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Phytocoenotic conditions of growth and anthropogenic management of natural phytocoenoses have a significant impact on the population characteristics and stocks/reserves of medicinal plant raw material. The article presents the results of the peculiarities of the response of spatial, dimensional, ontogenetic and vitality structures of populations of the official species - Hypericum perforatum L., and establishes a dependence that allows predicting the reserves of medicinal plant material Hyperci herba by the height of individuals. With the aim of forecasting the dynamics of the resource potential of this species, geobotanical descriptions were conducted, and classical population methods were applied: morphometric, ontogenetic and vitality analyses, as well as a number of statistical methods (correlation, factorial, dispersion, and regression analyses). It was established that the population density of H. perforatum averaged from 3 to 12, but sometimes reached 20 to 30 individuals/m2, with the maximum observed under conditions of random mowing. The minimum indicators of the vegetative sphere: height of generative individuals (h, cm), aboveground phytomass (W, g), photosynthetic effort (LWR, %) were noted in populations used as hayfields, pastures, and in agrophytocenosis. The maximum indicators were in populations that were generally or almost unaffected by anthropogenic influences. Research on the dynamics of the main morphological parameters showed that while the maximum and minimum parameters of vegetative structures differed by approximately 2.1 times, generative parameters differed by 4.6 times. Statistically significant differences were observed among H. perforatum populations in terms of the number, mass of generative organs, and the reproductive effort of plants. A statistically significant correlation was found between plant height (h, cm) and the productivity of aboveground dry phytomass, which forms the herbal raw materials (HRM, g). It is described by the Equation: HRM = 0.167h – 3.28. In hayfield-pasture areas and in agrophytocenosis, up to 60–75% of individuals were of small size and low vitality, their contribution to the production of medicinal plant raw material was insignificant. Overall, the conducted research showed that Hypericum perforatum L. exhibited significant phytocenotic diversity, which depended on a complex of ecologo-cenotic factors and types of anthropogenic management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current state of a rare medicinal species, the "green-flowered" hound's tongue (Cynoglossum viridiflorum Pall. ex Lehm.), of Uzbekistan growing in the Karakalpak part of the Ustyurt Plateau, based on the structure of its cenopopulations is examined. New data is reported with respect to the ontogeny and ontogenetic structure of cenotic populations of this rare endemic, and plant communities with its participation are characterized. In the Ustyurt conditions, the vegetation cycle of C. viridiflorum spans approximately eight months from March to October. The studied populations were shown to be normal and full-membered. The left-sided ontogenetic spectrum is characteristic of C. viridiflorum due to the high seed productivity and germination capacity. Altogether, this reflects the biological characteristics of C. viridiflorum and points to a stable state of the species population in the Ustyurt conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytocoenotic conditions of growth and anthropogenic management of natural phytocoenoses have a significant impact on the population characteristics and stocks/reserves of medicinal plant raw material. The article presents the results of the peculiarities of the response of spatial, dimensional, ontogenetic and vitality structures of populations of the official species - Hypericum perforatum L., and establishes a dependence that allows predicting the reserves of medicinal plant material Hyperci herba by the height of individuals. With the aim of forecasting the dynamics of the resource potential of this species, geobotanical descriptions were conducted, and classical population methods were applied: morphometric, ontogenetic and vitality analyses, as well as a number of statistical methods (correlation, factorial, dispersion, and regression analyses). It was established that the population density of H. perforatum averaged from 3 to 12, but sometimes reached 20 to 30 individuals/m2, with the maximum observed under conditions of random mowing. The minimum indicators of the vegetative sphere: height of generative individuals (h, cm), aboveground phytomass (W, g), photosynthetic effort (LWR, %) were noted in populations used as hayfields, pastures, and in agrophytocenosis. The maximum indicators were in populations that were generally or almost unaffected by anthropogenic influences. Research on the dynamics of the main morphological parameters showed that while the maximum and minimum parameters of vegetative structures differed by approximately 2.1 times, generative parameters differed by 4.6 times. Statistically significant differences were observed among H. perforatum populations in terms of the number, mass of generative organs, and the reproductive effort of plants. A statistically significant correlation was found between plant height (h, cm) and the productivity of aboveground dry phytomass, which forms the herbal raw materials (HRM, g). It is described by the equation: HRM = 0.167h - 3.28. In hayfield-pasture areas and in agrophytocenosis, up to 60–75% of individuals were of small size and low vitality, their contribution to the production of medicinal plant raw material was insignificant. Overall, the conducted research showed that Hypericum perforatum L. exhibited significant phytocenotic diversity, which depended on a complex of ecologo-cenotic factors and types of anthropogenic management.

