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The amounts of biomass in ecosystems depends on the efficiency of energy gathering in organic chemical bonds by autotrophs, which are the only organisms that synthesize inorganic compounds into organic compounds structured into biomass. Plant species composition in the vegetation patch and the associated microorganism communities are factors that affect the matter and energy flow in the ecosystem. In human-established or severely transformed novel ecosystems, in particular in mineral-poor, oligotrophic habitats, the knowledge about the biotic parameters related to the biomass amount is very limited. The presented studies were performed on post-black coal mining heaps that provide the mineral material habitat. The following biotic parameters, the vegetation plant species composition of the distinguished vegetation types, soil organic matter, soil enzymatic activity, soil fauna presence, and the functional aspect of soil carbon release concerning amount of biomass are considered. The aim of this research was to analyze the influence of the selected biotic factors on the biomass amount in the vegetation patches of the studied sites. The results showed that the effect of the species composition diversity on the biomass amount is complex. The influences of soil enzyme activity on biomass amount are dependent on the enzyme presence and the vegetation type. Similarly, the impact of the soil organic matter (SOM) on the biomass amount is significantly different and dependent on vegetation type. The relationship between the amount of biomass and respiration showed that the biomass of the dominant plant species is positively correlated with the biomass amount in the studied vegetation types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biodiversity, including the diversity of autotrophic organisms of mostly plant species, assembled in vegetation patches and its impact on the course of ecosystem processes is still a key subject of research in natural sciences around the world. Certain aspects of the relationship between biodiversity and CO2 release processes have been studied only in some natural and semi-natural ecosystems (semi-natural ecosystems such as meadow or grasslands). In contrast, very little is known about the biotic parameters related to natural processes and the functioning of novel ecosystems. This study was performed on post-black coal mining heaps. The studied sites were established on carboniferous mineral material. Among the considered biotic parameters, the vegetation plant species composition, soil organic matter, soil enzymatic activity, soil fauna presence, and the plant species biomass were studied. The aim of the research was to analyse the influence of the selected biotic factors on the CO2 release from the mineral material of black coal mining heaps' novel ecosystems. The range of CO2 release at the analysed sites was 0.00158–1.21462 [g CO2/m2/h]. The activity of soil enzymes such as dehydrogenase, acid phosphatase, and basic phosphatase was positively correlated with the amount of CO2 released, however, there was no correlation between urease activity and CO2 emissions from the soil. In our study, a comparison of the soil organic matter developed under the vegetation types studied and CO2 release (rate) showed a dependence on vegetation type. The amount of biomass was not linearly correlated with CO2 release from the soil. The presence of soil fauna displayed a positive effect on CO2 release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earthworks in the vicinity of roads, open mines, subsidence tanks and other man-made objects can lead to the creation of slopes that undergo erosion. One of the methods that can prevent their degradation and reclaim them is the use of geotextiles. An environmentally friendly option is using geotextiles that are produced from reclaimed fibres. The purpose of this study was to examine the role of the mechanical and chemical properties of geotextiles, namely, ropes and fibres (containing wool and polypropylene), not only on the rate of the greening of slopes but also on the species composition of vegetation. We studied the floristic composition, species diversity, species growth and soil properties of four sites of reclaimed slopes on which 46 study plots (5 m × 5 m) were laid out. We found that some species were more confined to a higher content of wool and that other species were more confined to the content of polypropylene. Both materials caused a decrease in the Shannon–Wiener diversity but an increase in evenness under the impact of ropes when compared to the control. They both also contributed to a higher mean height of the plants when compared to the control. The rate of the plant colonisation process was markedly improved by the reclaimed geotextiles. A longer and more detailed study is required to examine the effect of geotextile ropes on habitat creation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This account presents information on all aspects of the biology of Quercus rubra L. (Red Oak, Northern Red Oak; syn. Q. borealis, Q. maxima) that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics are presented within the standard framework of the Biological Flora of the British Isles: distribution; habitat; communities; responses to biotic factors; responses to environment; structure and physiology; phenology; floral and seed characters; herbivores and disease; history; and conservation.Quercus rubra is a large deciduous tree native to eastern North America. In its native range this species is one of the most important mid‐successional tree species. Since the 18th century Q. rubra has been introduced into forest management in Europe and elsewhere. Currently, Q. rubra is a naturalized species in 23 