Issues

Abstract

The article considers the issue of establishment and formation of new plantations in forest areas, passing continuous sanitary logging. The evaluation of the reaction of European spruce in stands of various species composition to the different climatic factors impact by analyzing dendroclimatic information has been carried out. It was found out that the least meteosensitivity of spruce is observed in lime stands. Predicting the conditions of Norway spruce trees (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) and spruce stands in general after catastrophic drought of 2010 followed by eight-toothed bark beetle (Ips typographus L.) invasion is of immediate interest now. On the practical side optimization of stand composition according to the reaction to climatic factors is advantageous.

Abstract

Ficus plays an essential role in the forest ecosystem and can be used as an indicator of success in the local environment. Its lateral rooting system binds with soil, thereby maintaining soil stability. The fig fruit of Ficus is essential food for frugivores. This study aims to determine the species richness and potential as frugivorous feed, focusing on Gentong Hill, Mount Ungaran. Mount Ungaran is a forest ecosystem with a variety of flora and fauna, including various species of Ficus, and was selected as a research location due to the habitat it provides for animals and plants. This research was conducted between January and May 2018. Data was selectively sampled based on Ficus accessibility and location. Its feed potential was determined using scoring based on fruit dimensions and colour. The research showed 24 species of Ficus in six sub-genera. According to our scoring results, these species were divided into four categories based on their frugivorous feed potential: high potential (4 Ficus species), potential (11), and less potential (9). This finding implies that Gentong Hill plays an important role in providing food for frugivores, and its maintenance is urgently necessary.

Abstract

In this article it is considered the current state of heritage parks of the Zhytomyr region. We conducted an ecological, geographical, phytosociological, and taxonomic analysis of trees and shrubs in 6 parks out of 18, according to Kolesnikov, Takhtajan, Vernander and others. In heritage parks, 71 species and 3 varieties of trees and shrubs were revealed, belonging to 44 genera, 20 families, which come from five floristic regions. The most abundant Magnoliophyta family is Rosaceae, which is represented by 21 species (28.2 % of the total number of species). We analyzed the correspondence of woody plants to the conditions of their growth. A lot of species that did not fit soil types were planted in heritage parks. About 20 % of megatrophs grow in soils with low fertility. More than 84 % of the tree species of the parks belong to the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and only one species is endangered. The aesthetic evaluation of plantations is low. We recommend cutting diseased and weakened trees and shrubs, also planting highly decorative bio-groups. It is offered a list of trees and shrubs recommended for planting in old parks in the Zhytomyr region.

Abstract

The main components of the cation exchange capacity (CEC) are assessed in order to study the physicochemical properties in Phaeozems. These soils in Bulgaria usually have high humus accumulation, soil texture differentiation, high base saturation and soil reaction suitable for crops. They are spread in plains, valleys, forests and low hills with temperate continental climate. Soil-forming materials are Pliocene and Quaternary sediments, loess and loess-like clays. The soil reaction (pH) varies from slightly acidic to alkaline. Soil alkalinity increases in depth because of high carbonate mineral compounds that mainly contain Ca and Mg. Total acidity and exchange acidity are in very low values. Exchangeable Ca consists about 78 % of CEC. It is established that soil colloids are occupied by Ca and Mg ions, which determined the stability of clay minerals. Phaeozems have favorable physicochemical properties with high cation exchange capacity and base saturation. These soils are highly valued for their fertility potential.

Abstract

The fruits of the black cherry are food for a variety of different species of animals. Therefore, animals have an important role in the spread of black cherries by zoochory. The aim of this study was to determine how the digested black cherry seeds by the badger (Meles meles) digestive system affects the germination efficiency of these seeds after voiding in the badger’s faeces. It was hypothesized that seeds of black cherries collected from badger faeces will show greater germination efficiency in the first year after sowing than non-stratified seeds, stratified seeds and seeds with an exocarp. Black cherry seeds were collected in autumn 2018 at the Forest Arboretum in Zielonka from badger faeces, which comprised the first treatment group of the experiment and from standing trees, and among these seeds there were further variants of treatment. Seeds collected from standing trees were: without pericarp (treatment group), without pericarp and stratified, not cleaned but stratified and seeds untreated (control sample). The first seedlings to emerge were from seeds collected from badger faeces (206 days after sowing). The seeds with intact pericarp had the longest period of emergence, germinating 221 days after sowing. The highest seed germination capacity was noted for seeds from badger faeces (66.4 %), and the lowest one was observed for seeds sown with intact pericarp (15.2 %). Pericarp inhibits seed germination in the first year after sowing.