The purpose of this work is to study the features of the life cycle of Sanguisorba officinalis in various types of vegetation in the Republic of Tatarstan, Russia. We used traditional methods for studying the cenopopulation, analysis of the calendar age of plants of various ontogenetic states, and potential and actual seed productivity. Under broad‐leaved forest conditions, a young normal population was formed on the basis of slowly developing plants. In conditions of open communities, young cenopopulations were formed on the basis of intensive seed reproduction processes. The young cenopopulation can be recommended for further study in biomass exploitation. The predominance of long‐lived vegetative and immature plants in the conditions of a broad‐leaved forest is associated with difficulties in the transition of individuals to sexual reproduction. The maintenance of numbers is carried out through vegetative growth and reproduction. With deterioration of ecological and coenotic conditions, above‐ground shoots were not formed but regressive‐quasisenile coenopopulations were formed. Seed productivity was determined by ecological and cenotic conditions. On the steppe meadow of the Bugulma district, the lowest seed productivity index was 9 %. The lowest indicator of the trait “Number of full‐fledged seeds” (the average indicator was 7), low seed germination and germination energy were also noted there. The highest values of these indicators were noted n glades of the broad‐leaved areas of the same region. The realization of the reproductive system of Sanguisorba officinalis even under extreme conditions and the survival of the species in various types of vegetation suggest that the territory of the Republic of Tatarstan is included in the ceno‐area of the species. This will permit the creation of plantations in the republic.

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Copyright of Bulletin of the L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University. Bioscience Series is the property of L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background. Herminium monorchis (L.) R. Br. – rare species of the Orchid family, included in the Red Book of Penza region. Monitoring of the cenopopulation of the species on the Olshansky solonetz is necessary to assess the current state and forecast in order to preserve it. Materials and methods. H. monorchis develops on soils of varying degrees of salinity in the composition of meadows of different types on the Olshanskiy solonetz. In 2013, 2021, 2023 geobotanical descriptions were made, the ontogenetic structure was studied, and the ecological density of the cenopopulation, the Δ and ω indices were determined. Results. The area of the H. monorchis cenopopulation on the Olshanskiy solonetz has not decreased over 10 years of observations. The species is confined to associations of saline and steppe meadows formed by Centaurea jacea, Equisetum arvense, Inula salicina, Senecio schvetzovii, Ononis arvensi, Calamagrostis epigeios, Thalictrum simplex. At low salinity, H. monorchis plays the role of an assector in them. With an increase in the degree of salinity, its participation in the composition of plant communities increases – it becomes a co-dominant and dominant. The ecological density of the cenopopulation is very high, increasing with increasing salt content. Population is normal. Ontogenetic spectra in 2013 are righthanded, with a predominance of generative individuals, in 2023 they are bimodal with a maximum on generative ones on immature plants. Self-maintenance of the population occurs mainly due to vegetative reproduction, which ensures the rejuvenation of individuals to the immature age state, and to a lesser extent by seed (a low proportion of juvenile individuals). A high renewability index indicates the stability of the population due to efficient reproduction. Indices of age and efficiency are typical for maturing and mature populations. Among the generative individuals, plants of reduced and low vitality predominate due to the toxic effect of salts. The life form of a vegetative annual allows the species to increase its competitiveness in saline conditions compared to other meadow grasses. Conclusions. The condition of the H. monorchis cenopopulation at the Olshanskiy solonetz is relatively favorable. Further monitoring of the state of the cenopopulation should be continued in order to timely identify possible adverse changes.