countries. It is an important source of wood, and this was one of the most important reasons for its introduction in forests. In forest management this species is valued for its high growth rate and drought resistance. Red Oak is also widely cultivated in Europe for its ornamental value—red leaves in autumn and smooth, grey bark.Red Oak is a threat to native species within its introduced range as it can alter environmental conditions beneath its canopy, especially by decreasing light availability and litter decomposition rate. Such conditions also contribute to biotic homogenization of the understorey vegetation. Q. rubra is widely dispersed by small mammals and birds, up to 1,500 m from seed sources, thereby increasing its potential invasiveness.In Europe Q. rubra seems to be less prone to herbivores and fungi, in contrast to its native range, where it is grazed by ungulates and insects, and infected by Phytophthora and oak wilt. Due to its higher tolerance to drought than native European oaks, Q. rubra is claimed to be one of the species replacing native trees which are decreasing due to climate warming. However, consideration of all possible consequences is needed in wide‐scale introduction of alien species, such as Q. rubra, due to negative impacts on native ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vertical distribution of epiphytic bryophytes in European forests are still relatively poorly understood. The aim of the study was to analyse the diversity and vertical zonation of epiphytic mosses and liverworts on selected tree types (Quercus petraea, Betula pendula and Pinus sylvestris) within windthrow areas in the Kampinoski National Park (Central Poland). The investigations were performed in five parts of the trees: the tree base, lower trunk, upper trunk, lower crown, and upper crown. Deciduous trees have more species than pine trees (13 on Quercus and Betula, 8 on Pinus). The type of phorophyte was crucial for the differences in the species composition from the tree base to the upper crown that was observed. The highest richness of bryophytes was recorded on the tree bases, while the lowest was recorded in the upper parts of the crowns. The variability of the habitat conditions in the vertical gradient on the trunk that affected the patterns of the occurrence of species with different ecological preferences was determined using the Ellenberg indicator values. An increase in the value of the light and acidity indicators from the base of the trunk upwards and decreasing tendency in the case of moisture indicator was noted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main goal of this study was to check whether the process of the colonization of coarse woody debris (CWD) is random or is determined by the wood traits and the environment. The study was conducted in the Karkonosze Mts., a part of Sudeten Mts. (Poland). We recorded the CWD traits and site conditions for 453 logs of spruce (Picea abies) and beech (Fagus sylvatica), which were either colonized or not colonized by vascular plants. Principal Components Analysis (PCA), a statistical comparison of two categories of logs using the Wilcoxon's sum rank test and Generalized Linear Model (GLM) were applied. P. abies logs were colonized significantly more frequently than F. sylvatica logs. PCA demonstrated that the groups of colonized and non-colonized logs significantly differed overall in both species. The colonization status of a given log was significantly associated with CWD traits and site conditions. Decomposition class, the log diameter and the cover of bryophytes in F. sylvatica and P. abies, as well as altitude in the latter species, were significant factors that increased the probability of dead wood colonization by vascular plants. The results supported the hypothesis that vascular plants do not colonize all of the available logs and that the process of establishment is not random. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main goal of this study was to check whether the process of the colonization of coarse woody debris (CWD) is random or is determined by the wood traits and the environment. The study was conducted in the Karkonosze Mts., a part of Sudeten Mts. (Poland). We recorded the CWD traits and site conditions for 453 logs of spruce (Picea abies) and beech (Fagus sylvatica), which were either colonized or not colonized by vascular plants. Principal Components Analysis (PCA), a statistical comparison of two categories of logs using the Wilcoxon's sum rank test and Generalized Linear Model (GLM) were applied. P. abies logs were colonized significantly more frequently than F. sylvatica logs. PCA demonstrated that the groups of colonized and non-colonized logs significantly differed overall in both species. The colonization status of a given log was significantly associated with CWD traits and site conditions. Decomposition class, the log diameter and the cover of bryophytes in F. sylvatica and P. abies, as well as altitude in the latter species, were significant factors that increased the probability of dead wood colonization by vascular plants. The results supported the hypothesis that vascular plants do not colonize all of the available logs and that the process of establishment is not random. