National Botanical Garden Research Articles

Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the construction of the national botanical garden system

Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the construction of the national botanical garden system

Ex-situ Conservation Practice at National Botanical Garden, Godawari, Lalitpur, Nepal

Ex-situ conservation refers to the conservation of components of biological diversity outside their natural habitats. Since biodiversity is currently being lost at an unprecedented rate in their natural habitats, ex-situ conservation has become a suitable approach in their conservation. Botanical gardens are institutions or places that provide a suitable environment for the survival of threatened plant species. Through living plant collection, the botanical gardens have done tremendous contribution to ex-situ conservation of plant diversity which is in dire need for their conservation. With the establishment of National Botanical Garden (NBG) in Nepal in 1962, ex-situ conservation and protection of wild and threatened plant species has been properly addressed. A total of 547 taxa (542 species), 334 (331 species) of which are exotic and 213 (211 species) of which are native, have been preserved by NBG. NBG harbors 1 extinct in the wild, 1 critically endangered, 6 endangered, 5 vulnerable and 3 near threatened plant species according to the IUCN Red List categories, while 5 are endemic species to Nepal. It has also conserved CITES listed plant species (Appendix I- 1 species, Appendix II- 38 species and Appendix III- 2 species). Therefore, NBG plays a crucial role in the conservation of threatened species, educating the public and supporting them in understanding that conservation is a shared responsibility.

Wild Seed Conservation in National Botanical Garden, Lalitpur, Nepal

Seed banks are the important means for the ex-situ conservation of plant genetic diversity. Though the seeds of domesticated varieties have been preserved for a long time, wild seed conservation is a noble concept in Nepal. Seed Bank of National Botanical Garden, Godawari, Lalitpur (NBG) is a major initiative for the conservation of wild plant seeds in Nepal. In the present study, a standardized seed banking procedures practiced at the Seed Bank of NBG, from seed collection to storage including germination test has been included. Currently, seeds of 84 wild species belonging to 77 genera of 47 families are preserved in the NBG. Alongside preserving wild genetic resources, NBG Seed Bank also provides materials for restoration, reintroduction and research that supports broader plant conservation goals, as well as contributes to education and public awareness about plant conservation.

ANTIBACTERIAL PROPERTIES OF ETHANOLIC EXTRACTS OBTAINED FROM LEAVES OF SOME PLANTS BELONGING TO THE SANSEVIERIA THUNB. GENUS AGAINST ACINETOBACTER BAUMANNII STRAIN

Purpose: In study, an attempt has been made to evaluate the antibacterial activity of seventeen plants belonging to the Sansevieria genus against Acinetobacter baumannii complex isolate, resistant to gentamicin and ciprofloxacin (specimen 3680, UK NEQAS). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antibacterial capacity and to validate scientifically the inhibitory activity of some plants belonging to the Sansevieria genus for microbial growth attributed to their popular use and to propose new sources of antimicrobial agents. Methodology. The leaves of Sansevieria plants, cultivated under glasshouse conditions, were sampled at M.M. Gryshko National Botanic Garden (NBG), National Academy of Science of Ukraine. Specifically, the leaves of Sansevieria francisii Chahin, S. caulescens N.E.Br., S. suffruticosa N.E.Br., S. roxburghiana Schult. & Schult.f., S. metallica Gérôme & Labroy, S. gracilis N.E.Br., S. hyacinthoides (L.) Druce, S. cylindrica Bojer ex Hook., S. canaliculata Carrière, S. aethiopica Thunb., S. kirkii Baker, S. trifasciata Prain, S. forskaliana (Schult. & Schult.f.) Hepper & J.R.I. Wood, S. fischeri (Baker) Marais, S. dooneri N.E.Br., S. intermedia N.E.Br., S. parva N.E.Br. were sampled for the study. Antimicrobial activity was determined using the agar disk diffusion technique. Scientific novelty. Results proved that extracts obtained from the leaves of S. dooneri and S. gracilis were particularly active against Acinetobacter baumannii complex isolate (diameters of inhibition zones were 14-20.5 mm). It was followed by the activities of extracts from the S. suffriticosa (15.4 ± 1.11 mm), S. fischeri (14.7 ± 1.1 mm), S. parva (14.2 ± 1.1 mm), S. canaliculate (13.8 ± 1.18 mm), S. trifasciata leaves (13.7 ± 1.3 mm). Finally, the ethanolic extracts of S. hyacinthoides and S. intermedia showed fewer antimicrobial activities (diameters of inhibition zones ranged between 7.5 to 10 mm). Conclusions. Hence, the ethanolic extracts derived from S. dooneri and S. gracilis exhibit a favorable antibacterial activity against Acinetobacter baumannii, indicating that these plants could be a good source of antibacterial agents to combat A. baumannii-mediated infections. Thus, the leaves of some plants belonging to the Sansevieria genus with antibacterial properties may offer alternative therapeutic agents against bacterial infections.

Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Equine Erythrocytes and Plasma after in vitro Treatment with an Aqueous Leaf Extract of Coelogyne brachyptera Rchb. f. (Orchidaceae)

Many orchids have been used as medicinal plants for many years in China, Japan, India, and some other countries. They showed many health-beneficial functions, such as the protection of cells against free radicals and oxidative stress possessing hepatoprotection, cardioprotection, gastroprotection, neuroprotection, and other properties. This study aimed to investigate the oxidative stress biomarkers [2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), aldehydic and ketonic derivatives of oxidatively modified proteins (OMP), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC)] in the equine erythrocytes and plasma after in vitro incubation with an extract derived from leaves of Coelogyne brachyptera Rchb. f. The leaves of C. brachyptera plants, cultivated under glasshouse conditions, were sampled at M.M. Gryshko National Botanic Garden (NBG), National Academy of Science of Ukraine. Freshly collected leaves were washed, weighed, crushed, and homogenized in 0.1M phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) (in the proportion of 1:19, w/w). The equine plasma and erythrocyte aliquots were used in the study. The pellet of blood was re-suspended in phosphate buffer (pH 7.4). A volume of 0.1 mL of the C. brachyptera extract was added to 1.9 mL of clean equine erythrocytes or 1.9 mL of plasma. For positive control (blank), 0.1M phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) added to erythrocytes or plasma was used. Results of our study revealed that erythrocytes were more sensitive to the action of an extract derived from leaves of C. brachyptera. The levels of aldehydic and ketonic derivatives of oxidatively modified proteins in the treated erythrocytes were significantly decreased, while these parameters were no-changed in the equine plasma. The treatment of equine erythrocytes by extract derived from leaves of C. brachyptera increased lipid peroxidation. On the other hand, plasma TBARS level after treatment by extract derived from leaves of C. brachyptera was at the same level as in untreated controls. The level of total antioxidant capacity was not-significantly changed after treatment both in equine plasma and erythrocytes. Studies concerning the antioxidant properties of orchids are continued in our laboratory.

Antibacterial Activity of Ethanolic Extracts of Aglaonema commutatum Schott and its Cultivars against Enterococcus faecalis Strains

The application of plants coming from tropical and subtropical regions in the management of bacterial infections can be considered a positive occurrence in most traditional medicine practices. Consequently, plants having antimicrobial activity against various pathogens can be considered great assets. Moreover, increased problems associated with side effects and bacterial resistance to chemical drugs have prompted us to focus on the antibacterial potentials of some plants belonging to the Aglaonema genus. The purpose of the current study was to examine the antibacterial activity of ethanolic extracts derived from Aglaonema commutatum Schott and its cultivars (Malay Beauty, Silver Queen, and Silver King) against two Enterococcus faecalis strains, i.e. Enterococcus faecalis (Andrewes and Horder) Schleifer and Kilpper-Balz 51299™ (resistant to vancomycin; sensitive to teicoplanin) and Enterococcus faecalis (Andrewes and Horder) Schleifer and Kilpper-Balz 29212™. These plants were cultivated under glasshouse conditions at M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden, National Academy of Science of Ukraine. The testing of the antibacterial activity of the plant extracts was carried out in vitro by the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique. Results of this study revealed that the extracts derived from leaves of A. commutatum and cv. Silver Queen exhibited higher inhibitory activity against the growth of E. faecalis (Andrewes and Horder) Schleifer and Kilpper-Balz 51299™ than the extracts from cv. Melay Beauty and Silver King. Maximum in vitro inhibition was scored by cultivar Silver Queen, followed by A. commutatum, cv. Malay Beauty and Silver King. On the other hand, extracts derived from leaves of A. commutatum cv. Melay Beauty and Silver Queen exhibited higher inhibitory activity against the growth of E. faecalis (Andrewes and Horder) Schleifer and Kilpper-Balz 29212™ than the extracts derived from the cv. Silver King and A. commutatum. Maximum in vitro inhibition was scored by cv. Malay Beauty, followed by cv. Silver Queen and Silver King, and A. commutatum. Therefore, this plant can be used to treat various diseases caused by E. faecalis strains. There is a lot of potentials for this plant to treat infections caused by these bacteria. Therefore, these plants may be helpful in the management of infections caused by E. faecalis, especially in traditional medicine practices. However, further research is required to understand the mechanisms involved in antimicrobial activity.