This article presents the results of a study of the state of the cenopopulation of a rare species, Allium praemixtum Vved. in the Nurata and Turkestan ranges. The ontogenetic structure of the cenopopulation was studied by the generally accepted methods (Uranov, 1975; Tsenopopulyatsiya rastenii..., 1976). Cenopopulations were characterized according to the classifications of A.A. Uranov and O.V. Smirnova (1969) and "delta–omega" (Zhivotovsky, 2001). The ecological density was determined by the method of W. Odum (1986). Geobotanical descriptions were made according to the standard methodology on sites of 100 m2 (Field geobotany, 1964). The characteristic ontogenetic spectrum is left-sided, with an absolute maximum in one of the pregenerative groups (Cheremushkina, 2004). Cenopopulations (CP) 1, 5, 6 correspond to the characteristic left-sided ontogenetic spectrum with a maximum peak in the virginal state of the species. The centered ontogenetic spectrum does not coincide with the characteristics, culminating in middle age. The bimodal ontogenetic spectrum is then considered as a temporary left-sided variant with an equal peak in the medium generative and virginal states. The density of individuals in the studied cenopopulations varied from 1.1 to 9.7 ind./m2, and the ecological density is from 2.3 to 17.63 ind./m2. According to the "delta-omega" classification Allium praemixtum cenopopulation CP 1 is maturing, CP 5 and 6 are young, CP 2 and 4 are transitional, and CP 3 is mature. Existing cenopopulations are mainly located on unprotected territory, with the exception of CP 3 (near Mazhrumsay) and 4 (near Gurdarasay). The only solution to this problem can be the strict protection of cenopopulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessment of the modern status of populations of rare plant species by population-ontogenetic methods is used for solving problems of conservation and restoration of natural communities. The object of the study is a rare species of the European Russia, Rindera tetraspis Pall., a poorly studied threatened steppe endemic. The purpose of the research was to assess the modern status and ontogenetic structure of cenopopulations of R. tetraspis in the Urals within Orenburg oblast. Three administrative districts of Orenburg oblast in the Urals were surveyed in 2016–2019, and as a result, six cenopopulations were identified and studied. Their phytocenotic allocation was assessed by conventional geobotanical methods. It has been revealed that wheat grass (Agropyron desertorum), wormwood (Artemisia lercheana)–Psathyrostachys calciphyte, and bluegrass (Poa bulbosa ssp. vivipara)–feather-grass (Stipa capillata) steppe communities predominate. The main population characteristics, the density of plants, and the ontogenetic composition, have been determined. The total density in the surveyed cenopopulations varies from 4.7 to 10.7 plants/m2, and the effective density is from 3.2 to 5.9 plants/m2. The ontogenesis has been described and eight ontogenetic stages have been revealed. Senile plants were not found. All the studied cenopopulations of R. tetraspis are normal incomplete and are dominated by middle-aged generative plants. According to the delta–omega classification, there are three are young, two transitional, and one mature cenopopulations. Their status is relatively satisfactory, but only one of the six is protected: it is located in the specially protected natural area Troitskie Melovye Mountains. Regular monitoring of the status of the populations is necessary for stronger protection of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment of the spatial and functional features of rare species populations without considering the ontogenetic groups, which are being rarely distinguished at international literature, does not give a complete understanding of the current status of populations and prospects of their development under various management conditions. This paper is aimed to determine the status of a threatened orchid species, Cephalanthera rubra, at the eastern border of its range (Republic of Tatarstan, European Russia). For this purpose, a complex of various population parameters was used. Ontogenetic groups of C. rubra individuals have been reliably identified on the basis of morphometric traits of reproductive and vegetative organs. The obtained results showed that the fruit set is low, ranging at average from 24% for young reproductive individuals (g1) to 39% for mid-mature reproductive individuals (g2); it reflects prospects for seed reproduction of this species at the eastern edge of its range. The abundance dynamics of populations has a fluctuation type; it is related to climatic factors of the growing season. So, we found its significant positive correlations with air humidity (from r = 0.6 to r = 0.7) and precipitation (from r = 0.5 to r = 0.6), and a negative correlation with temperature (from r = -0.5 to r = -0.6). In the Republic of Tatarstan, the base spectrum of C. rubra populations is of the centred type, 1:10:51:38 (j:im:v:g); it corresponds to the general ontogenetic spectrum of rhizomatous orchids. The spatial-ontogenetic structure of populations, and especially its dynamics, reflects the intraspecific relationships of various ontogenetic groups involved in maintaining the stability of C. rubra population in space and time. Under optimal conditions, the spatial structure of all individuals and reproductive groups is characterised by a spatial randomness, which probably reduces intraspecific competition. In contrary, pre-reproductive groups form aggregations with 0.5–0.9-m radius in microloci, favourable for seed germination. A characteristic feature of the spatial structure is the formation of aggregations of reproductive and pre-reproductive individuals with a 0.7–1.0-m radius with a 0.2–0.4-m zone of the random spatial positioning of individuals, which aims to reduce intraspecific competition between them. The probability of meeting an individual of another ontogenetic group increases towards the periphery of the formed aggregation. In C. rubra populations, the abundance and density of individuals, and the fruit set decrease in pessimal conditions of landslides, soil erosion, and habitat shading. Under these conditions, pre-reproductive individuals do not form aggregations, nor aggregations with reproductive individuals. In general, the spatial structure of a population depends on the life-form type of the species, the mechanism of spatial growth of underground organs; it is considered a diagnostic sign of the population status.

