Protection and sustainable use of floodplain forests of Ukraine by using the habitat concept of nature conservation ; Збереження та невиснажливе використання заплавних лісів України з урахуванням підходів оселищної концепції охорони природи

Based on our own research and analysis of literature data, the classification of floodplain forest habitats of Ukraine is given. They have a big scientific importance, as they have an extremely large ecosystem value. At the same time the area of floodplain forests is decreasing dramatically. The current state of floodplain vegetation research is highlighted. It is indicated that they are endangered both in Ukraine and in Europe. As a result of our study, 6 types of habitats of floodplain forests according to the National Habitat Catalogue of Ukraine were identified. Identification was based on the analysis of the structure of the vegetation cover and is given by using a Braun-Blanquet approach. As a result, 4 classes, 5 orders and 6 alliances were distinguished. Their conservation status was determined in accordance with the European Union Directive 92/43/ECC and Resolution 4 of the Berne Convention. A list of rare species for each type of habitat, ecological characteristic, features of their sustainable use, and also anthropogenic and natural threats were identified. A brief description of their distribution was provided. The correspondence of units from the National Habitat Catalogue of Ukraine to units of Pogrebnyak's forest typological classification was carried out. Treats in generative and vegetative reproduction of dominant woody species were shown. The data obtained in our research can be used in the practice of forestry measures and for providing a better forest management. It was established that all floodplain habitats are rare, 23 rare plant species from the Red Data Book of Ukraine were found in those habitats, consequently they require a special sociological status and recommendations for more sustainable management. It was found that the climate humidity is the most critical (limiting) factor for the studied biotopes. All of them are threatened according to the change of the hydrological regime and land melioration. A special threat is a growing influence of adventive plant species with high ...