THE SPREAD OF LUPINUS POLYPHYLLUS LINDL. OVER SPOIL DUMPS OF THE KOSTOMUKSHA MINING AND PROCESSING PLANT AND IN SAND AND GRAVEL QUARRIES IN KARELIA, RUSSIA

Abstract

The spread of an alien species Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. in the sand and gravel quarry and on spoil rock dumps of the Kostomuksha mining and processing plant was assessed. During 17 years, lupine has spread almost over the entire area of the quarry (8 ha). On the dumps, lupine remained within the boundaries of the experimental plots (1 ha), without going beyond the reclaimed territory. Its percent cover there is low, the species mainly occupying gaps between tree crowns. Despite the high rate of lupine spread across the disturbed area, the species significantly declines in abundance after tree canopy closure. Further spread of lupine is hindered by waterlogging of the substrate, unfavorable light conditions, and soil instability on steep slopes. Lupine does not invade undisturbed natural forest communities surrounding the quarry.