Latest Articles from Silva Balcanica Latest 12 Articles from Silva Balcanica https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/ Thu, 28 Mar 2024 18:59:11 +0200 Pensoft FeedCreator https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/i/logo.jpg Latest Articles from Silva Balcanica https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/ Integrated mapping of ecosystems and assessment of forest ecosystem services at river basin scale https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/article/115856/ Silva Balcanica 24(3): 43-60

DOI: 10.3897/silvabalcanica.24.e115856

Authors: Stoyan Nedkov, Ivaylo Ananiev, Hristina Prodanova, Vanya Stoycheva

Abstract: Ecosystems provide various goods and services to society and their valuation is among the main objectives of the concept of ecosystem services (ES). The mapping of ecosystems is the main building block of the whole process of the Mapping and Assessment of Ecosystems and their Services (MAES). The analyses of the ecosystem data produced during the implementation of the national methodology for mapping ecosystems in Bulgaria (MAES BG) reveal some problems that may cause confusion in cases of integrated assessment of all ecosystem types. In this paper, we present an approach that enables formulation of a uniform spatial dataset based on the mapping of the main ecosystem types, that can be used for mapping of ES at a river basin scale. It has been applied to the upper part of the Ogosta River basin and the result is a topologically correct uniform spatial data layer. The approach gives one possible solution to problems related to the different sources of information and the discrepancies between ecosystem types in the national mapping of ecosystems in Bulgaria. It is based on the use of a uniform spatial framework that outlines the ecosystem types and sets the initial database for further mapping. This ensures a topologically correct spatial dataset for the ecosystems and a background for further updates for each ecosystem at the different levels of MAES typology. The most appropriate spatial basis for the territory of Bulgaria is the database for the physical blocks of the Ministry of Interior. Its application to the studied river basin gives encouraging results and can be used as an example for similar areas. Further development of the approach will ensure the mapping of the forest ecosystems at level 3 of the MAES BG typology and more precise delineation of the grassland, heathland, freshwater, and sparsely vegetated ecosystems.

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Research Article Thu, 28 Dec 2023 15:00:05 +0200
Soil erosion rates based on anatomical changes in exposed roots - case study from southwest Bulgaria https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/article/116223/ Silva Balcanica 24(3): 27-33

DOI: 10.3897/silvabalcanica.24.e116223

Authors: Eli Pavlova-Traykova, Dimitar Dimitrov

Abstract: In recent years different methods for soil erosion assessment have been used. Because of its high accuracy in estimations, dendrogeomorphology was selected as one suitable and reliable scientific method to achieve the main goals of this study. The main goal of the study is to date denudation events using anatomical responses of the tree-rings of the roots. We analyze the histological changes that occur in the roots of two tree species, along the river banks of the Sedelska River, which is a tributary of Struma River.The significant differences between homogenous groups of measurements in pre-exposed and exposed roots was established, and it shows a remarkable response of roots to sheet erosion.

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Research Article Thu, 28 Dec 2023 15:00:03 +0200
Assessment and cultural ecosystem service mapping in mountain protected areas – “Pirin” National park https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/article/106658/ Silva Balcanica 24(2): 45-57

DOI: 10.3897/silvabalcanica.24.e106658

Authors: Maria Glushkova, Miglena Zhiyanski, Rositsa Yaneva

Abstract: The assessment and mapping of ecosystems and their services is considered an important action that effectively contributes to proper understanding of how ecosystems support human well-being, and furthermore – to promote the sustainable use of natural resources. The diversity of cultural landscapes, especially in mountain areas, is a significant prerequisite for a variety of cultural ecosystem services that are valuable for the society. This evaluation is the basis for environmental management practices and policymaking. The study presents an approach for assessment and mapping of cultural ecosystem service (CES) “Cultural heritage” that is recognised as important and is provided by mountain protected areas (PAs) in “Pirin” National Park. The data from the Management Plan of “Pirin” NP were used for characterization and biophysical assessment of the condition of forest ecosystems and their potential to provide CESs. The analysis of the results revealed that the conservation regime allowed the territories to preserve a high degree of naturalness and a very good ecological condition as 94.80% of forest ecosystems are assessed with score 4 –“good” condition and 0.44% are with “very good” condition – score 5. The majority of forest ecosystems with “very good” ecological condition are Pinus peuce forests, located mainly on the territory of the reserves “Bayuvi Dupki- Dzhindzhiritsa” and “Yulen”, proving the importance of the protective regime of the territories. Forest ecosystems with average and high capacity to provide ES "Cultural heritage" prevailed, which is consistent with well-preserved and unique nature, the diversity of landscapes, and species richness. Considerable areas were assessed with score 5 – very high capacity, mostly on the territory of the reserves “Bayuvi Dupki- Dzhindzhiritsa” and “Yulen”, and at the foothill of the huts.