Abstract

Species of genus Tilia (lime) still did not gain the attention they deserve by researchers and forest managers. Their importance as a significant part of forest biodiversity is expected to increase, especially in the light of changing environment, due to climate change and other factors. We present a mini-review about the genetic resources of Tilia species in Bulgaria. The survey starts with species diversity, including the standing taxonomic problems, and continues with genetic variation. A thorough evaluation of lime species’ genetic resources and their conservation in Bulgaria is performed, facilitated by a specially developed database. Knowledge gaps are identified and some domains for prospective studies are outlined.

Abstract

The growth and development of vegetative and generative organs of Populus alba L., P. balsamifera L., P. bolleana Lauche, P. × canescens (Ait.) Smith., Р. deltoides Bartr. ex Marsh., P. nigra L., P. nigra cv. Italica (Du Roi) Moench, Р. simonii Corr., P. tremula L., and European-American P. deltoides × P. nigra hybrids ʹI-45/51ʹ, ʹBlanc du Poitouʹ, ʹGelricaʹ, ʹMarilandicaʹ, ʹRobustaʹ, ʹSerotinaʹ, ʹTardif de Champagneʹ, and P. × hybridа clones ʹWeresinaʹ and ʹWitschtejnaʹ were studied outdoor for seven years under current climate change. The development of most Populus species and hybrids started in the second half of March – beginning of April when the phase of bud swelling was reached in correspondence of a significant temperature sum from 68 to 112 °С, depending on the species/hybrid considered. In most species, flowering began on April 20th and lasted 9 to 16 days, temperature sum of 93–139 °С, depending on the species. The duration of linear shoot growth was shorter in native species of the genus Populus (118–130 days) than in introduced species (135–140 days). Fruiting began when the temperature sum reached 217– 234 °С in P. tremula, while in P. balsamifera it required 413 °C. The other species required an intermediate temperature sum (299–329 °С) to reach the same phase, which was accumulated in the first ten-day period of June. Discolouration of leaves depended on the date of first autumn frosts and during the study period was shifted by two to three weeks later. After analyzing the timing of phenological phases of growth and development, species and hybrids were assigned to phenological groups characterized by early, mid or late beginning and end of the vegetation period. The knowledge of thermal requirements for key phenological stages is expected to be useful for modelling and predicting growth, flowering and fruiting of poplars, which is crucial to create efficient and productive bioenergy plantations and to take anti-allergic measures during fruiting in the Right-Bank Forest-Steppe of Ukraine.

Abstract

The formation of live biomass of forests is premised on many factors, among which the dominant ones are stands growth conditions and biometric characteristics. The purpose of this research is to develop reference materials for the evaluation of crown live biomass structural components for stands of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) for the conditions of the Northern Steppe of Ukraine. The field research has been carried out in Scots pine and black locust stands of artificial origin subordinated to the State Forest Resources Agency of Ukraine. The research employed the classical forest mensuration techniques for collecting and processing experimental material on 40 test plots. The modelling was preceded by the stage of statistical analysis of the input dataset, which characterizes the live biomass of forest stands’ crown. Mean age, diameter, and height of stands, as well as their relative stocking, have been identified as informative and statistically significant predictors. We have developed the two- and three-factor allometric regression equations for assessment of crown live biomass compo- nents – branches over bark and foliage based on the biometric indices of stands. The adequacy of the models has been estimated by the determination coefficient (0.47–0.71) and Fisher’s F-test. In black locust and Scots pine stands with the same average diameter and relative stocking, live biomass of branches and foliage will be larger in those, where the mean height of the main species is smaller. The obtained allometric equations for assessing the biophysical indices of live biomass subject to this research can be used for practical forestry purposes in the course of forest inventory, determination of harvest volumes, and assessment of ecosystems services.