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the applicability of Ellenberg’s indicator values (EIVs) on coarse woody debris (CWD). Given that a small number of vascular plant species forms the pool of potential colonizers, we wanted to examine whether the properties of decaying logs and site characteristics can be predicted using EIVs. A comparison was made between the EIVs of the flora inhabiting mineral soil and plants colonizing 364 decaying logs of Picea abies and Fagus sylvatica in the Karkonosze Mts., southern Poland. We used correlation tests to assess the relationships between the mean and weighted EIVs and the decomposition stage of a decaying log, light conditions and moisture as well as the altitude at which the dead logs were lying. There were no significant differences in the mean EIVs between the species growing on mineral soil and CWD, except for the soil reaction, which was higher on the spruce logs. The plants colonizing decaying downed trees reflect the climatic conditions and altitude, i.e. elevation index, approximated heat load and vegetational gradient better than the edaphic conditions, i.e. the properties of dead wood such as its decomposition and moisture. We concluded that, in spite of the fact that in terms of biotopes fallen trees can be treated as synusia in forest communities, bioindication using the EIVs is not only possible but also predictable. Species that are present on CWD thus should be included in assessments of forest habitat conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vegetation science including phytosociology, visual estimates of plant cover and point method belong to the common field method to record species composition and their abundance. Two methods were compared: Braun-Blanquet scale and point method using Levy bridge. A group of students performed measurements in five plots belonged to an oak-hornbeam forest Tilio-Carpinetum. It was revealed that there is a very high discrepancy in a observed number of species. Total mean numbers obtained are 13.4 and 31.2 for point method and Braun-Blanquet method respectively. However, there is the significant positive and medium correlation between two methods in terms of estimation of abundance of species. It can be concluded that point-method is not suitable for study of forest floor vegetation. It can be merged with other methods. Due to many repetitive measures, it can be helpful in learning of recognition of species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrate reductase activity (NRA) was studied in the invasive alien plant F. japonica (Japanese knotweed) during the vegetation season and among natural, semi-natural, and human-made habitats and compared with NRA in selected native species. NRA was measured directly in the field from the beginning of May until the beginning of October. NRA was much higher than in the plant's native range, i.e., East Asia, and showed a high degree of variation over time with the highest values being reached at the stage of fast vegetative growth and at the beginning of fruiting. NRA was highest on dumping sites probably due to the high nitrogen input into soils and near traffic and the emission of NOx by vehicles. A comparison of the enzyme activity in four selected native plant species indicated that NRA in F. japonica was the highest with the exception of Urtica dioica, which exhibited a similar activity of the enzyme. A detailed comparison with this species showed that differences between these species on particular dates were influenced by differences in the phenology of both plants. The initial results that were obtained suggest that nitrogen pollution in an environment can contribute to habitat invasibility and a high level of NRA, which in addition to the many plant traits that are commonly accepted as characteristic of invasiveness features, may be an important factor that enhances invasion success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interactions between invasive plants and root endophytes may contribute to the exploration of plant invasion causes. Twenty plant species of alien origin differing in invasiveness were studied in terms of status and typical structures of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and dark septate endophytes (DSE) in urban habitats in Silesia Upland (southern Poland). We observed that 75 % of investigated plant species were mycorrhizal. The arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) of most plant species was of the Arum morphology. The nearly 100 % mycorrhizal frequency, high intensity of AM colonization within root cortex and the presence of arbuscules in all mycorrhizal plant species indicate that the investigated species are able to establish AM associations in the secondary range and urban habitats. DSE were present in all mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal species. The frequency of DSE was significantly lower in non-mycorrhizal group of plants, however, sclerotia of DSE were found mainly in the roots of non-mycorrhizal plant species. The group of species native to North America including three Solidago congeners have the highest values of all AM mycorrhization and DSE indices. Moreover, we observed that most mycorrhizal invasive species belonged to the family Asteraceae. In turn, representatives of Poaceae had the lowest values of AM mycorrhization. Nevertheless, quite high values of DSE frequency were also encountered in roots of Poaceae species. The high invasiveness of the representatives of the Asteraceae family from North America support theory that both taxonomic pattern, and the fact of root endophytes colonization contribute to invasion success. While, the taxa of Reynoutria also represent successful invaders but they are of Asiatic origin, non-mycorrhizal and weakly colonized by DSE fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Poland there are three invasive species of the genus Solidago native to North America. In the years 2010-2015 field survey in five tows in Oswiecim Basin and its vicinity was performed which aimed to examine frequency, habitat preferences and basic parameters of populations of these species. Amongst invasive goldenrods S. canadensis (79 localities) and S. gigantea (74) prevailed in the study area and are much more frequent than S. graminifolia (8). Populations