Assessment of Antioxidant Activity of Ethanol Extracts of Vigna spp.

Plants of Vigna Savi genus are widely used in the world as food and medicinal plants. Most investigations propagated the biochemical composition and biological activity of seeds of these plants due to the high content of proteins but fewer studies about the above-ground plant part. The aim of this study focused on the investigation of the antioxidant activity of Vigna spp. The plant raw of Vigna angularis (Willd.) Ohwi & H. Ohashi, V. mungo (L.) Hepper, V. radiata (L.) Wilczek, V. unguiculata (L.) Walp. was collected from the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine experimental collection at the start of the vegetation and flowering stage. At the start of vegetation was determined 45.27–77.21 mg GAE.g-1 (gallic acid equivalent) of total polyphenol compounds (TPC), 8.67–20.48 mg CAE.g-1 (caffeic acid equivalent) of total phenolic acids (TPAC), 31.84–47.97 mg QE.g-1 (quercetin equivalent) of total flavonoids content (TFC), 6.97–8.14 mg TE.g-1 (Trolox equivalent) of antioxidant activity by DPPH method, and 110.52 to 142.61 mg TE.g-1 of AA by phosphomolybdenum method. At the flowering stage found the following results: 27.16–78.11 mg GAE.g-1 of polyphenol compounds, 4.97–17.16 mg CAE.g-1 of phenolic acids, 18.27–54.26 mg QE.g-1 of flavonoids, 4.6–6.69 mg TE.g-1 of AA by DPPH method, and 45.16–110.27 mg TE.g-1 of antioxidant activity by phosphomolybdenum method. A very strong correlation found between antioxidant activity by phosphomolybdenum method and TPAC (r = 0.883), TPC (r = 0.858), and TFC (r = 0.843) at the flowering stage. These results can be used for further biochemical and pharmacological investigations of these plants.

Variation of Fruits Morphometric Parameters and Iridoid Content of Lonicera caerulea L. Germplasm Collection

The dark-blue, fleshy berries of Lonicera caerulea L. are used as fresh or processed in many products such as juice, smoothie, wine, compote, jam, marmalade, candies, chocolate, cake, or extracts. L. caerulea fruits are appreciated in the food industry and medicine mainly due to a high content of biologically active phenolic compounds, especially anthocyanins and vitamin C – in the amount up to 186 mg.100 g-1, and health-promoting properties. Thirty-four genotypes of Lonicera caerulea species originated from germplasm collection of the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine in M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of NAS of Ukraine (NBG) (Kyiv, Ukraine) and were characterized by using the morphometric traits and iridoids content. Differences between the genotypes were significant in all observed parameters. The fruits of L. caerulea collection varied in evaluated morphometric parameters as follows: fruit weight 0.70–1.54 g, length 15.33–26.52 mm, diameter 7.12–13.10 mm. The shape indexes of fruits varied from 1.42 to 3.65. Our results showed that the content of iridoids ranged from 97 to 314 mg.100 g-1 of fresh L. caerulea fruits. Interestingly, L. caerulea berries taste differs between the varieties, those with bitter or sour-bitter taste are distinguished by the highest content of iridoids (225–314 mg.100 g-1), while berries without bitter taste were characterized by significantly lower contents. Thus, honeysuckle berries should be selected preferentially regarding their bitterness, due to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties of iridoids.

Phenological Growth Stages According to the BBCH Scale Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb.