Abstract

The paper considers the potential impact of allergenic pollen urban dendroflora on public health. The aim of the study was to make quantitative and qualitative analysis of urban park woody taxa emitting allergenic pollen in order to increase the awareness of landscape architects and medical practitioners. The case study was conducted in the second largest park in Bulgaria – Sveti Vrach, Sandanski. The town is famous as climatotherapy and spa resort of international importance. The total number of the investigated trees was 2673, and the number of shrub specimens – approximately 2640. The results from the detailed inventory of park dendroflora estimated that the total number of taxa was 199 in terms of species and the infraspecific taxa, belonging to 49 families and 109 genera. Analysis of the systematic structure of the examined specimens was performed. Geographic distribution, reproductive characteristics, foliage permanence, and allergenicity level of taxa were also analysed. Considering the allergenic potential value of tree species, 34.9 % of tree specimens had a high allergenic potential, 10.6 % of tree individuals had a very high allergenicity level, while 4.8 % – a moderate one. As a result, half of all the researched trees (50.2 %) had a moderate to very high allergic potential. The most frequent shrub species had moderate to low/very low alergenicity potential. Only 4.9 % of shrub specimens had a high to very high allergenicity level. Tree density and Diversity Index were also calculated, as factors that most affect the final allergenicity value of the park. Adopted strategies for risk mitigation has been suggested and addressed to future urban greening initiatives and landscape design for achieving biodiversity-friendly green infrastructure and sustainable urban environment.

Abstract

This is the second part of the study representing the first overall assessment of the ground beetle fauna in the region of the Zlatiya plateau. The study aimed at analyzing the ecological structure of the carabid fauna represented by 6598 adult carabid specimens, belonging to 138 species, 49 genera and 20 tribes. The dominant structure was characteristic with the presence of 2 eudominants numbering 26 % of all specimens (Harpalus rufipes and Harpalus tardus), 4 dominants (26 %), 1 subdominant (3 %), 17 recedents (27 %) and 114 subrecedents (18 %). The analysis of the life forms showed only a slight predominance of the zoophages (71 species; 52 %) over the mixophytophages (67 species; 48 %). Similar ratio (50: 50 %) is mostly approaching to the typical for the steppe zones, for the orchards from the forest-steppe zones, and for the vast deforested territories across Europe. Humidity preferences analysis showed the larger share of the mesoxerophilous carabids. The prevalence of the macropterous carabids reflected their higher mobility and adaptiveness.

Abstract

An effective way to solve the problem of becoming energy more expensive can be found in the use of organic mass of growing woody plants, which are obtained from special energy plantations. Certain positive changes in energy policy in Ukraine in recent years have contributed to a marked increase in the percentage of alternative renewable energy in the energy balance of the country – from 0.5 % of the amount of consumed fuel and energy resources in 1998 to 5.8 % at present. In this paper we evaluated the possibility of obtaining new high-yield willow hybrids based on domestic and foreign cultivars for the creation of energy plantations in the conditions of Polesia and the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine. Breeding works were carried out as interspecific hybridization. Hybridization was conducted in spring 2018 on the cut branches in the laboratory and on branches inseparable from the bush, on which before the flowering female inflorescences was isolated to prevent uncontrolled pollination. The best of the two-year-old hybrid willow forms we have obtained in the course of our research reach a height of 3.0–3.2 m, which indicates their high biological potential and the potential for use in creating energy plantations.

Abstract

The reaction after treatment with selective herbicides was carried out in a nursery plot for production of one-year-old poplar saplings from the type 0/1 from the cultivars ′I-214′ and ′Vernirubens′. Water solutions of the 4 herbicides (H1–H4) with a concentration 5 ml.l-1 and a control variant were tested. Treatments were carried out in five terms: May, June, July, August and September. Final measurements were carried out after the growing season. The estimation of the influence of each herbicide was done after the following indices: survival, height and diameter of the stem; thickness and number of first grade roots; relative moisture of wood of poplar saplings. The results showed that tested herbicides do not influence on the survival of saplings with the exception of a negative influence on cultivar ′Vernirubens′, caused by the herbicide H2. Saplings of cultivar ′I-214′ have faster growth in height than cultivar ′Vernirubens′. Tested cultivars show specific reaction to applied herbicides and best tolerance to H3 (350 g.l-1 Butachlor + 350 g.l-1 Propanil). Herbicides H1 (150 g.l-1 Fluazifop-P-butyl) and H4 (240 g.l-1 Oxyfluorfen) oppress less the growth of saplings at both cultivars, compared to the outlined depressive effect of the herbicide H2 (240 g.l-1 Clethodim). As most suitable was determined the herbicide H3. In the course of production, weed control could be carried out with the help of this herbicide during all phoenophases of the development of saplings.