The study of the ontogenetic structure of the coenotic populations of vulnerable, endemic, and rare plant species makes it possible to assess their state under the conditions of anthropogenic transformation of ecosystems and develop the scientific basis for their protection. Central Asia is one of the centers of origin and species diversity of the genus Tulipa L. In the flora of the Republic of Uzbekistan, there are 34 species of tulips, of which 19 species (55.88%) are endangered due to the collection of flowers and bulbs and overgrazing and habitat destruction. These are listed in the national Red Book. This article is devoted to the assessment of the current state of 13 coenotic populations of five rare and endemic species of the genus Tulipa (T. borszczowii, T. butkovii, T. dubia, T. greigii, T. korolkowii), growing in the Tashkent region of Uzbekistan in areas with different environmental regimes and levels of anthropogenic pressure. It has been established that eight studied cenopopulations are normal and full-membered; five populations are incomplete, they lack senile individuals, which is a biological feature of the genus Tulipa. Six cenopopulations belong to the left-sided type, their ontogenetic spectrum coincides with the characteristic spectrum of the genus Tulipa; four coenopopulations have a centered type of spectrum, while three are bimodal. The low proportion of juveniles in some of the cenopopulations studied is due to the influence of overgrazing, as well as high competition with other species in the community. It is recommended that a rare endemic of the Central Asian deserts be included in the next edition of the Red Book of Uzbekistan Tulipa borszczowii and national endemic, narrow-local endemic of the Chatkal ridge Tulipa butkovii. It is recommended to create a protected area (zakaznik or natural monument) to preserve the relic sandy massif Dalverzinskie sands in the Tashkent region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This paper is devoted to the study of the Lunaria rediviva population at the eastern border of its range (National Park "Smolny", Republic of Mordovia, Russia) in 2013–2018. Ontogenetic structure of the population has been identified by distinguishing juvenile, mature vegetative, and reproductive individuals. We found changes in the ontogenetic structure of the population from 2013 to 2018. The type of its population changed from vegetatively oriented to bimodal, with a decrease in proportion of mature vegetative individuals. We found a significant negative correlation between the fruit set and the moisture in mid-July, and wind strength in late May and early June. It was found that the number of both flowers and fruits per individual is significantly positively correlated with the precipitation in late April, and they are negatively correlated with these parameters and the temperature in late July. We assume that the habitat shading negatively influences the L. rediviva population status. Long-term studies of plant populations provide valuable knowledge on the influence of various environmental factors on plant species. The status of edge-range species populations is especially important to be studied due to their higher vulnerability to extinction. This paper aimed to study the Lunaria rediviva population at the eastern border of its range (National Park "Smolny", Republic of Mordovia, Russia). The study was carried out in 2013–2018. Assessment of the L. rediviva population was performed on the basis of individual parameters of plants (height of the individual, number of leaves per individual, number of inflorescences, flowers, fruits per one generative individual, and the fruit set), and density of individuals. Ontogenetic structure of the population was identified by distinguishing juvenile, mature vegetative, and reproductive individuals. The relationships between weather conditions (mean values of temperature, air moisture, wind strength, precipitation divided to three decades per month) and population parameters of L. rediviva were identified. Results showed changes in the ontogenetic structure of the population. The type of its population changed from vegetatively oriented to bimodal, with a decrease (R2 = 0.686) in the proportion of mature vegetative individuals. We demonstrated a significant decline in some parameters of the L. rediviva reproduction. We found a significant negative correlation between the fruit set and the moisture at mid-July (r = −0.84, p < 0.05), and wind strength in late May (r = −0.83, p < 0.05) and early June (r = −0.83, p < 0.05). It was found that the number of both flowers and fruits per individual is significantly positively correlated with the precipitation in late April, and they negatively correlated with these parameters and the temperature in late July. We assume that the habitat shading negatively influences the L. rediviva population status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental monitoring, protection of rare plant species, research to assess the status of populations of rare and endangered plants by coenopopulation approaches, and preservation of plant communities with their participation are priority tasks. The aim of this work was to study the ecological and phytocoenotic parameters of coenotic populations of rare species of the Ustyurt Plateau: Xylosalsola chiwensis and Scorzonera bungei listed in the Red Data Book of Uzbekistan (2019). Plant communities with the participation of coenopopulations of the studied species are characterized. The ontogenetic structure of these species has been studied. The results show that coenopopulations under the ecological and coenotic conditions of Ustyurt are normal and incomplete. The basic ontogenetic spectrum is centered with a peak of middle-aged generative plants. The spectra of particular coenopopulations are centered and left-sided, which is related to ecological conditions of habitats and fluctuations in weather conditions. The protection of these species should be continued during the development of free-range animal husbandry and the planning of linear infrastructures. The results we obtained will be used in subsequent editions of the Red Data Book of the Republic of Uzbekistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the results of studying the ontogenetic and vitality structure of 13 cenopopulations of Globularia bisnagarica from the Middle and Lower Volga region. The assessment of the ontogenetic structure was carried out by constructing and analyzing the ontogenetic spectra of each of the studied cenopopulations, as well as the basic ontogenetic spectrum, followed by determining the type of cenopopulations according to the “delta-omega” criterion. On the basis of morphometric parameters, the vitality indices of individuals and cenopopulations were determined, followed by the identifi cation of vitality types and the calculation of the dimensional plasticity index. It has been established that the ontogenetic spectra of the majority of cenopopulations are complete, asymmetric, with peaks in several age groups. The basic ontogenetic spectrum is bimodal, asymmetrical, with a maximum on virginal and mature generative individuals. The majority of G. bisnagarica cenopopulations are young, being dominated by individuals of the pregenerative state. The Srg cenopopulation growing on the territory of the Samara region consisted mainly of individuals of the post-generative state. Four cenopopulations (Pch, Grm, Lhv, Bkm) turned out to be transitional, since they are dominated by generative individuals. According to the assessment of the vitality state, individuals of the middle class of vitality predominated in all the studied cenopopulations. At the same time, most of the studied cenopopulations are defi ned as prosperous. Likewise, only two cenopopulations: Grm and Lhv from the Ulyanovsk region were characterized as depressed. Thus, taking into account the features above, the general condition of the three cenopopulations: Srg, Grm and Lhv is assessed as unsatisfactory, which makes them the most vulnerable in the event of the impact of adverse environmental factors or an increase in anthropogenic pressure on their habitats.

Currently, the genetic resources of plants are on the verge of gradual disappearance, called genetic erosion. The erosion of genetic diversity implies the loss of diverse genes in individual plant species. Therefore, special attention should be paid to the collection and conservation of genetic resources of endangered plants for future use. The aim of this study is to research the natural coenopopulation of the ancestral species of cultivated plant, Allium oschaninii in the mountains of Uzbekistan. Field studies were conducted in nine coenopopulations in the Turkestan, Gissar, and Alai ranges. For each coenopopulation, a phytocoenotic characteristic given on the sites of 100 m2. When determining the structure of A. oschaninii and the characteristics of the coenopopulation, transects from 10 to 30 sites of 1 m2 were established. The condition of the coenopopulation was assessed by the age structure of A. oschaninii and using a demographic indicator. We found that the condition of the coenopopulation is normal, but incomplete. The condition of the coenopopulations 1, 8, 9 is under threat due to anthropogenic load (overgrazing) and unfavorable factors of the ecotype. The ontogenetic spectrum is centered with a peak on average generative individuals and does not coincide with the characteristic one. Coenopopulations with a left-sided type, with a predominance of juvenile individuals, are formed on stony-gravelly, fine-grained gravel, and soft-soil mountain plains. By biological nature, the ontogenetic spectrum of A. oschaninii is left- sided, with an absolute maximum on one of the pregenerative groups. According to the demographic indicators, in diverse communities and in low-mountain and medium-category habitats and in a static substrate with grazing, the coenopopulation is young, mature, and in a transitional state.