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Research Article Tue, 29 Aug 2023 08:36:00 +0300
Using the EPM method for the estimation of soil erosion in forest territories in the upper part of Dzherman River https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/article/96504/ Silva Balcanica 23(2): 19-25

DOI: 10.3897/silvabalcanica.22.e96504

Authors: Eli Pavlova-Traykova

Abstract: One of the most vulnerable to soil erosion parts in Bulgaria is the Struma river watershed. In the past, a lot of erosion control activities have been carried out in this catchment, but the topographic condition and easily prone to soil erosion soils are still redounding to erosion processes. As a global problem with severe effects on the environment, soil erosion is on the agenda of scientific community. Because of difficult recognition on time, various methods for erosion risk and sediment loss assessment were applied. For mountainous watersheds one of the most appropriate approach is Erosion Potential Model (EPM). The study aims to evaluate soil erosion and investigate its spatial distribution by applying EPM, also known as Gavrilovic method. The object of investigation is the upper part of the Dzherman river, which is tributary of Struma river. The method was implemented only for forest territories to determine the most vulnerable part of the forest. The results showed that for the forest territories the average value of the coefficient Z is 0.19, which defines erosion as “low” and the average soil loss only for forest areas is 15.28 m3/km2/year. Nevertheless there are territories with more than 100 m3/km2/year.

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Research Article Tue, 20 Dec 2022 17:12:00 +0200
Spassimir Tonkov (2021): The Postglacial Vegetation History in Southwestern Bulgaria. A Paleoecological Approach https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/article/80737/ Silva Balcanica 22(3): 79-79

DOI: 10.3897/silvabalcanica.22.e80737

Authors: Spassimir Tonkov

Abstract: Book Review

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Book Review Fri, 31 Dec 2021 12:25:00 +0200
Biological control of gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) by the entomopathogenic fungus Entomophaga maimaiga in Bulgaria in 2021 https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/article/78600/ Silva Balcanica 22(3): 17-27

DOI: 10.3897/silvabalcanica.22.e78600

Authors: Georgi Georgiev, Plamen Mirchev, Margarita Georgieva, Mihail Kechev, Sevdalin Belilov, Maria Matova, Vyara Petrova, Petya Mateva, Maria Kirilova, Ilian Mutafchiiski

Abstract: In 2021, biological control programme against gipsy moth (Lymantria dispar) populations was carried out by introduction of the entomopathogenic fungus Entomophaga maimaiga on the territory of four State Forest Enterprises: Municipal Enterprise (ME) ‘Management of Municipal Forests, Agriculture and Forestry’, Nessebar; State Game Enterprises (SGE) Nessebar and Balchik; State Forestry (SF) Vidin. The pathogen was introduced during the period 15-26.03.2021 in 34 localities - five in ME Nessebar, eight in SGE Nessebar, ten in SGE Balchik and eleven in SF Vidin. The average number of gypsy moth population density in the locations of introduction was relatively high, ranging between 0.4-15.9 egg mass/tree in the area of ​​SGE Balchik and 11.9-65.0 egg mass/tree in the area of ​​ME Nessebar. The average mortality of young gypsy moth caterpillars (first-third instar) due to E. maimaiga varied between 2.6% (SGE Balchik) and 13.0% (SF Vidin), and of caterpillars in later fourth-sixth instar - between 20.7% (SF Vidin) and 52.4% (ME Nessebar). The overall mortality of the gipsy moth caterpillars due to E. maimaiga was lowest in the region of SGE Balchik (26.1%), followed by SF Vidin (33.7%), SGE Nessebar (48.5%) and ME Nessebar (55.9%). As a result of the introduction, gipsy moth severe outbreaks in the region of Nessebar was significantly suppressed. The high number of E. maimaiga resting spores persists in the surface layers of the soil in the other two areas (Vidin and Balchik) has the potential to suppress L. dispar attacks in next years.