Phenology is a key trait of plants of all species, as it determines their season and duration of growth and reproduction, as well as their ability to capture variable resources. Understanding the phenology of Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. a rare but promising fruit and medicinal plant of Ukraine, namely the codification of the stages of seasonal development, according to the international BBCH scale, is important for the evaluation of breeding material and the development of new varieties, improving the technological qualities of fruits. In the climatic conditions of Ukraine (M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv), the studied genotypes of E. multiflora go through a full cycle of development. Plants begin the growing season with the development of leaves and shoots. According to the international BBCH scale, they clearly distinguish eight of the ten main stages of seasonal development, in particular: the development of buds (Principal growth stage 0), leaves (Principal growth stage 1), shoots (Principal growth stage 3), inflorescence emergence (Principal growth stage 5), flowering (Principal growth stage 6), fruit development (Principal growth stage 7), fruit ripening (Principal growth stage 8) and senescence and the onset of dormancy (Principal growth stage 9). The proposed BBCH scale for characterizing the phenological stages of E. multiflora plants can be used to guide the growers as to when to carry out orchard management practices such as canopy training and pruning, nutrient and water application, pest and disease control and post-harvest processing. Correct identification of phenological stages is of great importance for the characterization and management of E. multiflora. Thus, this study will ensure the dissemination of knowledge about E. multiflora cultivars among growers and researchers.

Comparative Study of Biochemical Composition of Paulownia tomentosa (Thunb.) Steud. Genotypes

The review of previous studies on Paulownia spp. showed that these plants are valuable raw materials with polyfunctional use among which are medicinal, forage, energetic, etc. This study demonstrated the accumulation of selected biochemical components in the different parts of Paulownia tomentosa (Thunb.) Steud. genotypes plants by the end of vegetation collected from experimental collections of M. M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. The accumulation of selected nutrients in the leaves was the following: a dry matter of 24.09–29.44%, lipid content of 5.01–8.58%, total sugar content of 5.51–9.82%, mono sugar content of 1.73–6.17%, ash content of 1.09–8.96%, phosphorus content of 0.47–1.60%, calcium content of 1.41–3.43%, and heating value of raw material of 4,083.09–4,353.11 Kcal.kg-1. In the branches of investigated genotypes on average accumulated 37.5–46.0% of dry matter, 3.69–6.52% of lipids, 6.66–19.96% of total sugar content, 1.95–5.75% of mono sugar content, 1.43–2.93% of ash content, 0.38–0.89% of phosphorus content, 0.515–1.61% of calcium content, and 3,911.45–4,290.78 Kcal.kg-1of heating value. The trunks had 40.09–51.5% of dry matter, 2.0–6.14% of lipids, 6.44–20.48% of sugars, 1.6–3.67% of mono sugars, 1.18–2.53% of ash, 0.22–0.40% of phosphorus, 0.37–0.63% of calcium, and 4,073.45–4,525.28 Kcal.kg-1 of heating value. A very strong correlation was found between sugars and mono sugars content in the leaves (r = 0.859), lipids and phosphorus (r = 0.864) in the branches, heating value, and calcium (r = 0.820) in the trunks. Due to the increasing interest in the growth and use of P. tomentosa during the last time, this study can be useful for further breeding work with this species as biofuel, forage, and medicinal plants.

Flora of the botanical-geographical plot “Steppes of Ukraine” in the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the NAS of Ukraine

