ISSN 1996-4536 (Print) ISSN 2311-0783 (Online) ISSN Center responsible for the record: CIEPS — ISSN, Record creation date: 23/12/2013 DOI: https://doi.org/10.30970/sbi. Founder & Publisher: Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Ukraine Member of Ukrainian Council of Science Editors (UCSE) https://www.ucse.org.ua Editor-in-Chief: Rostyslav S. Stoika Frequency of Publishing: Quarterly* *In some cases, one joint issue (N 3–4) of the journal may be published at the end of year. In that case, the articles will appear for the preview on the journal’s website as soon as they have been accepted by the editorial board. Registration of an Entity in the Field of Print Media: Decision of the National Council on Television and Radio Broadcasting of Ukraine No. 1877 dated 30.05.2024. Media Identifier R30-04924; included in the List of Scientific Professional Editions of Ukraine, Сategory A (091 – Biological sciences) in which the results of dissertations for obtaining the scientific degrees of Doctor of Sciences, Candidate of Sciences and Doctor of Philosophy can be published according to the Resolution No 768 of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine dated by 20.06.2023. Біологічні студії / Studia Biologica publishes original research articles, review articles, brief reports, reports on technical advances, book reviews, comments on all areas of biological sciences (biochemistry, biotechnology, botany, environmental biology, genetics, medical biology, microbiology, physiology, zoology, agrobiology, etc.). Languages: Ukrainian or English, with Abstracts in both Ukrainian and English. Publication Fee: Publication in the journal Біологічні студії / Studia Biologica is free of charge! Open Access Policy: Біологічні студії / Studia Biologica adopts a platinum open access policy to published content in accordance with the principle of free dissemination of scientific information and global exchange of knowledge for common civil progress (http://www.budapestopenaccessinitiative.org and Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0). Archiving: the full archive of the journal Біологічні студії / Studia Biologica is freely accessible without any restrictions in the National Library of Ukraine named after V. I. Vernadskyi and LOCKSS. The online archive is posted on the portal of the Ivan Franko National University of Lviv. We accept manuscript submissions for Issue 4, Vol. 20 scheduled for publication in December 2026. Please, pay attention to the changes in the requirements for Abstracts, Materials and Methods, and References. Word Template Indexing: <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=2ahUKEwjG5ay_z6PnAhXroosKHW-qAJIQFjAAegQIBhAB&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.irbis-nbuv.gov.ua%2Fcgi-bin%2Firbis_nbuv%2Fcgiirbis_64.exe%3FZ21ID%3D%26I21DBN%3DUJRN%26P21DBN%3DUJRN%26S21STN%3D1%26S21REF%3D10%26S21FMT%3Djuu_all%26C21COM%3DS%26S21CNR%3D20%26S21P01%3D0%26S21P02%3D0%26S21P03%3DPREF%3D%26S21COLORTERMS%3D0%26S21STR%3Dbist&usg=AOvVaw2iQ7y3NY32Or_0Q3ou6el3" target="_blank">Scientific Periodicals of Ukraine Scopus DOAJ ROAD CROSSREF WorldCat Google Scholar Index Copernicus Open Ukrainian Citation Index (OUCI) Scilit Dimensions Ukrainian Reference Journal “Dzherelo” Link: URL: publications.ln ... Title DOI: doi.org/10.3097 ... UKRINTEI: http://nfv.ukrintei.ua Google: www.google.com/ ... Bing: www.bing.com/se ... Yahoo: search.yahoo.co ... EBSCO SOLO (Search Oxford Libraries Online) iDiscover (University of Cambridge) British Library Library Hub Discover
Львівський національний університет імені Івана Франка
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CHANGES IN SPONTANEOUS CONTRACTILE ACTIVITY OF SMOOTH MUSCLES IN THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT OF RATS UNDER LONG-TERM INTAKE OF A MIXTURE OF POLYPROPYLENE NANOPARTICLES AND MICROPARTICLES
Background. Plastic is the most common pollutant in the environment. In natural conditions, plastic undergoes mechanical and photochemical degradation, forming micro- and nanoparticles that are accumulated by living organisms. Regular intake of plastic micro- and nanoparticles (MNP) in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) leads to the development of inflammatory processes in the alimentary canal walls and disrupts intestinal microbiota. However, the contractile activity of smooth muscles in the GIT under these conditions is yet to be studied. The aim of the study was to investigate the spontaneous contractile activity of circular smooth muscles of the antrum and caecum of rats under long-term peroral intake of MNP of one of the most common plastic pollutants for the environment, polypropylene (PP). Materials and Methods. The suspension of polypropylene particles was prepared using disposable dishes by Roursgaard’s method with slight modifications. The determination of the average hydrodynamic diameter of PP particles in the aqueous suspension involved the method of dynamic light scattering. The animals in the experimental group received the PP suspension in their drinking water (at a daily dose of 2.5 mg/kg) for 6 weeks. The tenzometric experiments were conducted in the isometric mode of registration, using isolated circular smooth muscle preparations from the antrum and caecum of rats. The spontaneous contractions were analyzed by mechanokinetic analysis with the estimation of force, time, velocity, and impulse parameters. Results. The polypropylene suspension contained particles of up to 4 µm, 34.1 % of which were < 1 µm. Long-term peroral intake of PP into the organism was accompanied by the impairment of the spontaneous contractile activity of smooth muscles in the antrum and caecum: a decrease in the frequency and modulation of mechanokinetic parameters of some contractions. In case of the antrum muscles, there was an increase in force and velocity parameters, time parameters were below the control ones, while the impulse parameters remained unchanged. Under the effect of PP, the mechanokinetic parameters of contractions in the caecum demonstrated the following changes: there was a considerable increase in force parameters for the amplitude and phase of contraction, as well as all the time and impulse parameters, whereas velocity parameters were considerably decreased. Conclusions. Prolonged intake of polypropylene MNP into the organism causes changes in the frequency of spontaneous smooth muscles contractions, likely due to impaired functioning of pacemaker cells; whereas changes in amplitude parameters are likely due to MNP’s action on smooth muscle cells.
