is essential for understanding regional species diversity. In the case of Carex, a genus known for its morphological complexity, misidentifications are not uncommon (Clerc‐Blain et al. 2009). The results of this study emphasise the need to regularly review historical records and herbarium specimens with taxonomic expertise (Więcław et al. 2021). Although future field expeditions and broader surveys may reveal some of these Carex taxa in Kosovo, our current evidence indicates that, to date, they remain unverified.
Diversity, distribution, and rarity of Carex taxa in Kosovo
Carex taxa play a central role in maintaining wetland ecosystem functions. Their dense, fibrous root systems stabilise soil by reducing erosion and promoting sediment retention along riparian zones. Moreover, these taxa enhance water infiltration and retention, moderate runoff patterns, and thereby promote nutrient cycling and overall water quality. Given their sensitivity to hydrological changes and pollutant inputs, Carex taxa are frequently used as bioindicators in wetland monitoring programmes, offering valuable insights into ecosystem health (Yuan et al. 2019).
The Carex flora of Kosovo exhibits notable diversity, with currently 52 species within 4 different subgenera. Geographically, the documentation of these taxa spans various regions of Kosovo. The Sharri Mountains and the Albanian Alps, both national parks, are particularly significant, with 36 taxa and 90 records, and 25 taxa and 62 records, respectively. These figures underscore their roles as major reservoirs for Carex diversity, although the high record counts may include multiple observations from the same localities. Additionally, substantial records originate from other areas, such as Pashallore Mt., low meadows of Kosovo plain and Malësia e Gjakovës, demonstrating that Carex diversity is widespread and not confined solely to the two major mountain ranges. Within these broader regions, several hotspots emerge: Vracë and Brod each host 13 taxa, followed by Luboten Mt. with 12, Bogë with 10, and Bistër with 9 taxa. Other localities, including Bjeshka e Rusolisë, Pashallore Mt., Gërmi, Mokna, Ligatina e Hencit, Gjeravicë Mt., Blinajë, Zalli i Rupës, and Përrojet e Durlës, each record 7 or 8 taxa, indicating a clustered pattern of species richness.
Another important result of this study is the establishment of the rarity of some taxa. An analysis of locality data shows that several Carex taxa are known only from a single locality. For example, C. depressa, C. digitata, C. distachya, C. macrolepis, C. michelii, C. pairae, and C. vesicaria have all been recorded from single sites. These restricted occurrences may indicate true rarity - due to specific habitat requirements or historical isolation - or could reflect gaps in sampling. Nevertheless, taxa with such a narrow distribution are of particular conservation interest, as they are more vulnerable to environmental disturbance.
In view of these findings, targeted conservation measures are urgently needed. For instance, C. vesicaria is only known from Liqenat, where it thrives along the lake shore, a popular destination for tourists and mountain hikers - potentially increasing habitat disturbance. Similarly, C. pairae and C. michelii, recorded in the bushy vegetation and forest clearings of Gërmia, underscore the importance of designating Gërmia a regional park with unique conservation value. Carex macrolepis, found in Malësia e Gjakovës on serpentine soils near Quercus forests, is confined to a limited natural habitat that is subject to military exercises and is expected to become a strict military zone, further jeopardising its survival. Additionally, C. depressa from Pashallore Mt. and C. flacca subsp. erythrostachys, documented only in Golesh Mt. of central Kosovo, highlight the vulnerability of species with a very narrow distribution. Monitoring population trends and implementing targeted conservation measures in these areas are crucial for preserving these taxa, their habitats, and the overall ecological integrity of Kosovo’s landscapes (van Diggelen et al. 2006).
Finally, the patterns observed in Kosovo reflect broader trends in the Balkan region, where complex topography and diverse microhabitats have fostered high levels of endemism and floristic turnover (Martín-Bravo et al. 2022, Więcław et al. 2019). Continued field research, particularly in understudied areas, is essential to refine our understanding of the distributional limits and conservation status of these taxa. Such efforts, coupled with molecular studies to resolve taxonomic ambiguities, will provide deeper insights into the evolutionary and ecological processes shaping sedge diversity in Kosovo and the Balkans.
Conclusions
This study provides the first verified checklist of Carex taxa for Kosovo. It confirms the occurrence of 52 species, including 19 subspecies and one variety, and two hybrids. There are 15 taxa newly reported for the flora of Kosovo; earlier reports of another 10 taxa remaining are refuted as so far unconfirmed. Although our extensive field surveys and herbarium reviews have provided an important basis for regional Carex diversity, further fieldwork is needed to update these results and ensure that all details are accurately documented. In addition, molecular studies would be invaluable for clarifying the phylogenetic relationships among these taxa, clarifying taxonomic uncertainties and prioritising conservation efforts. It is essential that government agencies conduct systematic assessments of the conservation status of these taxa, especially those with restricted distributions, in order to develop effective management and conservation strategies.
Acknowledgements
We would like to thank two anonymous reviewers for their constructive comments. Our special thanks go to Dr Marjan Niketić for his invaluable assistance in providing scanned images of important Carex taxa from the flora of Kosovo, which are kept in the Herbarium of the Natural History Museum in Belgrade, Serbia. We sincerely thank Prof. Valbon Bytyqi (FMNS – University of Prishtina) for his valuable assistance in the compilation of the map. We thank Dr Bujar Kadriaj and Dr Qëndrim Ramshaj for their valuable support and participation in several field expeditions across Kosovo. This research was supported by funds from the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Kosovo (Project No. 2-1876-15).
N.B. designed the research, obtained the research grant, conducted and organised the field surveys and sample collections, performed taxonomic work, prepared the first draft of the manuscript and the final version; F.M. conducted the field surveys and sample collections, worked on the taxonomy of taxa, examined and prepared herbarium specimens, and wrote/edited parts of the manuscript; E.K. conducted the field surveys and sample collections, performed taxonomic work, and wrote parts of the manuscript; R.C. examined and prepared herbarium specimens at different stages of the work, performed taxonomic work, and wrote/edited parts of the manuscript; X.M. conducted the field surveys and sample collections, performed taxonomic work, and assisted in herbarium specimen collections; H.W. performed taxonomic work, verified the final taxa identifications, and contributed to the manuscript structure and writing; J.K. performed taxonomic work, verified the final taxa identifications, and contributed to the manuscript structure and writing. All authors contributed to the concept and implementation of the study and took part in the final revision, discussion, and approval of the manuscript.