In 2020–2022, the complete taxonomic composition of the flora for the botanical-geographical plot “Steppes of Ukraine” at the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the NAS of Ukraine (NBG) was studied and analyzed. This plot was established at the NBG in 1949 to demonstrate the floristic diversity of the Ukrainian Steppes ex situ. According to the inventory results, 347 species and infraspecific taxa from 196 genera and 53 families of higher vascular plants were recorded in the flora of the plot. The steppic component of this plot joins 213 species and infraspecific taxa (61.38 % of the total number of inventoried taxa) belonging to the collection fund and representing the flora of the Steppes of Ukraine, 126 species and infraspecific taxa (36.31 %) of which are introduced plants and 87 species and infraspecific taxa (25.07 %) are native plants. During the inventory, spontaneously growing plants that are not a part of the collection fund were precisely studied. Among inventoried plants, native non-steppic plants are represented by 46 species and infraspecific taxa (13.26 %); alien plants – by 88 taxa (25.36 %), including ergasiophygophytes (45 taxa, 12.97 %) and xenophytes (43 taxa, 12.39 %). The plants of the collection fund predominate on the plot and form the main vegetation cover.Currently, the taxonomic composition of the plot is similar to the characteristics of regional meadow-steppes. The perennials dominate in the biomorphological structure of the plot’s flora (63.69 %), which is typical for the steppic phytocoenoses. In general, a significant number of trees is present here (5.48 %), which is explained by the forest communities surrounding the plot and, as a result, their active self-sowing. Hemicryptophytes prevail in the plot’s flora (60.52 %). Nevertheless, the collection fund of the plot is distinguished by the absence of trees, a greater number of perennials (79.34 %), and hemicryptophytes (72.77 %). The steppic (33.33 %) and marginal (33.33 %) plants prevail in the collection fund, while the amount of meadow plants (18.78 %) is still significant. In the plot “Steppes of Ukraine”, most of the rare introduced plants formed stable homeostatic introduction coenopopulations. Among them, 15 species and rare infraspecific taxa are listed in the Red Book of Ukraine.

Coleopteran Diversity at the three selected areas in Dhaka City, Bangladesh

The diversity of coleopteran species was studied at three different selected areas in Dhaka city from December 2016 to November 2017. A total of 11,397 individuals of 56 coleopteran species belonging to 50 genera, including 15 families, were recorded in the study areas during the study period. Of them, 47 species (4916 individuals) of 13 families were found at the Ramna Park, 48 species (2441 individuals) of 15 families at the National Botanical Garden, and 42 species (4040 individuals) of 11 families at the Atomic Energy Research Establishment (AERE) campus. A total of 30 species, 25 genera, and 11 families were common in these three study areas. At the Ramna Park, the highest species richness included the family Chrysomelidae (34.04%), and the lowest was under the six families including Staphylinidae, Bostrichidae, Nitidulidae, Geotrupidae, Erotylidae, and Scarabaeidae (2.13%). At the National Botanical Garden, the maximum number of species was recorded under the family Chrysomelidae (6.24%), and the lowest was under seven families including Staphylinidae, Bostrichidae, Nitidulidae, Geotrupidae, Erotylidae, Elateridae, and Dermestidae (2.08%). The maximum number of coleopteran species was identified under the family Chrysomelidae (35.71%), and the lowest was under six families including Staphylinidae, Cerambycidae, Nitidulidae, Geotrupidae, Elateridae, and Dermestidae (2.38%) at the AERE campus. The Shanon’s Diversity Index (H′) and Simpson’s Index (λ) indicate high coleopteran diversity at the Ramna Park (H′=3.41, λ=0.05), the AERE Campus (H′=3.07, λ=0.06), and the National Botanical Garden (H′=2.93, λ=0.08). The high species evenness in the Ramna Park (J’= 0.89) and the AERE campus (J’= 0.82) indicates that the species were evenly distributed, whereas at the National Botanical Garden (J’= 0.76) they were comparatively less evenly distributed. The calculated Sorenson’s Coefficient (CC) is 0.66, indicating that these three communities were fairly similar or overlapped. The Community Dominances were 21.03%, 32.16% and 18.66% for the Ramna Park, National Botanical Garden, and AERE campus, respectively. Bangladesh J. Zool. 50 (2): 185-200, 2022

Students as co-creators of an Aboriginal & Torres Strait heritage garden and interactive maps