Abstract

The aim of this work was to assess the availability and uptake of phosphorus in the soils of four forest ecosystems in Greece, i.e. a maquis, a deciduous oak, a beech and a fir forest. The highest concentrations of total P were observed in FH (mixture of F and H) horizons (914 to 1269 mg∙kg-1). In the mineral layers (up to 80 cm depth), the range was 439 to 850 mg∙kg-1. The percentages of the available P with regard to the total P were very low. In the FH horizons, they ranged from 2.4 % in the fir plot to 6.5 % in the beech plot. In the mineral layers, all percentages were less than 1.0 % in all forest types. The concentrations of available P were significantly and positively affected by the contents of soil organic C, total nitrogen and the clay percentage. Negative and significant relations were observed for the ratios P/C, P/N and the percentage of sand, whereas the content of total P did not affect the availability of P significantly. The P uptake by trees was based on the calculation of the above ground litterfall. It was found that, at least for the fir plot, the amounts of available P in soils up to the depth of 20 cm were not enough to cover the tree needs. It is hypothesized that the extra P needed is acquired by the dissolution of secondary minerals by root exudates.

Abstract

The objects of the study were pure and mixed middle-aged beech stands that grow on humid fertile hornbeam-beech forest type conditions on the southern and northern slopes at the altitude of 550–600 m a.s.l. We found a correlative relationship between beech radial increment and climate indices. Average radial increment of beech varies within the limits of 1.71 to 2.41 mm depending on tree composition with the maximum in the mixed stands. The share of early wood and late wood of the annual ring of beech fluctuates within the limits of 83–88 % and 12–17 %, respectively. In the mixed stands that grow on the northern slopes, annual radial increment of beech is maximal. In the mixed and pure forest stands average radial increment of beech on the northern side of the slope compared to the southern side is higher. It has been found that radial increment of the south-facing side of beech trees growing on the southern mountain slope and the north-facing side of them growing on the northern mountain slope is higher in comparison to the opposite side of the trees. Radial increment extremes in many cases are identical with climate indices extremes. In the years of the most intensive solar activity beech radial increment is minimal. Relationship between beech increment and climate indices is stronger in the pure beech stands than it is in the mixed stands. Relationship between beech increment and air temperature as well as precipitation becomes weak in the mixed stands and it is moderate in the pure stands. Beech increment correlates greatly with humidity deficiency, air temperature and precipitation, which is especially marked during the period from 2003 to 2013. Beech wood radial increment correlates closely with air humidity and humidity deficiency both in the pure and in the mixed stands.

Abstract

Every forest governance model development has unique features and lessons to be learned. The institutional reforms in Ukrainian forestry are still in progress but there is lack of assessment and diagnosis of its impacts on Ukrainian forest governance. This paper provides such an assessment for the current status of the Ukrainian forest governance system, using FAO and PROFOR approach. It is based on the assessment of three fundamental pillars of forest governance (I) policy, legal, institutional and regulatory frameworks, (II) planning and decision-making process- es, and (III) implementation enforcement and compliance. A set of indicators, developed within these pillars, was assessed by 53 experts. The results show that Ukrainian forest governance is far from achieving the status of ‘good forest governance’, and can be described rather as ‘poor forest governance’. However, some positive tendencies such as performing well the functions of planning, organization, and control in the Ukrainian forestry are identified.

