Comparative Characteristics of the Greek Juniper (Juniperus excelsa Beieb.) Populations in the Southeastern Crimea

Abstract

Population studies of a relic Mediterranean species Juniperus excelsa Bieb. in the southeastern Crimea were conducted. We laid out test plots in such sites of the region: Semidvorje (a natural landmark of local significance); Kanaka (a botanical reserve of national significance); Novy Svet (a botanical reserve of national significance); Kiziltash (a natural landmark having no any conservation status); Karadag (a state nature reserve). The density of Greek juniper populations is approximately similar, varying within 400–500 plants/ha. We have estimated age structure, age index and regeneration index of studied populations. They are dominated by normal left-sided age spectra. It has been established that the current level of recreational load does not pose a threat to the existence of juniper communities: the intensity of natural regeneration is rather high. However, the threats for juniper forests may be a reduction their area due to the construction of new resort facilities and their infrastructure, as well as illegal tree cutting.