Over the last decade in response to the Universities Australia National Best Practice Framework for Indigenous Cultural Competency (2011), Australian Higher Education curricula have become increasingly permeable to First Nations ways of knowing being and doing. Online Campus Floras ("Turning campus grounds into botanical learning and teaching spaces,"Quinnell, The University of Sydney, 2020) can offer valuable teaching resources for biology and for experiential place-based learning beyond biology (e.g., in ecology, human geography, storytelling) as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage walking trails (Muecke & Eadie, 2020), and as portals to translate intergenerational knowledge by offering cultural, experiential learning for everyone (Muecke & Eadie, 2020). Partnerships between schools, two Australian universities (one in Brisbane and one in Sydney) and respectful working practices with First Nations knowledge holders in use of co-designed citizenship science projects to create, curate and disseminate location and information about Indigenous Knowings in plants by incorporating learning objects (photos, videos) derived from observations of campus flora at a university in Brisbane, Queensland, is the first of its kind to create a distinctive learning environment celebrating co-creation alongside Indigenous Knowings in curriculum via use of technology. The value of outdoor learning in the context of First Nations’ cultural connections to the living worlds is well-documented, with most botanical gardens and universities offering Aboriginal heritage trails (e.g., Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology("RMIT Keelbundoora scarred trees and heritage trail," 2020), Murdoch University ("Murdoch University: Ngoolak, Poolgala and Koorloo Walk Trail," 2020), Monash University ("Monash University:Aboriginal Trail," 2020)), The University of Sydney (“Patyegarang Language Trail, 2016). In addition, citizen science approaches offered the means for students and knowledge experts to collaborate in an online environment whilst working outdoors (e.g., Pettit et al., 2014; Struwe et al., 2014). Citizen science applications like iNaturalist App, resolve the challenges for collaborators (students and knowledge experts) when unable to physically meet due to remote locations and COVID-19 restrictions, to meet online and work in equal partnership to develop their digital literacies and resources. Here, First Nations plant knowledge was gathered in partnership from an external Indigenous plants/garden local consultant for Brisbane with students from our school collaborators via regular guidance and consultation. Learning objects (i.e. plants, yarning circles, native beehives) were crafted into a virtual educational tour using an online mapping system iNaturalist App to facilitate blended learning experiences. Students follow up by participating in development of appropriate inclusion of this information in the curriculum. Use of these online resources can widen participation outcomes and deeply embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives into school and university curricula leading to preservation and promotion of Indigenous Knowings both to a national and international audience. Permission to disseminate and share this information as a teaching resource between First Nations, participating schools and the two participating universities was secured. Implications for further practice include co-creation and development of online Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander heritage walking trails at other universities, linking to local and national botanical gardens and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander resource websites.

Peculiarities of the distribution of assimilates in the organs of Schisandra chinensis plants under different soil and climatic conditions

Peculiarities of accumulation of nutrients in the leaves of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. and rhizosphere soil under the conditions of its continuous monoculture have been studied. Comparative analysis of the distribution of nutrients in the leaves of plants under different soil and climatic conditions revealed significant differences. It was found that plants grown on podzolic chernozem of Kolomyia State Forest Fund (Otyniia, Ukraine) were characterized by more intensive absorption of such nutrients as Ca, Si, P, Cu, Zn and Mg. The content of P, K, S, Mn was much higher in the foliar tissues of S. chinensis plants cultivated on the territory of the M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden (Kyiv, Ukraine) in the conditions of dark grey forest soil. The high ability of plants to accumulate and release Mg into the rhizosphere soil was revealed, which is fully consistent with the selective ability of plants to release mineral elements into the soil environment in accordance with their ecomorphotypes. At the same time, the amount of Ca in the rhizosphere soil decreased significantly at the end of the vegetative period, which could be explained, on the one hand, by the intensive influx of Ca into plant tissues and, on the other hand, by participation in chemical balancing processes to reduce manganese and nitrogen mobility in the soil. Barrier-free accumulation of Fe, Ca, Mg, Al elements in S. chinensis leaves was revealed, which should be taken into account when developing plant cultivation technology. The studies of allelopathy activity of vegetative and generative organs of plants and rhizosphere soil have shown that phenolic substances accumulate in small amounts in the soil under S. chinensis, which is a prerequisite for successful cultivation of this fruit vine in the Forest-Steppe zone of Ukraine under conditions of continuous long-term cultivation. The largest amount of phenolic substances was in the upper soil horizons, which gradually decreased with depth, which is consistent with the course of redox processes for the studied soil profiles. The pool of free amino acids of S. chinensis plants growing in different soil and climatic conditions was analyzed, the concentration of amino acids in the leaves was the most indicative. Evaluation of the quantitative and qualitative distribution of free amino acids in plant tissues serves as a diagnostic sign of plant sensitivity to soil and climatic conditions.