Population ontogenetic studies are an important component of bioecological monitoring. The ontogenetic structure plays a role in determining the current state of natural populations, assessing the rarity status of a species in the region and throughout its range, and predicting the further development of the species. In the Samara region, natural cenopopulations of Anemonoides altaica (C.A. Mey.) Holub were studied on the territory of the Trans-Volga region (Sokol'ya mountains). According to the delta - omega criterion, most of them are mature, some are transitional and young. The revealed features of the ontogenetic structure and the calculated demographic indices of populations indicate the undoubted rarity and vulnerable position of the species in the region.

The problem of preserving the biological diversity of the Earth is attracting increasing attention of the world scientific community. Rare plant species, as the most vulnerable part of the flora, are under the greatest threat of extinction. In the study of this group of plants, population methods are increasingly being used. Revealing the number, structure, efficiency of self-renewal and resistance of populations of rare plants in relation to anthropogenic influences creates the basis for developing effective measures for their protection. The aim of the study was to assess the current state of coenopopulations of some rare endemic species – Acantholimon nuratavicum Zakirov ex Lincz. (Plumbaginaceae), Cousinia pseudolanata Popov ex Tscherneva (Asteraceae), Lepidolopha nuratavica Krasch. (Asteraceae) included in the Red Book of Uzbekistan. The results showed that in the ecological–coenotic conditions of the Navoi region, the studied coenopopulations are normal and incomplete. Ontogenetic spectra of coenopopulations are centred and left sided, with a peak for middle-aged and young generative individuals, which is associated with the ecological conditions of habitation and anthropogenic pressure.

Long-term studies of plant populations provide valuable knowledge on the influence of various environmental factors on plant species. The status of edge-range species populations is especially important to be studied due to their higher vulnerability to extinction. This paper aimed to study the Lunaria rediviva population at the eastern border of its range (National Park “Smolny”, Republic of Mordovia, Russia). The study was carried out in 2013–2018. Assessment of the L. rediviva population was performed on the basis of individual parameters of plants (height of the individual, number of leaves per individual, number of inflorescences, flowers, fruits per one generative individual, and the fruit set), and density of individuals. Ontogenetic structure of the population was identified by distinguishing juvenile, mature vegetative, and reproductive individuals. The relationships between weather conditions (mean values of temperature, air moisture, wind strength, precipitation divided to three decades per month) and population parameters of L. rediviva were identified. Results showed changes in the ontogenetic structure of the population. The type of its population changed from vegetatively oriented to bimodal, with a decrease (R2 = 0.686) in the proportion of mature vegetative individuals. We demonstrated a significant decline in some parameters of the L. rediviva reproduction. We found a significant negative correlation between the fruit set and the moisture at mid-July (r = −0.84, p < 0.05), and wind strength in late May (r = −0.83, p < 0.05) and early June (r = −0.83, p < 0.05). It was found that the number of both flowers and fruits per individual is significantly positively correlated with the precipitation in late April, and they negatively correlated with these parameters and the temperature in late July. We assume that the habitat shading negatively influences the L. rediviva population status.

Astragalus holargyreus Bunge is a narrow-local endemic of Kyzyl Kum. It grows in the outlier mountains of Bukantau. It has status 1 in the Red Book of the Republic of Uzbekistan (2019). The purpose of the article is to assess the current state of local populations. When describing ontogenesis, we used the method of Rabotnov (1950), Uranov (1975), and Local Plant Populations (1976). The structure of local populations was studied with the generally accepted method (Uranov, 1975; Tsenopopulyatsiya rastenii..., 1976). Local populations were characterized according to the classification of ontogenetic structure proposed by Uranov and Smirnov (1969); age and effectiveness were characterized according to L.A. Zhivotovsky (2001). The ecological density was determined according to W. Odum (1986). Relevés were carried out according to the standard technique on 100-m2 areas (Polevaya geobotanika, 1964). Astragalus holargyreus is a monocentric, vegetatively nonmotile, tap-root, herbaceous polycarpic with sympodially renewing, monocyclic shoots. The ontogenetic spectrum of the first local population is typical and reflects the biological characteristics of the species: a gradual increase in the life span in the pregenerative and generative periods, which culminates in the middle-aged state, and rapid aging with an absolute maximum in individuals of a middle-aged generative state. The proportion of individuals with an absolute maximum occurs in individuals of the middle-aged generative state (29.06%). The ontogenetic spectrum in the second local population does not coincide with the characteristic one, which is unimodal with an absolute maximum for virginal individuals (23.40%). The average density of individuals is 0.86 pcs. per 1 m2 in local population 1 and 1.17 pcs./m2 in CP2. The ecological density ranges from 1.28 to 2.76. According to the sum of the points of organism and population characteristics, all surveyed local populations are in a stable state. It is recommended that the habitats of the species(Bukantau ridge) should be introduced into the system of protected natural areas of the republic in order to preserve the natural population of Astragalus holargyreus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term conservation schemes usually concern the rarest species, extremely threatened. Investigating Red Data Book species is inescapable for determining their threatened category and optimal measures for the protection. Orchidaceae is the most attractive plant family among all plant families of the world. Due to decorative, medicinal, food features of orchid species, their populations are declining. Seventeen threatened orchid species are included in the Red Data Book of the Republic of Azerbaijan. One of them is Platanthera chlorantha. The ontogenetic and morphometric structure of P. chlorantha populations was previously studied fragmentarily. However, the vitality structure, and the environment influence on its populations have not been studied in Azerbaijan yet. The aim of the present paper was to study its ontogenetic, demographic and vitality structure in order to elucidate the influence of climatic and edaphic factors on morphometric variability. The field investigations were carried out in 2016–2019 in Khizi, Siyazan, Guba, Gusar, Shamakhi, Ismayilli and Gakh districts of the Greater Caucasus using both population-based and geobotanical methods. A morphometric analysis was performed on 30 randomly selected generative individuals in the nine studied populations. Relationships between distribution of some orchid species, their environmental preferences and environmental variables were analysed using canonical correspondence analysis (CCA). The phenology of P. chlorantha has been studied. We revealed that a temperate, warm, humid climate and mountain-brownish soil type are most favourable for P. chlorantha.

