# Azores biodiversity and tourism trends

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/azores-biodiversity-and-tourism-trends
> Updated: 2026-10-22T13:14:06.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 3.

Research conducted by the University of Lisbon and the University of the Azores indicates that arthropod communities within the archipelago’s native forests have remained stable or increased. This long-term study, spanning over 25 years, suggests that preserving native habitats can prevent the population collapses observed in other global insect communities. Findings published in the journal Scientific Reports highlight that species such as the spiders ‘Macaroeris diligens’ and ‘Pisaura acoreensis’, along with various beetles, do not follow a uniform trajectory of decline when native habitats are protected. Project coordinator Paulo Borges noted that while forest protection is effective, continuous monitoring remains essential.

Simultaneously, the tourism sector in the Azores has experienced significant long-term growth, with overnight stays rising from 3.2 million to 4.5 million over a three-year period. While recent debates in the Regional Legislative Assembly addressed concerns regarding an “alarming drop” in tourism due to 11 consecutive months of reduced overnight stays, the Regional Government has disputed these claims. Secretary for Tourism, Mobility, and Infrastructure Berta Cabral defended the sector, noting that 2025 was the best year for tourism and projecting that 2026 revenues will exceed previous levels. However, political figures have criticized high airfare prices and the perception of the Azores as an expensive destination regarding accommodation, dining, and car rentals.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-22: Azores Regional Government disputes claims of tourism decline

The Azores government rejected claims of a tourism crisis, citing strong 2025 performance and projected revenue growth for 2026 despite recent declines in overnight stays.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/azores-regional-government-disputes-claims-of-tourism-decline

### 2026-10-01: Azores tourism shows long-term growth despite recent declines

Despite recent declines in overnight stays, tourism in the Azores is projected to see its second-best year in 2026, following a period of 11 percent average annual growth.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/azores-tourism-shows-long-term-growth-despite-recent-declines

### 2026-09-10: Azores native forests preserve stable arthropod communities

A 20-year study shows that arthropod communities in the Azores' native forests remain stable or growing, defying the global trend of insect population decline.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/azores-native-forests-preserve-stable-arthropod-communities

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Cite as: Azores biodiversity and tourism trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/azores-biodiversity-and-tourism-trends