Nursery screening of poplar and willow clones for biofuel application in Ukraine

Poplars and willows are fast-growing trees that can be effectively grown as a renewable energy source. This study was devoted to the preliminary screening of poplar and willow clones for biofuel application in a fast-growing tree nursery established in the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. The nursery includes 19 Populus and 10 Salix clones, with many hybrids of Ukrainian origin. The clones were assessed in the first two years in the nursery using growth parameters, biomass fuel criteria, and susceptibility to pathogens. Using total rank for evaluation, the highest rank was found in the poplar clone “Kanadska × balsamichna” followed by the clones “Ivantiivska”, “Volosystoplidna”, “Perspektyvna”, and “Nocturn”. Among the willows, the highest rank was recorded for the clone “Zhytomyrska-1”, followed by clone “Zhytomyrska-2”. High ranks were also found in the poplars “Strilopodibna”, “Mobilna”, “Novoberlinska-7” and “Keliberdynska”, and the willows “Lisova pisnya” and “Vinnytska”. Thus, the above-mentioned clones may be recommended as promising trees, though they should be further evaluated under field conditions for growth performance within the short-rotation cycles. The clones with the lowest total rank were poplars “Bolle”, “Gradizka” and “Kytaiska × piramidalna” and willows “Lukash”, “Olimpiisky vohon” and “Pryberezhna” are not recommended for bioenergy short-rotation plantations. Evaluation of plants in the nursery allowed us to carry out rapid and cost-effective preliminary screening. Such multiclonal screening of bioenergy trees for planting in short rotations was described for the first time in Ukraine.

The collection of Mammillaria Haw. in the “Alexandru Ciubotaru” National Botanical Garden (Institute)

The article presents the characteristics of the genus Mammillaria Haw. in the light of the classification proposed by D.Hunt. It also describes the dynamics of development of the collection of representatives of the genus Mammillaria in the “Alexandru Ciubotaru” National Botanical Garden (Institute). The results of the systematization, revision and identification of the species genului Mammillaria from the collection are presented below.

IDENTIFICATION OF VITAMIN C IN FLOWERS AND LEAVES MALUS SPP.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the ascorbic acid content in vegetative and generative organs of crabapple from the collection of the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. Considering the abundant flowering, higher fruiting in comparison with Malus domestica Borkh., increased content of nutrients and biologically active substances in flowers and leaves of crabapple, they deserve wide use in production. The genotypes were planted to a permanent place of growth in 2014. Total ascorbic acid content in flowers ranged from 116 (Holliana) to 188 (Era) mg / 100 g, in leaves from 112 (Van Ezeltin) to 183 (Royalty) mg / 100 g.
 The objects of the study are valuable for use as raw materials of biologically active additives. Using the flowers and leaves of Malus spp., As raw materials for the production of dry powder, will meet the needs of consumers for affordable and nutritious ingredients rich in vitamin C.

Coenopopulations of Isopyrum thalictroides L. in the M. M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the NAS of Ukraine

The article presents the results of a study of coenopopulations of European relict species, regionally rare ornamental spring ephemeroid Isopyrum thalictroides L. in the collection “Rare plants of the flora of Ukraine” and botanical-geographical areas “Altai and Western Siberia” and “Steppes of Ukraine” of M. M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (NBG). The origin of I. thalictroides in the areas of the NBG is different. On the plot “Rare plants of the flora of Ukraine” I. thalictroides is an introduced species, but in the areas “Altai and Western Siberia” and “Steppes of Ukraine” it is ergasiophygophyte. In the areas of NBG I. thalictroides shows a tendency to expand the territory, penetrates into forest (“Altai and Western Siberia”) and meadow-steppe (“Steppes of Ukraine”) cultural phytocoenoses, where it forms spontaneous coenopopulations. The conditions of habitats and sizes of coenopopulations of I. thalictroides differ in the areas of NBG: the largest is in the area “Rare plants of flora of Ukraine” (2.6 × 2.6 m), medium in “Altai and Western Siberia” (sizes of loci 1.3 × 1.3 m, 0.4 × 0.4 m and 0.1 × 0.1 m), the smallest in “Steppes of Ukraine” (0.3 × 0.3 m). Rhythms of growth and development of I. thalictroides in the conditions of Kyiv quite correspond to seasonal fluctuations of temperatures. The earliest flowering of I. thalictroides was observed in the areas of the NBG in the first half of April 2020, the latest in the second half of April in 2021–2022; flowering period in the beginning of fruiting in all areas coincided. Coenotic conditions of I. thalictroides habitats in the composition of artificially formed vegetation in the NBG and in nature differ. In the NBG areas, the species grows together with introduced, native and alien plant species and shows significant ecological and coenotic plasticity. The age spectra of all coenopopulations of I. thalictroides on the NBG areas are left-handed. The total percentage of shoots of the pregenerative period of ontogenesis (juvenile, immature, virginіle) is very high (88.98–93.62 %). The highest values are for virginile shoots (71.78–82.98 %), which may be due to the predominance of vegetative propagation over seed. The spatial distribution of shoots in coenopopulations of I. thalictroides is group, which may be due to a combination of barochoria and vegetative propagation. The number of shoots in coenopopulations of I. thalictroides in different parts of the NBG differs significantly: the largest is in the area “Rare plants of flora of Ukraine” (3562 shoots), medium in “Altai and Western Siberia” (1017 shoots), the smallest in “Steppes of Ukraine” (47 shoots). In contrast, the average density of shoots in all coenopopulations of I. thalictroides is high, uniform and is 522–546 different age shoots per 1 m2. The dependence of the number of flowers and/or fruits оn generative shoots from the height of the shoots was not detected. A study of the growth and development of I. thalictroides in NBG areas has shown that the formation of coenopopulations, both introductory and spontaneous, is an effective and promising method of conservation and protection of this species ex situ.