The article assesses the state of the ontogenetic structure of the rare species Crambe edentula Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ex Korsh., which grows in the Karakalpak part of Ustyurt. The study showed that in the ecological-cenotic conditions of Ustyurt, the studied local populations are normal and mostly incomplete. The characteristic ontogenetic spectrum for C. еdentula is centered due to an increase in the life span of individuals in a mature generative state and poor seed renewal. The ontogenetic spectra of local populations do not coincide with the characteristic spectra. The spectra of specific local populations are left-sided and right-sided, which is associated with the environmental conditions of habitation and fluctuations in weather conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

30 populations of six Delphinium L. taxa (D. pubiflorum, D. litwinowii, D. duhm-bergii, D. subcuneatum, D. sergii, and D. puniceum) were studied in the Ulyanovsk, Saratov, Samara, Volgograd, Astrakhan, Voronezh, Rostov, Penza and Tambov regions as well as in the Republics of Kalmykia and Mordovia in order to reveal features of their ontogenetic and vitality structures. Throughout the years of observation, the vitality of the populations of all studied species varied considerably; individuals of medium or low vitality predominated in most populations. Also, the index of vitality of coenopopulation (IVC) varied in the populations of the same species. In over 50% of the populations, IVC was below 1. The indices of size plasticity of the species were rather low. The ratio of ontogenetic groups also varied substantially both among the species and among the populations of the same species. However, in most populations, generative individuals predominated; less often pre-generative or post-generative ones prevailed. According to the delta-omega criterion, most populations were mature with the only exception of D. puniceum populations being maturing at the time of observation. According to the recovery index, only few populations were capable of natural self-sustenance. Based on the results of our monitoring, it was concluded that both the number and size of taxa populations across the studied area have been dramatically decreasing in recent decades; all of them are in critical condition. This requires rigorous measures to preserve and restore the population of Delphinium species in the studied area. Without additional measures, most of the populations are doomed and can be eliminated in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our research was carried out in the ridges of the Western Tien Shan (Uzbekistan). The study analyzed the age structure of 9 local populations (LP) of Tulipa greigii Regel. The ontogenetic structure of T. greigii local populations is represented by two types of spectrum – left-sided (LP 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9) and centered (LP 3, 7). The studied local populations of T. greigii are normal, incomplete. It is noted that the studied local populations are young and mature. The scientific justification of the ways of ecological improvement of coenopopulation. In the implementation of scientific work, the methods of traditional geobotanical and cartographic remote study of plant formations were applied.

