The old-growth forest of “Canale de S’Alasi” is a rare example of an acidophilic altocollinarine ilex forest, located between 600 and 700 meters on metamorphic substrates. The impluvium in which it stands creates a cool and humid microclimate, which favors lush vegetation and the presence of species typical of higher altitudes. Alongside the holm oaks, which are more than 15 meters high, grow oaks, alders, Gallura willows and hawthorns, with a dense shrub and liana layer. More unusual species include holly, European sanicula, ferns and the endemic Sardinian ellera. The presence of the rare lichen Lobaria pulmonaria testifies to forest continuity and constant moisture. It is a biotope of great value, to be protected for its biodiversity and ancient forest structure, now rare in the regional context.