of goldenrods were not very abundant and did not occupy large area, however, there were populations exceeding 500 m2 and that had more than 500 ramets except for S. graminifolia which occur at low densities. The Canadian goldenrod S. canadensis tended to occur more frequently in ruderal and segetal habitats than S. gigantea whereas S. graminifolia was encountered only at fallows. Both S. gigantea and S. canadensis were reported to occur in wetland habitats and sometimes formed monospecific stands what prove negative influence on biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Riparian zones in two rivers in southern Poland were studied in terms of species composition and soil parameters in patches dominated by three knotweed taxa (Fallopia japonica, F. sachalinensis and the hybrid F. ×bohemica). The main purpose was to detect any differences in species diversity, environmental conditions and in the impact of the three Fallopia spp. on resident species. Fieldwork was conducted in spring and summer in 30 invaded plots (in total 90 subplots). It was demonstrated that vegetation dominated by particular knotweed taxa differed in response to soil pH and ammonium, nitrate, and magnesium content. Fallopia spp. (living plants and necromass) had a stronger negative impact on the cover and species diversity of the resident species in summer in comparison with spring. Vegetation patches differed significantly in species composition in relation to the knotweed taxa present. These differences may be the consequence of the differentiated biotopic requirements of Fallopia taxa and the coexisting plants, or to the different impact of the knotweed taxa on the resident species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Northern Red Oak is a tree species native to North America. In Polish flora it has status of invasive plants. In the years 2008-2011 autoecological studies were conducted aiming at examination on what type of soils the species tends to regenerate ie appearance of seedlings in the vicinity of maternal trees. In total 250 phytosociological relevés and 100 soil samples (400 soil subsamples) were collected. It was observed that majority stands (almost 80%) of Northern Red Oak occupy sites very strongly acid and strongly acid. In reference to pH in KCl results are a little different, however, sites with soil very strongly acid (pH = 4.1-5.0) and stronly acid (pH < 4.1) also predominate. The investigated soils were typified by very low values of magnesium (< 10 mg/1000 g), phosphorus (< 3 mg/100 g) and potassium (< 7 mg/100 g). Total nitrogen in studied sites dominated in two the lowest classes (> 0.25%). The sites of Q. rubra are rich in organic carbon. Almost 50% of all sites covers two highest classes of concentration of this element ie 4.0-8.0% and > 8.0%. Soils where seedlings of Northern Red Oak were encountered, were characterized by humus medium for mezotrophic and eutrophic broad-leaved forests and mixed coniferous forests - more than 60% had ratio of carbon and nitrogen CN > 25. In several sites this ratio reached 50. The lower values in case of content of calcium and loss on ignition dominate. The studies showed that soils on which species grows and also spontaneously regenerates are typical for coniferous and mixed coniferous forests, however, in natural range Q. rubra is component of deciduous forests. It could be associated with the fact of more frequent introduction of Northern Red Oak into poorer sites than the consequence of its habitat requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper examines the relationships between the species composition of flower visitors and plants in the semi-natural xerothermic grasslands in southern and central Poland. Thirty 10 x 10 m permanent plots were laid out in total, mainly in nature reserves. The vegetation units studied were classified according to the Braun-Blanquet system; these were phytocoenoses of the Festuco-Brometea classes Inuletum ensifoliae, Adonido-Brachypodietum pinnati and the transitional plant community. Entomological research was performed using the Pollard method within the same plots. A particular site was visited only once and different sites were studied between April and August 2008. We applied, among others, co-correspondence-analysis Co-CA, detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) and redundancy analysis (RDA) to investigate the co-occurrence patterns of plants and flower visitors and their biotopic requirements. We found that the species composition of flower visitors cannot be predicted by floristic composition when the duration of the study is restricted to one day (but under similar weather conditions); however, there is a positive relationship between the species richness of insects and plants and a positive relationship between the number of plant species and the abundance of flower visitors. The Ellenberg moisture index and the cover of meadow species significantly explained the species composition of insects. The three various vegetation units and five dominant xerothermic species, i.e. Adonis vernalis, Anemone sylvestris, Inula ensifolia, Linum hirsutum and Carlina onopordifolia that were studied across time differed in the species richness of insects. Our results demonstrate that possible patterns in the species composition and the assembly rules of flower visitors are not apparent when the Pollard method is applied. Based on the data obtained using this method, the flower visiting assemblages seem not to be driven by competition and they primarily show a tendency to co-occur which can be an artifact. A plant-focused method that included a rarefaction analysis yielded more insightful results and shed more light on the differences between the dominant plants that shape the physiognomy of plant communities