PECULIARITIES OF ANTHROPOGENIC TRANSFORMATION OF FOREST ECOSYSTEMS BETWEEN THE RIVERS DNIESTER AND PRUT

Abstract

We present the results of the analysis of
anthropogenic transformation of the three zonal groups of
forest ecosystems in the Dniester-Prut interfl uve: (i) fresh
types, (ii) dry type, and (iii) very dry type. Schemes of the
direction of transformation of these ecosystems are given. In
fresh beech-hornbeam forests the infl uence of the economic
activity gradually increases the proportion of hornbeam
trees. At the same time, the environmental conditions in the
derivatives of plant communities change little. In oak groves,
when hornbeam trees replace oak trees, there occurs a
change in the composition and condition of undergrowth and
grass cover. The composition and nature of the derivatives
of plant communities depends on the position of the original
ecosystem in the landscape. An important factor is the
exposure of the slope. Anthropogenic impact on dry and very
dry types of forest ecosystems leads to their degradation and
to formation of drier habitats compared to initial conditions.
Anthropogenic transformation of forest ecosystems between
the rivers Dniester and Prut has led to the loss of stability and
gradual degradation.