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Research Article Tue, 14 Dec 2021 07:46:00 +0200
Comparison of tree diameter distributions in managed and unmanaged Kazdağı fir forests https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/article/58020/ Silva Balcanica 22(1): 31-43

DOI: 10.3897/silvabalcanica.22.e58020

Authors: Ferhat Kara

Abstract: Forest structural complexity affects tree growth, species diversity, understory seedling density, wildlife habitat and fire behaviour. Thus, defining the structural complexity of forest ecosystems would play a crucial role in their management. The vertical structure in stands of shade-tolerant tree species can be described by using the distribution of tree diameters. In this study, the main objective was to determine and compare the diameter distribution patterns of managed and unmanaged Kazdağı fir (Abies nordmanniana subsp. equi-trojani) forests in northern Turkey. Hierarchical clustering analysis was used to define the diameter distribution patterns. Three main diameter distribution patterns were examined in both managed and unmanaged forests. Two of the patterns in the managed forest did not possess the expected diameter structure of selection silviculture (i.e. reverse J-shape). The observed patterns in the unmanaged forest were mostly representative of the diameter structure of old-growth forests. Given the initial findings, it is likely that the small-scale disturbances created by selection methods may not be adequate to establish and recruit sufficient number of trees into small- diameter sizes in Kazdağı fir forests. The assessment of patterns of tree diameter distribution in these forests would create a basis for future research, aiming to enhance the structural complexity.

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Research Article Fri, 19 Mar 2021 10:00:03 +0200
A methodological approach for monitoring of riparian forests in protected areas on Danube islands https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/article/54963/ Silva Balcanica 21(2): 53-69

DOI: 10.3897/silvabalcanica.21.e54963

Authors: Georgi Hinkov, Plamen Glogov, Vania Kachova, Mira L. Georgieva, Cristian Anghelus, Аlexandru Liviu Ciuvat

Abstract: In the last decades, invasive plant species have rapidly settled on the islands in the Danube River. This process is closely related to anthropogenic activities, such as felling and cultivation of soil for affor-estation of Euro-American poplar trees throughout the Danube River basin. In this regard, it is im-portant to: (i) determine the speed and scope of invasive vegetation establishment and (ii) determine more precisely the ongoing successional dynamics. Monitoring in permanent plots is needed to track the changes and assist in decision-making processes for the management of protected areas on the islands in the Danube River. The aim of the study is to describe and justify an innovative approach to analyse the dynamic of the invasion species occurrence and development as related to site conditions and management across the islands in the Danube River. The following methodological approach was considered: (1) selection of islands with well-preserved and sufficient in area covered by natural forest vegetation; (2) differentiation of strata by forest type, age and canopy cover; (3) setting up permanent sample plots for long-term monitoring in natural riparian forests.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Oct 2020 17:15:00 +0300
Bird community structure of small islands: a case study on the Pahawang Island, Lampung Province, Indonesia https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/article/56108/ Silva Balcanica 21(2): 5-18

DOI: 10.3897/silvabalcanica.21.e56108

Authors: Dian Iswandaru, Indra Gumay Febryano, Trio Santoso, Hari Kaskoyo, Gunardi Djoko Winarno, Rudi Hilmanto, Rahmat Safe’i, Arief Darmawan, Dini Zulfiani

Abstract: Small islands are extremely vulnerable to ecosystem disturbances. One of the common factors im-pacting on island ecosystems is the rise of tourism activity and the associated conversion of man-grove forest’s function into tourism’s supporting facility. Those changes will ultimately affect the diversity of bird species inhabiting the island. Therefore, this study aimed to analyse the structure of a bird community in the mangrove forests of the Pahawang Island. The study used the transect method with tracking implemented. The obtained data were analysed using the Shannon-Wienner diversity index. We recorded 28 species from 21 families. Out of 21 families, Columbidae had the highest number of species (three species). Seven feeding guilds were observed during the present study, the maximum number of species belonged to the insectivore group and the minimum – to the nectarivore and omnivore (1 species each) guilds. Based on the abundance rank, the most abundant species was the cave swiftlet (Collochalia linchi). Three of the recorded species are listed in the cat-egory “Protected” according to the Indonesia Law: the brahminy kite (Haliastur indus), sunda pied fantail (Rhipidura javanica), and the black-naped tern (Sterna sumatrana). All bird species that have been recorded during the present study is classified as “Least Concern” in the IUCN Red List. The values of the Shannon-Wienner index suggest neither high nor low diversity (H’ = 2.55). Mangrove forest ecosystems, including the mudflat on the Pahawang Island, are important supporting popula-tions of wild birds through providing foraging, roosting and nesting sites.

