First Record of Slime Molds in Biebrza National Park (NE Poland)

Dominika Małgorzata Ślusarczyk

doi:10.5586/am.564

Abstract

Abstract This paper provides the first recorded data of slime molds in Biebrza National Park (NE Poland). In total, 16 species of myxomycetes belonging to nine genera were observed.

Highlights

Myxomycetes are a small group of eukaryotic organisms that includes approximately 1,000 species worldwide. ey are characterized by a complex life cycle that is distinguished by the presence of a plasmodium stage and the formation of sporocarps (Baba & Sevindik, 2018; Lado, 2005–2021; Stephenson & Rojas, 2017)
E ecology of northeast (NE) Poland is rich and varied, with many species of plants, animals, and fungi. ey are protected in four national parks: Białowieża National Park, Narew National Park, Biebrza National Park (BbNP), and Wigry National Park
BbNP was established in 1993; it is the largest national park in Poland, covering 59.223 ha with a 66.824 ha buffer zone. e park is unique within Europe in that it encompasses an entire river valley, from its sources to its mouth. e river valley itself comprises a number of habitats preserved in an almost unchanged state, organized according to natural longitudinal and transversal zones with their corresponding plant communities as well as a large complex of fens

Summary

Introduction

Myxomycetes are a small group of eukaryotic organisms that includes approximately 1,000 species worldwide. ey are characterized by a complex life cycle that is distinguished by the presence of a plasmodium stage and the formation of sporocarps (Baba & Sevindik, 2018; Lado, 2005–2021; Stephenson & Rojas, 2017). Slime molds have been studied in several national parks (Drozdowicz, 1997, 2004, 2009, 2014; Komorowska & Drozdowicz, 1996; Magiera & Drozdowicz, 2004; Narkiewicz et al, 2013; Panek & Romański, 2010; Salamaga et al, 2016). E river valley itself comprises a number of habitats preserved in an almost unchanged state, organized according to natural longitudinal and transversal zones with their corresponding plant communities as well as a large complex of fens. A field study by Panek and Romański (2010) in Wigry National Park (NE Poland) yielded an interesting and rich collection of slime molds, including seven species new to the country. E present data on BbNP were obtained as part of a mycological study undertaken by members of the Polish Mycological Society. e results of the mycological study were previously presented by Kujawa et al (2012, 2015) and Ruszkiewicz-Michalska et al (2012, 2015)

Material and Methods

List of Species