Pilot Study on the Physio-psychological Effects of Botanical Gardens on the Prefrontal Cortex Activity in an Adult Male Group

Background and objective: With modern lifestyles and the increasing severity of stress-related diseases, the availability and accessibility of the natural environment are critical. Botanical gardens in an urban area can provide opportunities for city dwellers to experience nature and enjoy stress-reducing activities. This study focused on the health-related effects of botanical gardens by investigating prefrontal cortical activity and changes in psychological states.Methods: The experiment was conducted in a national botanical garden located in the city of Sejong, and in an urban area of a contrasting city. Nine healthy adult males participated in the field experiment. Subjects were instructed to 'see and feel' the landscape in a sitting position for 10 minutes, both in the botanical garden and in the city center. The health effects of botanical gardens were verified using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS), including changes in cerebral blood flow, and Profile of Mood State (POMS) and Perceived Restoration Scale (PRS).Results: Our findings showed that the oxyhemoglobin concentrations in the left prefrontal cortex were considerably lower in the botanical garden (-0.057 ± 0.003 µM) than in the city center (0.162 ± 0.002 µM, <i>p</i> < .001). Significantly positive psychological responses to the garden environment were found in the analysis of POMS and PRS, compared to the urban setting. These findings may indicate that a botanical garden can reduce negative psychological symptoms and physiological stress levels in adult males.Conclusion: Our study proves that botanical gardens have the environmental characteristics of restorative and therapeutic spaces. The findings indicated that urban gardens could be considered as health-improving environments by reducing the physio-psychological stress levels of urban dwellers.

Germination ecology of three Asteraceae annuals Arctotis hirsuta, Oncosiphon suffruticosum, and Cotula duckittiae in the winter-rainfall region of South Africa: A review

Abstract Asteraceae annuals from South Africa’s winter-rainfall region often exhibit poor germination, and it is a challenge to establish a garden display using fresh seeds from the wild. Arctotis hirsuta (Harv.) Beauvard is a popular ornamental, Oncosiphon suffruticosum (L. Bolus) K. Bremer & Humphries is important in traditional medicine, and Cotula duckittiae (L. Bolus) K. Bremer & Humphries has a vulnerable (VU) status on the red list of South African plants. C. duckittiae is teetering on the brink of extinction in a few localities on severely threatened ecosystems due to continued pressure on land for housing developments and invasive aliens. At present, there is no knowledge of O. suffruticosum being cultivated exclusively for its healing properties. The successful cultivation of this species may allow it to fulfil not only a more acute medicinal role in society but also in the economy to create precious job opportunities. The potential to develop or improve certain plant breeding lines of A. hirsuta commercially, besides just normal wild forms of these species at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, is huge. This, in addition to the ongoing pressure exerted on wild populations of C. duckittiae, warrants investigations into aspects of germination ecology of this VU species of the West Coast.