Abstract

Changes in land use practices such as livestock rearing and crop farming are crucially important for conserving biodiversity in the modern world. This study characterizes the shifts in the diet of the Eagle Owl Bubo bubo population in SE Bulgaria mainly as a result of agro-economic changes and depopulation of settlements. The share of predominant prey species in preferred weight classes from urban and open (mainly gallinaceous birds) habitats decreased significantly after the collapse of traditional livestock husbandry and local abandonment of agricultural land. These species were replaced by wetland ones when available and small rodents especially during population eruptions. The Northern white-breasted hedgehog Erinaceus roumanicus and the European hare Lepus europaeus contributed more as prey for Eagle Owls. Other significantly increased replacement prey species in the Eagle owl diet consisted of predatory mammals and birds as well as many smaller species typical of open and wood-shrubby habitats. High proportions of the latter prey groups characterized the annual diets of the studied population after resumption of farming operations and indicated at least temporary food shortages for Eagle Owls. The characteristic direction of diet shifts at the subpopulation level in the particular breeding clusters responded to the agro-economic changes and the landscapes of hunting territories. Despite diet changes, the average prey weight and the food niche breadth of successfully breeding Eagle Owl pairs differed insignificantly at a population level over the time series, except during two years with vole outbreaks.

Abstract

Rabic infection currently determines the epidemic and epizootic state in many countries. In this study, we revealed the value of red fox (Vulpes vulpes Linnaeus, 1758) as a carrier of rabies in the forest zone. Altogether, the research was conducted in 22 districts and the city of Saransk during the period from 2009 to 2018. The work uses a comprehensive epizootological analysis, including methods of modern diagnostics, veterinary and sanitary statistics, epizootological examination, as well as other methods generally accepted in epizootology. When determining the boundaries of the risk of rabies virus in the Republic, we found that the main clusters of epizootic foci of infection are located on the territory of Bolsheignatovskiy, Ichalkovskiy, Chamzinskiy and Atyashevskiy districts. It was found that the expansion of the infection zone over the years on the territory of the Republic is associated with the dynamics of the main host of the pathogen – red fox. In our Republic, the population density of foxes varies from 1.1 to 1.6 individuals per 1000 ha. In some areas, it is twice the average. The highest population density was observed in 2010 – 1.6 individuals per 1000 ha. The same year, there was a large proportion (66 %) of infected foxes with rabies, compared to other animals. The first rise of diseases coincides with the period of fox rut (early spring) and the second-with the settlement of young animals (autumn-winter).

Abstract

This article targets current situation of Restriction of Hazards Substances (RoHS), Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of Chemicals (REACH), Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment’s (WEEE) and Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) compliance and management in developing countries. The study focus is on adaptation challenges and related environmental protection issues within Pakistan. The emphasis is on how European Union (EU) and other global legislation can mitigate the environmental challenges triggered by EEE (Electrical and Electronic Equipment’s) products if EU practices are considered as a role model for developing countries. The aim of this study is threefold: a) to review the challenges in adaptation of environmental legislation already in place in EU and other countries related to electronic industry; b) to review the existing practices related to EEE’s related environmental and human health hazards within Pakistan; and c) to discuss the recommendations on how the legislations if adopted in a developing countries like Pakistan can minimize the adverse influence of EEE’s on the environment and human health and support national development cause. The study finds that there are huge gaps to reach the optimum level of adequate EEE’s base level management (production) and e-waste recycling. To the best of authors’ knowledge for Pakistan this is the first time a study on adopting key legislations like EU RoHS, EU REACH, and The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform 2010 has been carried out. Similarly, 2019 EEE’s Tsunami (Phthalates invasion) are highlighted for first time for government and policy makers in developing countries like Pakistan. This study recommends that switching to these legislations can be useful to tackle the rapidly growing EEE’s related environmental, public health and other social issues.

Abstract

The anthropogenic pollution of the Yantra River was assessed during six year period (2013– 2018) in terms of metals in key sites along the river, pointed near to industrial activities, municipal effluents and pollution from tributaries in the catchment area. The assessment of metal concentrations in the water samples was made in accordance with Directive 2000/60/EC – Water Framework Directive and its equivalent criteria transposed into the Water Law in Bulgaria. The results show that the concentrations of metals, such as Hg and Cd, were above the permissible limits of the Bulgarian surface water standard especially in S1 point (the Yantra River near Debe- letz). The application of hierarchical cluster analysis for the interpretation of a large and complex dataset obtained during a monitoring program of surface water in the Yantra River is presented in this study. The hierarchical clustering of data shows a correlation between Fe, Mn, Cr, Mg, Ca, Zn, which proves that the increase of Fe concentration could be mainly related to the increased number of the landfills and the unregulated pollution of the catchment area. The overall quality of the Yantra river water corresponds to the descriptive indicator of ‘very good’ water despite the numerous populated places and industrial activities on the territory of the Yantra River basin. The obtained results would be useful in an in-depth future assessment of the general condition of the Yantra River system.

