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SUMMARY In the research work for Master degree the variance of morphological-physiological characteristics of the needles of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) growing in the vicinity of local pollution sources of Lithuania were investigated. Subject of research: Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) growing near the largest industrial pollution sources in Lithuania: a cement factory, a nitrogen fertilizer factory and an oil refinery. Goals of the research: to estimate morphological and physiological features of the needles sampled from the pines growing at different distances from the largest industrial pollution sources. Methodology: the needle morphological features were determined by evaluating needle fluctuating length asymmetry and needle fluctuating mass asymmetry. The needle surface quality was evaluated by measuring contact angles of the water droplets and following the dynamics of water loss from excised needles. Research results: Significant differences were documented between the pine stands located at different distances from the cement factory. The needle asymmetry and surface data of the pine stand near the cement factory showed that the cement dust had a negative effect on the needle development and structure. The pine stand growing in the vicinity of the cement factory was characterised by increased needle asymmetry, faster water loss from the excised needles and increased surface wettability. No morphological and physiological changes as caused by air... [to full text]