The article assesses the state of the ontogenetic structure of some rare species (Rosa laxa Retz., Crataegus korolkowii L. Henry, Artemisia terrae-albae Krasch. and Salsola arbusculiformis Drob.) growing on the Karakalpak part of Ustyurt. The study shows that the studied cenopopulations are normal and mostly incomplete under the ecological and cenotic conditions of Ustyurt. The ontogenetic spectra of specific cenopopulations are left-sided and centered, which associated with the environmental living conditions and fluctuations in weather conditions. The similarity of biological features (long-term life expectancy of individuals in a middle-age ontogenetic state, the least elimination, and difficult seed germination) in individuals of different species and the actual, ontogenetic spectra with a characteristic spectrum indicates a stable state of the studied cenopopulations on the Karakalpak part of Ustyurt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract—The results of studies conducted in Romanovskii district of Saratov region during the period of mass flowering of Orchis militaris L. and Dactylorhiza incarnate (L.) Soo (June 2–16, 2017) are presented. Descriptions of the habitats of the species (a hollow and a pasture), differing in the projective cover and dominants, are given. Elytrigia repens (L.) Nevski, Carex vulpina L., and Potentilla anserina L. dominated in the hollow; Elytrigia repens (L.) Nevski, Festuca pratensis Huds., and Festuca valesiaca Gaudin dominated in the pasture. The ontogenetic structure of populations of these species is shown. In the hollow, juvenile individuals of O. militaris were absent, while immature (23.1%), verginyl (34.0%), and generative individuals (42.9%) were found. In the pasture, juvenile and immature individuals of O. militaris accounted for 6.8 and 9.3%, respectively, and verginyl (36.8%) and generative individuals (47.1%) prevailed. The age spectra of both populations are of the right-sided type. In the age spectrum of the D. incarnata cenopopulation, the proportion of age groups of the pregenerative and generative periods was 52.9%. The high recovery and efficiency indices indicate a steady status of cenopopulations of O. militaris and D. incarnate. Annual monitoring is necessary for assessing the status of the cenopopulations and forecasting their development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analysis of populations of Asarum europaeum L. in forest ecosystems of the North East of Ukraine during the growing periods of 2004–2015 was carried out. In carrying out field research we used standard methods of ecology, geobotany such as study plots of 400 m2, and for detailed elaboration of the surface layer we used study plots of 100 m2. According to the results of the examination of plots of the size 50 x 50 cm, we obtained data on the number and density of individuals within populations. We found that populations of this species often dominate in the lower tiers of broadleaf and mixed forests in the region under research. We identified the basic population characteristics of the species and described its growth and development in three subformations: Querceta roboris, Pineta sylvestris, Acereto (platanoiditis) – Querceta (roboris). It was found that according to the time gradient, depending on meteorological conditions, the projective cover and the average population density of the plants vary. Based on the average growth rate of the plants, the balance of morphogenesis in the course of the plants’ ontogenesis was determined. We found that the best conditions for the growth and development of A. europaeum are provided in the North East of Ukraine in the subformation of Querceta roboris. The results of the analysis of ontogenetic state of partial bushes in populations of A. europaeum are described. It was found that populations in the subformation Querceta roboris and Pineta sylvestris were full-membered, while in the subformation Acereto (platanoiditis) – Querceta (roboris) they were not fully-membered with fallout of seedlings and juvenile plants. It was found that the population of A. europaeum in the Pineta sylvestris subformation, is left sided, with the peak number in pregenerative partial bushes – this was the youngest population with the highest Index innovation value and the lowest Index senilis value. The Index senilis of the youngest population is 0.14 while the Index generative is 45.0%. The population of A. europaeum in the subformation of Querceta roboris was more mature: Index senilis is equal to 0.19, the age range of the left-hand side with the peak on the partial bushes g1, Index generative reaches 55.4%. In the population with the subformation Acereto (platanoiditis) – Querceta (roboris) Index senilis is significantly greater than one and equals 2.35. In the oldest population, the age spectrum is centered with the peak on generative partial bushes, the Index generative is high and equals 68.5%. This vital analysis of the population structure is based on a sample of more than 3,000 partial shrubs. The key signs of vitality were: total phytomass (W), leaf surface (A) and reproductive effort (RE1). It has been established that two of the three studied populations of A. europaeum are in equilibrium (from the subformations of Pineta sylvestris and Acereto (platanoiditis) – Querceta (roboris) and one is flourishing.

The criterion for steady state species in the community is the possibility of a complete turnover generation. Ontogenetic structure of Fragaria vesca and Trientalis europaea cenopopulations in phytocenoses of different seral stages of forest community depended on the ecological-coenotic conditions. Cenopopulations of species with a high frequency of individuals of generative period were formed on disturbed forest communities, however, Frsagaria vesca and Trientalis europaea seedlings in disturbed forest areas were not present. For these species, regeneration niches or microbioloby were the optimal conditions for seed germination and successful completion of the initial stages of ontogenesis, dedicated to the cenopopulations of phytocenoses climax serial stages. In holistic forest communities, species showed strategy type of patients. This allowed the species to be kept on a previously developed site. Invasive-regressive ontogenetic structure of Frsagaria vesca and Trientalis europaea cenopopulations was formed in climax stages of forest communities. However, this type of ontogenetically structure of cenopopulations reflected the survival of seedlings of species in the community, but did not represent, the tenuous state of the population. The stages of the life cycle of Fragaria vesca and Trientalis europaea were confined to different cenopopulations, where they developed the necessary conditions for the flow of the hotel stages of ontogenesis. A set of populations, within which is carried out the full turnover of the generation of Frsagaria vesca and Trientalis europaea, formed a correct idea about the status of the species in the community. In terms of a mosaic of phytocenosis cenopopulation of Platanthera bifolia was presented cenopopulations loci. The development of plants within loci differed. A variety of factors in heterogeneous pine forest determined by the separation in space of the processes of formation of seeds and survival of seedlings. This ensured the passage of the life cycle within one cenopopulations and sustainable status of the species.