Abstract

The paper presents results of the first study on the ground beetle fauna in the region of the Zlatiya Plateau. It aimed at clarifying the species composition and analyzing the zoogeographical structure of the carabid fauna followed by a subsequent assessment of the environmental trends and the extent of anthropogenic impact. Field work was carried out in the period March – October 2008. Ground beetles were collected with pitfall traps in 8 sampling sites representing the differ- ent types of habitats in the area. A total of 6598 adult carabid specimens were captured. They belonged to 138 species, 49 genera, and 20 tribes, representing almost 19 % of the species, 39 % of the genera and 56 % of the tribes included in the list of carabids of Bulgaria. The most species-rich was the genus Harpalus (25 species), followed by the genera Amara (14 species), Ophonus (13 species) and Pterostichus (11 species). The most abundant in specimens was the genus Harpalus (2461 ex.). The most abundant species were: Harpalus tardus (908 ex.), Harpalus rufipes (829 ex.), Calathus fuscipes (567 ex.), Brachinus crepitans (414 ex.), Pterostichus melas (355 ex.), Abax carinatus (348 ex.), Ophonus laticollis (199 ex.), Anchomenus dorsalis (168 ex.), Carabus coriaceus (168 ex.). For Ophonus convexicollis, а second certain location for Bulgaria was reported. Six species were new for the whole Bulgarian Danubian Plain: Leistus ferrugineus, Amara sabulosa, Harpalus melancholicus, Pangus scaritides, Microlestes fulvibasis, Microlestes minutulus. Remarkably, 120 species were new for the Western Danubian Plain, where the studied site is located. Most of the species were European-Neareastern (18 %), European and Central Asian (18 %), and Palearctic (12 %).

Abstract

A comparative analysis of the rate of return on investments in a fast-growing poplar planta- tion in South Bulgaria and in two-room residential apartments in Sofia (average area 68 sq.m.) (including a room and a bedroom), differentiated by districts has been made. The investigation is based on the concept accepted in the normative basis, which determined these kinds of estates as real. It is motivated by the necessity to reveal suitable and perspective variants for invest- ments, according to the utilities and abilities of a wide range of potential investors. Both static and dynamic methods have been applied for assessment of the rate of return on investments in a medium-period perspective. As a result of the carried out investigations it is determined that the rate of return is 4.01 % and it is expected to raise along with raising of the demand of poplar wood material. The advantage of this kind of investment is that it does not require a large amount of capital; it is ecological and allows using lands in rural areas. The rate of return of investment in residential real estates varies from 6.27 % to 15.26 % depending on the location and the result is always positive.

Abstract

Linden species (Tilia spp.) are the most spread woody species in the street side plantings in Kyiv. It is determined that all linden species that grow along streets or sidewalks are in a poor state. The visual signs of scorch varied from severe to minimal damages (leaves collected in different parts of city). The control samples were collected in the conditions with minimal level of anthropogenic pressure (stands in the city outskirts). These were healthy leaves, without any visual signs of biotic or abiotic damages. In the leaves with maximal level of necrosis and chlorosis damages (to 90 % of leaf blade area) we found very high level of sodium ions and minimal level of potassium ions. Consequently, there is ionic imbalance in plant tissues – potassium ions are substituted for sodium ions. These chemical elements are monovalent and in the process of nutrient uptake the plant does not differentiate them. Accumulation of Na+ ions and decrease of К+ ions is typical to all the linden species growing along streets. Little-leaf linden is the most susceptible to salt contamination; however, it is an aboriginal species in Kyiv city conditions. Absence of biotic origin of necrosis and chlorosis on linden leaves is confirmed by luminescent analysis of photosynthetic apparatus – photo- and thermoinduction of chlorophyll fluorescence. Consequently, the results of conducted research allow to state that lindens are not suitable for growing in salt contaminated soils. In anthropogenically transformed (urban) conditions it is reasonable to select salt-tolerant wood species.