in a possible pollination specialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Invasive alien plants can benefit from interactions with mycorrhizal fungi in their spread and competition with native species. Hitherto, little was known about the ecological conditions related to the presence of arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) in the annual invasive alien species Impatiens parviflora. The soil properties, plant morphometric features, mycorrhizal status, degree of root colonization and morphotype of arbuscular mycorrhiza were evaluated in different forest communities: alder-ash carrs, oak-hornbeam forests, beech forests and mixed forests. Mycorrhizal plants of this species were found in all of the analyzed forest communities and the Arum-type of morphology was reported. The largest and most fecund individuals as well as the highest mycorrhizal frequency (F%) and relative arbuscular richness (A%) were recorded in individuals from populations growing in alder-ash carrs and oak-hornbeam forests. A comparison of sites where non-mycorrhizal AM− and mycorrhizal AM+ individuals of I. parviflora were found revealed that AM+ plants grow on soils with a higher magnesium content and that were more alkalized. The Pearson and Spearman correlations yielded positive significant coefficients with respect to the relationships between mycorrhizal frequency and pH. The arbuscule richness in root fragments where mycorrhiza was present (a%) was found to be positively correlated with pH and Ellenberg moisture as well. However, the ratio of C/N was negatively correlated with F% and a%. The mean height of plants was positively correlated with (F%), relative mycorrhizal root length (M%) and relative arbuscular richness (A%). The latter were also positively correlated with the number of flowers and fruits. The study revealed that I. parviflora is not an obligatory mycorrhizal plant and AM seems to influence the growth and reproduction of this plant, and that it can indirectly enable the spread and naturalization of the species. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The way of disposing of rock mineral material has a significant impact on subsequent spontaneous vegetation succession, soil properties, and respiration. We compared seven spontaneously vegetated samples from a large (2 km2) borrow pit used to dispose of the byproducts of a hard coal mine with seven plots from four coal mine spoil heap piles. We used BIOLOG EcoPlates to assess the microbial catabolic activity of the substrate. The substrate in the borrow pit was characterized by higher water content and lower temperature compared to the heap pile substrate. The borrow pit had a more diverse plant community structure. Higher Rao's quadratic entropy, functional richness, and functional divergence were also calculated from plant functional traits in borrow pit samples. Although borrow pit samples showed higher total microbial biomass, bacteria/fungi ratio, and gram+/gram− ratio, and heap pile samples showed higher soil enzymatic activity, microbial functional diversity, and catabolic activity, these differences were not significant. Soil respiration from the borrow pit substrate was two folds higher. The borrow pit method of disposing of rock mineral material can be suggested to speed up spontaneous vegetation succession. This research provides new insights into the effects of burying hard coal byproducts in borrow pits and offers guidance for the management of hard coal mining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest management practices fundamentally impact the structure of a forest (relatively young stage of forest development, dominating stands with only one or two species of trees, planting coniferous tree species on habitats of deciduous forests, introducing alien tree species, very limited volume of dead wood). Bryophytes are especially sensitive to silvicultural practices. The aim of this study was to examine the importance of particular substrates for maintaining bryophyte species diversity in the Murckowski Forest (Silesian Upland S Poland), which is at present a managed forest. In 100 sampling plots, the structure of the forest and the species composition, frequency and abundance of bryophytes on different types of substrates (ground, tree base, tree trunk and dead wood) were analysed. In total, 54 bryophyte species were recorded (five liverworts and 49 mosses). The largest number of species was observed on dead wood (42), while the lowest number was of typical epiphytes growing on tree trunks bark more than 30 cm above the ground (18). This study confirms that dead wood is a key habitat and determines not only the number of epixylic species, but also the whole richness of bryophyte species. Maximal diameter of trees and presence of old tree stands were significant factors for species that were colonizing the tree bases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the changes in the species composition of aphids living in dry calcareous grasslands in Central Europe over a 25-year period. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first analysis of this type in the world that takes into account both previous and current data on species richness as well as groups of aphids that are distinguishable on the basis of biological and ecological criteria such as host-alternation and feeding types, life cycle, ecological niche, symbiosis with ants and their ecological functional groups. Over the period of more than 25 years, there has been a significant decrease in aphid α-diversity, from 171 to 105 species. The gain, which is in species not previously recorded, was 17 taxa. The loss of biodiversity occurred despite the fact that these habitats are protected and are valuable regional biodiversity hotspots. The losses are mostly related to intensive human activity in adjacent areas, which, unfortunately, has resulted in the isolation of these small, protected environmental islands by the removal of ecological corridors. Since, as is shown in this study, the frequencies between individual biological and ecological groups of aphids have been retained, it would be possible to restrict this loss of biodiversity if appropriate actions are taken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The enemy release hypothesis (ERH) attributes the invasive behavior of some alien species to decreased pressure from natural enemies, as they have been left behind in the host's native range. The majority of research supports this idea, but some studies confirm it only partially or even contradict it. Here, we present the results of ERH tests of three Impatiens species studied in southern Poland in 2010-2011. Two of them are alien and invasive in Europe (Impatiens glandulifera, I. parviflora) and one is native (I. noli-tangere). We compared the three species in terms of the percentage of all leaves showing symptoms of disease and/or damage and also the number of pests recorded on the monitored plants. In 1071 individual plant controls, we assessed 17 180 leaves, 7552 of which showed symptoms of disease/damage and we recorded 5721 invertebrates, 5220 of them were pests. Rusts and spots were the predominant symptoms and Aphidoidea were the dominant group of pests. Comparisons of the two alien and one native Impatiens did not confirm the ERH in 90% of the performed tests. Most of the differences between the species were not significant and most of the significant ones contradicted the ERH. The only results confirming the ERH were found in comparisons between I. parviflora and I. noli-tangere. The tests between two alien species showed that I. parviflora was under higher pest pressure, while I. glandulifera had more disease and damage symptoms, thus, plant-enemy relations differed between the two balsams. In summary, the presented results add evidence that the success of some alien species may depend on factors related to biotic and/or abiotic conditions in ways that are not explained by the enemy release hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the changes in the species composition of aphids living in dry calcareous grasslands in Central Europe over a 25-year period. To the best of our knowledge, this is the fi rst analysis of this type in the world that takes into account both previous and current data on species richness as well as groups of aphids that are distinguishable on the basis of biological and ecological criteria such as host-alternation and feeding types, life cycle, ecological niche, symbiosis with ants and their ecological functional groups. Over the period of more than 25 years, there has been a signifi cant decrease in aphid α-diversity, from 171 to 105 species. The gain, which is in species not previously recorded, was 17 taxa. The loss of biodiversity occurred despite the fact that these habitats are protected and are valuable regional biodiversity hotspots. The losses are mostly related to intensive human activity in adjacent areas, which, unfortunately, has resulted in the isolation of these small, protected environmental islands by the removal of ecological corridors. Since, as is shown in this study, the frequencies between individual biological and ecological groups of aphids have been retained, it would be possible to restrict this loss of biodiversity if appropriate actions are taken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mosses (Bryophyta), particularly species of the genus Sphagnum, which have been used for centuries for the treatment of skin diseases and damage, are still not explored enough in terms of their use in cosmetics. The purpose of this study was to determine the antioxidant properties of water–ethanol extracts from four selected species of the genus Sphagnum (S. girgenshonii Russow, S. magellanicum Brid., S. palustre L., and S. squarrosum Crome) and their impact on the expression of genes encoding key enzymes for the functioning of the skin. In this study, the effects of Sphagnum extracts on the expression of genes encoding tyrosinase, collagenase, elastase, hyaluronidase and hyaluronic acid synthase in human dermal fibroblasts were determined for the first time in vitro. The extracts inhibited tyrosinase gene expression and showed antioxidant activity. The experiment showed an increase in the expression of some genes encoding collagenase (MMP1) or hyaluronidase (HYAL2, HYAL3 and HYAL4) and a decrease in the hyaluronan synthase (HAS1, HAS2 and HAS3) genes expression by the tested extracts. The obtained results suggest that using extracts from the tested Sphagnum species in anti-aging cosmetics does not seem beneficial. Further studies are needed to clarify their impact on the skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the vascular plants there is a lack of the typical epixylous species but they are a constant component on decaying wood. Their distribution patterns on this kind of substrate seem to be the least known among phototrophs. A total of 454 dead logs of Picea abies were analyzed with regard to cover of vascular plants and the independent morphometric features of logs and altitude. Four types of forest were compared, and the frequency and cover of the most frequent species were analyzed across the forest communities along the decomposition stage. Among the logs that were studied, 292 were colonized by vascular plants. The highest number of colonized logs was recorded in Calamagrostio villosae- Piceetum and the lowest in a deciduous beech forest of the Fagetalia order. Detrended correspondence analysis revealed that the dead logs occurring in the four forest communities