Background. The study of species coenopopulations and their stability in a particular area is a necessary stage when searching for ways of rational use of natural resources. The species of the genus Thymus in the southern Siberia is widely distributed. This species is found in the communities of mountain and lowland steppes, forest steppes and forests. The objective of this work is to explore the ontogenetic structure of Thymus coenopopulations in the southern Siberia and estimate the current state of this species. Materials and methods. Using the conventional methods particular features of life forms have been studied and biomorphs of 15 species of thyme have been selected; 22 coenopopulations of 10 species, which are distinguished by biomorph and the extent of distribution, have been investigated. Results. This research has shown that in the southern Siberia the species of the genus Thymus is formed in six life forms (vegetative-immotile form for the shrub and semi-shrub, vegetative-semi-motile form for the shrub and semi- shrub, vegetative-motile form for the shrub and semi- shrub) and three types of biomorphs (monocentric vegetative-immotile biomorph, implicitly polycentric vegetative-semi-motile biomorph, explicitly polycentric vegetative-motile biomorph). A relation between biological features of the species and the type of characteristic ontogenetic spectrum has been shown. Biological specific features of implicitly and explicitly polycentric species identify the left-sided type of the characteristic spectrum, of monocentric species, the type of spectrum is determined as centered one. The difference between the majority of ontogenetic spectra of specific coenopopulations from the typical spectrum is due to polyvariety of species development (alteration of the biomorph in the same species, a change in the prevailing propagation direction, reduction in the duration (or absence) of the generative period) and characteristics of the arranged ecotope system. Conclusions. For the thymes of different biomorphs the factors of habitats and specific features which influence the stable state of their coenopopulation are identified. It has been ascertained that Thymus coenopopulations in the southern Siberia are in a stable state or tend to be in this state. A comparative analysis of the data obtained made it possible to put forward some patterns of population behavior of thymes which can be extrapolated into another species of the genus Thymus with similar types of biomorphs.

The paper is devoted to an assessment of the current state of the coenotic populations of Astragalus centralis, the rarest endemic of the Kyzylkum. It is established that the studied coenopopulations of A. centralis are normal and incomplete. The cenopopulation is young in the herbage-carboxylon-wormwood and lactuca-wormwood communities and transitional in the petrophytic plant group. By the sum of the scores of the organism and population characteristics, all of the examined cenopopulations are in a pessimal condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

the results are presented for the study of four rare species in the Troicki chalk mountains: Anthemis trotzkiana Claus., Matthiola fragrans Bunge, Lepidium meyeri Claus, and Zygophyllum pinnatum Cham. The total density of the studied coenopopulations ranged from 2.2 to 6.1 copies/m, and the effective density was 1.5-4.2 copies/m. Coenopopulations are normally incomplete, most typically lacking the spectrum of seedlings, juvenile and senile individuals, and generative individuals that peak in middle-age. Coenopopulations Anthemis trotzkiana lack postsenile individuals. By the 'delta-omega' classification, coenopopulations Anthemis trotzkiana, Matthiola fragrans are growing old, Lepidium meyeri are transitional, and Zygophyllum pinnatum are mature. The indices of recovery and senescence are 0.03-0.36 and 0.03-0.72, respectively. High levels of variability and plasticity of morphometric characters have been registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the results of an analysis of ontogenetic and vitality structure of seven cenopopulations of Oxytropis sulphurea (Fisch. ex DC.) Ledeb. in the high-altitude conditions of Rydny Altai (Ivanovsky and Prohodnoi ridges) and the Saur Ridge. In the study of the demographic structure it has been determined that most populations from undisturbed habitats are characterized by left-side spectrums with maximums on juvenile or immature individuals. The changes in the structure of the studied ontogenetic spectrums of this species depend largely on the presence of anthropogenic influence. Grazing pressure has led to the formation of spectrums with a maximum on g plants. The vitality type of the O. sulphurea populations varies from exuberant to depressed; the depressed and balanced types of vitality prevailed. Intensive seed propagation provides a stable existence of O. sulphurea in the high-mountain alpine zone. The results of our study show that O. sulphurea is an alpine-meadow species which has strict ecological and cenotic propensity for alpine meadows with the prevalence of Festuca kryloviana, Anthoxanthum alpinum, and Schulzia crinite and shrub tundras with Dryas oxyodonta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduced species can establish self-replacing populations in introduction sites despite climatic differences between these sites and the native range.Schizolobium parahyba(Fabaceae) is a fast-growing tree from the Atlantic Forest in Brazil and is invasive in semideciduous forests. We studied the allometry and population structure ofS. parahybawithin its native and invaded ranges. We expected to find differences in allometric relationships and ontogenetic stage sizes between forest types. We measured individuals within native and invaded ranges and analysed height : diameter allometry using standardised major axis regression. We used the chi-squared test and permutational multivariate analysis of variance to compare the frequencies of individuals of each ontogenetic stage between native and invasive populations. We found that allometry differed between forest types for seedlings, but only marginally for adults. The population structure differed between ranges and suggests active recruitment of juvenile and subadult plants in invaded sites, where the species is naturalising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ontogenetic structure of eight Thymus mongolicus coenopopulations in southern Siberia has been studied and an assessment of their state is made. It is established that the studied coenopopulations had left-hand, central, and bimodal spectrum types. It is shown that the optimal state of coenopopulations is achieved in true petrophytic steppes. The organism optimum and population optimum do not coincide in the steppes on a moving substrate or under the influence of grazing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data are presented on the abundance, structure, and dynamics of hemipopulations of G. conopsea protocorms and autotrophic individuals at the northern boundary of the species range. The dynamics of ontogenetic structure of G. conopsea cenopopulations have a fluctuating pattern. Their response to adverse weather conditions is manifested in short-term reduction of density and increase in cenopopulation ageness in subsequent years. Deterioration of growing conditions in a series of ecotopes is accompanied by an increase in the proportion of young individuals, which allows the species to level off the impact of adverse weather factors on population size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors present the results of studies on the state of cenopopulations (demographic parameters, ontogenetic structure, ageness, self-maintenance capacity, and vitality structure) of the bulbiferous perennial Lilium monadelphum Bieb. and on the ontogenetic strategy of this rare species under stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]