The history of floristic research of forest biogeocenoses in the Northern Steppe Dnipro region

Abstract

The study of the history of flora research in the forests of the Northern Steppe of Ukraine is extremely important for understanding the ecological processes and changes occurring in this region. The forests of the Northern Steppe Dnipro region, as unique ecosystems, have undergone significant transformations under the influence of anthropogenic factors. Understanding the historical aspects of these changes allows us to assess the current state of the forests and develop effective strategies for their conservation and restoration. This article aims to highlight the historical development of botanical research, from ancient historians' descriptions to modern scientific works. Despite its importance, the historical course of flora research in the forests of the Northern Steppe of Ukraine has remained insufficiently studied. The lack of a systematic review of research, from ancient times to the present, has limited the ability to fully understand the changes in species composition and ecological conditions of these forests. It is also important to assess the contributions of the first European travelers and scientists to the study of the region's flora and to determine the impact of anthropogenic factors on these ecosystems. The article provides a detailed review of historical sources related to the study of the flora of the forests of the Northern Steppe of Ukraine. The works of ancient historians, such as Herodotus, and European travelers of the XVII–XVIII centuries, including Guillaume Le Vasseur de Beauplan, Johann Anton Güldenstädt, and Peter Pallas, are considered. The contributions of XIX century scientists, such as Karl Friedrich von Ledebour and Ivan Schmalhausen, are analyzed. Special attention is given to the research of the XX century, which reflects changes in ecosystems under the influence of industrialization and agricultural development. The study revealed that anthropogenic factors, in particular, deforestation, the expansion of agricultural lands, and melioration works, have significantly affected the flora of the forests of the Northern Steppe of Ukraine. The analysis of historical data showed that past botanical research is an important source of information for modern understanding of the region's ecological dynamics. These data help develop strategies for the conservation and restoration of forest ecosystems. The historical development of flora research in the forests of the Northern Steppe of Ukraine is an important part of the scientific heritage, which contributes to expanding knowledge about natural resources and ecological processes of this region. Studying the historical aspects of changes in species composition and ecological conditions of the forests allows for the development of effective strategies for their restoration and conservation. The results obtained emphasize the need for further research and efforts to preserve biodiversity and restore the forest biogeocenoses of the Northern Steppe Dnipro region.