engleski

Coenological research on Ćićarija grasslands: change in floristic composition under different management regimes

The research aims were to determine coenological composition of grassland communities, and to assess the effects of different management on grassland floristic composition. To achieve these aims, 103 phytosociological relevés were carried out ; for each of them field data (altitude, aspect, slope, landform) and information on grassland management (mowing / grazing) and continuity of use (regularly used / not regularly used) were collected. Multivariate analysis of phytosociological relevés led to the identification of four vegetation types: Danthonio-Scorzoneretum villosae association, Carici humilis-Centaureetum rupestris association and its Brachypodium rupestre variant (Scorzoneretalia villosae order, Festuco-Brometea class), and Anthoxantho-Brometum erecti association (Arrhenatheretalia order, Molinio- Arrhenatheretea class). The variability of floristic data set was better explained by environmental parameters than by management and continuity. The management system adopted appears in turn to be conditioned by the soil moisture/productivity gradient. The occurrence of the invasive species Brachypodium rupestre in Ćićarija unmanaged grassland communities could be explained because of the low intensity use of grassland (undergrazing and non-periodic mowing). Despite the fact that these grasslands are used extensively, they provide fodder of good quality. In its floristic composition there is a large spread of the protein-rich species from the Fabaceae family (Anthyllis vulneraria, Hippocrepis comosa, Lotus corniculatus ssp. hirsutus) and Asteraceae family (Scorzonera villosa). Although the relatively low productivity of grasslands, their wide distribution and good nutrition value makes it an interesting fodder for ecological production of sheep's milk and meat. We can conclude consequently the understanding of plant community coenological and functional composition can contribute to optimizing grassland management plans.

vegetation ; grasland ; Scorzonero-Chrysopogonetalia ; Cicarija ; Croatia

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