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Research Article Tue, 6 Oct 2020 17:15:00 +0300
Assessment of Public Awareness of the Forestry Sector: Biodiversity, Certification and Ecosystem Services in Velingrad Municipality https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/article/54698/ Silva Balcanica 21(1): 69-76

DOI: 10.3897/silvabalcanica.21.e54698

Authors: Ivan Tsvetkov, Ivan Atanassov, Krasimir Rusanov

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to survey the current public awareness in Velingrad Municipality in terms of biodiversity preservation, certification and ecosystem services in the regional forestry sector. The answers to the questions related to the biodiversity and ecosystem services showed good aware- ness and a very positive attitude of respondents regarding the need for conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity as well as the improvement of ecosystem services. According to the conducted surveys, the awareness concerning the certification and standards in the local forestry sector as well as the regional NATURA 2000 protected sites was still weak or lacking.

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Research Article Tue, 30 Jun 2020 16:00:00 +0300
Ecosystem services from mountain forest ecosystems: conceptual framework, approach and challenges https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/article/54628/ Silva Balcanica 21(1): 47-68

DOI: 10.3897/silvabalcanica.21.e54628

Authors: Maria Glushkova, Miglena Zhiyanski, Stoyan Nedkov, Rositsa Yaneva, Lora Stoeva

Abstract: Mountain ecosystems play an essential role in sustainable mountain development, providing benefits and values to humanity not only for the rich biodiversity they contain, but also because of their important role in climate regulation, water cycle, provisioning of recreation, tourism, cultural or spiritual values. The high biodiversity of the mountain areas allow the provision of a wide range of ecosystem services. However, different impacts to the environment threaten the delivery of these services and, consequently, the quality of life of people, both living in the mountains and outside the mountains. Recognizing, demonstrating and capturing the value of ecosystem services can play an important role in setting policy directions for ecosystem management and conservation and, thus, in increasing the provision of ecosystem services and their contributions to human well-being. Quantifying and mapping of these benefits can also help managers and decision makers to realize the importance of these sites for conservation and to allow the proper understandings of the impacts of mountain forest ecosystems on territorial development and welfare of local populations.The paper aims to outline the relevance and applicability of the ecosystem services approach for the assessment of the condition of mountain ecosystems and the services, they provide, for better understanding by the scientific community and to support decision makers in sustainable management of mountain regions.

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Review Article Tue, 30 Jun 2020 16:00:00 +0300
Study on the relict flora of Lozenska Mountain https://silvabalcanica.pensoft.net/article/54625/ Silva Balcanica 21(1): 5-28

DOI: 10.3897/silvabalcanica.21.e54625

Authors: Plamen Glogov

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to make an inventory of the relicts in the flora of Lozenska Mt., to clarify their origin, taxonomical, ecological and phytogeographical structure and to evaluate their role for the formation of the contemporary flora and vegetation, economic uses and measures for their con- servation. The study was conducted in the period 2017-2019. In order to cover the maximum area and different ecological niches, the sampling was conducted using the transect method. The surveyed territory and its two geographic regions, north-west and south-east, were divided into four sub re- gions (parts) and 19 transects were used for possible comparisons. The biology and ecology of the relict plants was made, thus allowing to group the species in biological and ecological groups, based on life forms, floristic and phytogeographical elements, synanthropy and economic uses. As a result, 61 species and three subspecies, belonging to 48 genera and 35 families, were identified as relict taxa. These number represent 7.4% of the whole flora of Lozenska Mt. (823 species) and 17.6% of the relict species in Bulgarian flora. Tertiary were 93.4% of the mountain’s relicts. The families with the richest number of relict species were Salicaceae (9 species) and Ranunculaceae (4 species). The genera with the largest number of relict species were Salix (5 species) and Populus (4 species). The most relicts (73.7% from their total number on the territory of the mountain) were registered in the south-west part of the mountain, while the smallest number (52.5%) was found in its north-east and south-east parts. The phanerophytes (dominated by the threes) prevailed with more than 60%, followed by the hemicryptophytes (16.4%) and geophytes (13.1%). Most of the relicts on the territory of the Lozenska Mt. have Euroasiatic (17.7%) and sub-Mediterranean (17.7%) origin. The established relicts are pre- dominantly heliophytes (61.3%), mesotherms (86.9%) and mesophytes (59.0%). Each of the studied species is a plant with economic benefits: forestry (36.1%), non-wood resources (88.5%) or ornamental uses (54.1%). Salix caprea and Polygonatum odoratum are included in the Bulgarian Biodiversity Act (2002). The other relict species fall under provisions of different laws, such as the Medicinal plants Act, Forestry Act, Biodiversity Act, including NATuRA 2000 legislative base.

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Research Article Tue, 30 Jun 2020 16:00:00 +0300