The importance of pollinators in agriculture has been widely demonstrated by decades of research. However, due to modern, intensive farming practices, these vital organisms are facing significant challenges. In the Mediterranean region, olive groves and vineyards dominate the landscape and account for a large share of the economy but often support low pollinator diversity. Although neither crop depends directly on entomophilous pollination, recent studies have amply demonstrated that, for example, wine production and organoleptic qualities are positively influenced by the presence of pollinating insects. Moreover, implementing pollinator-friendly management across extensive areas of olive groves and vineyards can provide favourable habitats for pollinator biodiversity, providing food and nesting resources.

In this case study, we focused on a Mediterranean agricultural environment that is highly distinctive as it is situated within the Portofino Regional Nature Park. This area is characterised by a mosaic of diverse habitats and has a long tradition of viticulture and olive growing deeply rooted in the local landscape. We monitored pollinators once a month for two consecutive years on a farm with established olive groves and vineyards, and an area where new vineyards and olive groves are to be planted following restoration of dry-stone traditional terraces. The aim is to study the pollinator insect communities and to support the development of tailored conservation management practices. The mosaic of microhabitats characterising the study area was found to be reflected in the differentiation of pollinator communities, with the established vineyard community being the most diverse compared to the other areas and the natural control area outside the farm. Even micro- scale, the diversity of native flora, microclimate and landscape conformation appear to shape pollinator communities. This paves the way for sustainable, pollinator-friendly agriculture models focused on the management of native flora within a traditional agricultural landscape.