Representation of the genus Larix Mill. in the protected areas of Ukrainian Polissia

Abstract

Larix decidua Mill. may become more important than Picea abies (L.) Karst for reforestation and restoration of the natural balance, and therefore it is necessary to investigate this species. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to conduct an inventory of Larix taxa in the protected areas of the mixed forest zone of Ukrainian Polissia, to analyse their distribution, age structure, and use. Research methods used: route, analytical, comparative analysis, systematisation. It was found that 5 species, one variety and two hybrids of larch grow in the protected areas of the mixed forest zone of Ukraine. It was established that L. decidua is the most widespread – it grows in parks-monuments of landscape art, natural monuments, protected tracts, reserves in pure mixed plantings, alleys, row plantings, groups and as a solitaire tree. L. sibirica, L. kaempferi grow as solitaire trees and in groups of 3 to 10 specimens in 9 and 10 protected objects, respectively. L. gmelinii is present in two arboretums, L. laricina – in one. Larix decidua var. polonica (Racib. ex Wóycicki) Ostenf. & Syrach is not widespread, represented in groups in 6 parks-monuments of landscape art and Bereznivskyi denrorark. Larix × eurolepis A. Henry. is widespread in pure and mixed stands, grows in an alley in the Slavianskyi park-monument of landscape art, in groups – in the Lisova Aleia Botanical Reserve, Bereznivskyi denrorark, and in mixed stands of the Riznolissia General Zoological Reserve. The age structure is quite diverse, represented by L. decidua, L. sibirica, L. decidua var. polonica aged from 100 to 200 years. Other species, varieties, and hybrids are represented by specimens aged from 3 years (L.×eurolepis) to 80 years (L. kaempferi). 69.2% of larch stands are in good condition, 28.9% are in satisfactory condition, and only 1.9% are in poor condition. The results of the research can be used in the further creation of pure and mixed stands, alleys, etc. in the mixed forest zone