differed significantly in species composition. Constrained correspondence analysis showed that six variables significantly explained the species variation, i.e., altitude, shade, moisture, decomposition stage, cover of bryophytes and status of forest (protected vs. managed). The results of the indicator value method indicated that of the 34 found species, ten could be treated as indicator species for the forest communities that were analyzed. The statistical analysis did not confirm significant role of coarse woody debris as a secondary habitat for rare and protected vascular plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional methods of quantifying the harmful effects of invertebrates on plants require time-consuming identification of large numbers of individuals at species level. Collected specimens usually are killed; this may be unacceptable for some strictly protected species and may bias the results of subsequent surveys at the same site. We developed a “harmfulness scale” for quick, non-invasive assessment of invertebrate impacts on plants, and used the scale to test differences in invertebrate attack on species ofBalsaminaceae,PolygonaceaeandAsteraceaegrowing in lowland and mountains in Poland. In 2010–2011, we recorded 9190 invertebrates and identified themin situto family or superfamily level. Among them were 7593 pests, accounting for 82.6% of all recorded organisms. Pests were three times more numerous in the mountains than in the lowland.Balsaminaceaewere most heavily attacked by pests (92.9% of all organisms detected on them).Aphidoideaewere the most numerous pests. This method can help reduce the costs and labour required for this type of research, facilitating progress in theoretical biology and in the development of practical phytosanitary measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 96 epixylic bryophytes on 574 fallen logs were studied in Karkonosze Mts (Poland). • 42 relationships between traits of species and environmental factors were revealed. • Three guilds of mosses and liverworts were distinguished differing in 12 plant traits. • Mosses and liverwort traits are useful indicator of deadwood decay. Although species composition, species diversity and the frequency of epixylic bryophytes is quite well recognised in Central Europe, the patterns associated with their plant traits are still relatively unknown. The main objective of this study was to determine which plant traits best explain the colonization of coarse woody debris (CWD) by the bryophytes and associate them with environmental factors. Moreover, we wanted to examine whether there are internal guilds of epixylic liverworts and mosses based on their plant traits. The research was performed in both protected and managed forests in the Karkonosze Mts (southern Poland). A total of 574 pieces, i.e., fallen logs, were randomly selected. Fifteen environmental factors, i.e., the properties of the CWD, including the decomposition scale, moisture, the length of a log, climatic factors and the species identity of the trees were selected. In addition, statistical analyses of twenty plant traits, primarily the life-forms, habitat requirements and the types of reproduction of 96 bryophyte species were performed. According to the three-table ordination method (RLQ), 42 significant associations between the plant traits and environmental variables were recorded. The differences in the variations in the plant traits were associated with the host tree (beech Fagus sylvatica vs spruce Picea abies). The species that prefer a more nutrient-rich substratum and more alkaline environment were correlated with beech logs, whereas the species that prefer a higher moisture content were correlated with spruce logs. The plants that were characterised by creeping and erect lateral branches were associated with logs with a higher bark cover at the lower altitudes and were found mostly on beech logs. Dioecious and tuft plants avoided long logs, whereas monoecious plants preferred them. The rare and protected species were confined to the higher altitudes, less bark cover and smaller logs. Three guilds of epixylic bryophytes were distinguished that differed in 12 plant traits. Although their occurrence seemed to be confined to the specific phases of the decomposition of deadwood, these findings need to be tested on a larger dataset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N) deposition data, together with inland water parameters, provide evidence that N load may affect the vegetation of Baltic States. There is much concern about eutrophication of the rivers, although information about physiological parameters of riparian plant species is still poor. The present study is aimed at comparison of leaf N concentration among populations of aquatic plant species of Lithuania, relating N concentration data to the type of land cover (classification system of COoRdinate Information on the Environment, CORINE) in the neighbouring areas, river state and size, intensity of agriculture in 1991-1996, and natural vice versa regulated fragments of the riverbed. The leaf N concentrations of widely spread native and invasive species (5 riparian and 2 water plants) were estimated for 241 sites (collection time 1st ten-day period of August, 2015) of the main river catchments of Lithuania. Only leaf blades were used for analyses and N concentrations were determined by the Kjeldahl method. The biggest (1.7 times) variation (p < 0.05) in leaf N concentration among populations was documented for Lythrum salicaria. According to the mean values (N % of dry mass, DM) of the leaf N concentration, species could be arranged into following order: Lythrum salicaria (3.0) < Stuckenia pectinata (3.1) < Phalaris arundinacea (3.5) < Bidens frondosa (3.8) < Phragmites australis (4.0) < Nuphar lutea (4.1) < Echinocystis lobata (4.2). Significantly higher (p < 0.05) concentrations of leaf N were found for L. salicaria populations growing near the small rivers (3.4% N DM) compared to the large ones (2.8% N DM). Other selected river and its environment parameters in most cases did not have significant effect on leaf N concentrations of aquatic plants of Lithuania. Leaf N concentration of the aquatic species was not influenced by land cover type (2000 and 2006 year data of database) and did not depend on the river size or state, based on the Water Directive guidance (EU, 2000). Among selected species the most nitrophylic was invasive for Lithuania species E. lobata, which is currently spreading along larger size (>1000 km2) rivers. The present levels of N entering riparian ecosystems are causing spread of the macrophyte species consuming relatively high amounts of N, although the main sources of macrophyte N remains to be examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between the size of the particle fractions of the soil substrate and the diversity of the spontaneously developing vegetation was investigated on coal mine spoil heaps in Upper Silesia (Southern Poland). The analyses were based on 2567 research plots of developed spontaneous vegetation and their associated soil substrate samples collected from 112 coal mine spoil heaps. For each research plot the prevailing particle size fraction was determined (stones, gravel, sand, silt), the species composition and abundance was recorded and the species richness (S), Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H′), Simpson (C) and Evenness (E) indices were used to determine species diversity. From a total of 119 research plots (in all particle size fraction categories), the values of 15 physicochemical properties (pH, electrical conductivity, water holding capacity, moisture, carbon content, total N, available P, Mg and exchange cations Ca, Mg, K, Na, fine particles (%), gravel (%), stone (%)) were obtained to asses their impact on the floristic composition of vegetation patches using Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA). Additionally, functional traits of the dominant species of each vegetation patch (life forms, life strategies and socio-ecological groups), were selected to analyse their relation to substrate texture. It was shown that the highest species richness and the highest values for Shannon-Wiener diversity index, as well as Simpson and Evenness indices, were obtained in plots formed on stones. Moreover, the greatest variation in the participation of species representing different habitats, life forms, and life strategies was found on gravelly substrates. Contrary to our expectations, the vegetation diversity (in terms of both species and their functional traits) was not highest in habitats with a high composition of fine size particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Small waterbodies and oxbow lakes play an important role as hotspots of biodiversity and landscape diversity, supplying a range of ecosystem services. However, they are at risk of disappearing. Thus, there is a need for the threats to their existence to be recognised. In this study we aimed to determine whether land uses within small and larger areas around these waterbodies, combined with selected two abiotic factors (pH, conductivity), affect the "characteristic combination of macrophytes", which is the main indicator of status conservation of such waterbodies. We surveyed 113 Polish oxbow lakes within the floodplains of 16 rivers. Based on ordination analysis (NMDS db-RDA) we found significant differences in the conservation status of macrophyte assemblages between waterbodies with arable land close by and those with woody and shrub vegetation; also affecting the conservation status of the aquatic plant assemblages were meadows, forests, and water pH. For larger environs the conservation status of the aquatic plant assemblages was affected by land use types (urban, mines and excavations, meadows, forests) and by water pH. Our findings prove that conservation programs of oxbow lakes, ponds and small waterbodies should be based on protection and preservation of their immediate and larger surroundings, as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The successful establishment of vegetation, soil development and biogeochemical cycling during the restoration process of mine tailings requires a diverse and metabolically active microbial communities. The objective of this study was to test whether there is any link between the functional groups of both the dominant plant species and soil microbial communities on unreclaimed coal mine spoil heaps of different age located in the Silesian Upland (Poland). At each sampling site the dominant plant species were recorded and characterised based on their Raunkiaer's life form, socio-ecological group and their potential to form mycorrhiza. The functional diversity of the plant-associated microbial communities was assessed using the microbial carbon-utilisation guilds generated using the Biolog method. We observed no differences in the microbial functional diversity, but a gradual increase in the plant functional diversity with the age of the heap. Our results indicate that trees, plants with the potential to form ectomycorrhiza, and deciduous plants strongly affected the carbon-utilisation profiles. The mean proportion of microbe guilds in dominant plant patches accounts for 60 % of the variance while the soil physicochemical parameters explained only 30 % of the variance. This suggest that in post-industrial habitats the biotic features of the soil substratum are more important for the vegetation development than the abiotic parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]