Copyright (c) 2026 Maria Shulha, Oleksandr Chunikhin, Volodymyr Malyshev, Andrij Sybirnyy, Oleksandr Savchenko, Sergij Mandryk, Khrystyna Sholota, Oleksandr Artemenko, Olga Tsymbalyuk http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
NUTRITIONAL ASSESSMENT AND LIPID PROFILE IN RATS FED A DIET SUPPLEMENTED WITH SUNFLOWER OIL AND COCONUT OIL
Background. Coconut oil is traditionally recognized for its potential health benefits, particularly in metabolic regulation. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a high-fat diet supplemented with coconut oil (CO) compared with sunflower oil (SO) on body weight, food intake, and plasma biochemical parameters in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods. Fifteen male Wistar rats (≈80 g) were divided into three groups: D1 (16% casein + 8% SO), D2 (16% casein + 32% SO), and D3 (16% casein + 28% SO + 4% CO). After two months, plasma glucose, total protein, albumin, triglyceri­des, total cholesterol, HDL, and LDL were analyzed using enzymatic assay kits. Results. Rats fed the coconut oil–supplemented diet (D3) showed significantly lower blood glucose, triglyceride, and total cholesterol levels, along with a notable increase in HDL cholesterol, compared with the control groups. Moreover, body weight gain and food intake were markedly reduced in the coconut oil group. Conclusion. These findings demonstrate that coconut oil supplementation exerts beneficial effects on lipid metabolism and weight regulation, suggesting its potential role as a functional dietary fat for managing obesity and metabolic disorders.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sidi-Mohammed Yazit, Zoubida Soualem-Mami, Radjaa-Kaouthar Meziane, Daoudi Chabane-Sari http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
GENETIC STRUCTURE OF A COLLECTION OF SOYBEAN ACCESSIONS OF DIFFERENT GEOGRAPHICAL ORIGIN BASED ON SSR LOCI POLYMORPHISM
Background. Assessment of genetic diversity and genetic structure is essential for effective soybean breeding and conservation of genetic resources. The present study aimed to evaluate the genetic variability of 29 soybean accessions originating from six countries using nine microsatellite (SSR) loci. Materials and Methods. The collection included cultivars developed in Ukraine and introduced genotypes from Canada, Austria, France, Germany, and Serbia. Each accession was represented by a single bulk DNA sample composed of embryonic root segments from 30 seeds. Nine SSR markers recommended by the NY/T 2595-2014 standard were amplified. Genetic diversity parameters were estimated using Nei’s genetic diversity index, and genetic grouping was inferred using Bayesian clustering implemented in STRUCTURE software. Results and Discussion. Eight of the nine loci were polymorphic, yielding a total of 18 alleles with an average of 2.0 alleles per locus. Nei’s genetic diversity index (He) ranged from 0.07 to 0.51 (mean 0.26). Pairwise genetic distances varied from 0.0002 to 0.0499. No identical multilocus SSR profiles were detected among the loci analyzed. Bayesian clustering analysis revealed three major genetic groups (K = 3). Twenty-five accessions were assigned to the “pure” group (Q ≥ 0.80), whereas four exhibited admixed genetic structure (Q < 0.80). Conclusions. The results confirm the suitability of SSR markers for cultivar differentiation, assessment of genetic diversity, and analysis of genetic grouping within soybean collections. Partial correspondence between clusters and geographical origin suggests shared breeding history and germplasm exchange. The obtained data may support breeding program optimization and conservation of soybean genetic resources.
Copyright (c) 2026 Pavlo Chernyshenko, Halyna Chernyshenko, Olga Bezugla, Tetiana Shelyakina http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ALTERNARIA ALTERNATA AS THE MAJOR FUNGAL ALLERGEN: MOLECULAR ANALYSIS OF FUNGAL SENSITIZATION PATTERNS
Background. Among the agents causing respiratory and skin pathologies, fungal allergens play a significant role. The epidemiological situation regarding fungal sensitization in Ukraine, specifically in the Vinnytsia region, remains insufficiently studied. Conversely, its characteristics, defined at both the individual and population levels, may contribute to understanding patterns relevant to prevention of fungal allergy. The aim of our study was to evaluate the prevalence and analyze the sensitivity profiles to fungal allergens among residents of the Vinnytsia region. Materials and Methods. We analyzed sensitization profiles to 13 fungal allergens in 2,623 residents of the Vinnytsia region using the ALEX multicomponent test. We considered sIgE levels for major molecules and extracts of Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Malassezia, Penicillium, and Saccharomyces (sensitivity threshold ≥ 0.31 kU/L). We examined the overall prevalence and isolated sensitization cases. Statistical analysis utilized non-parametric methods (Mann–Whitney U-test, χ² with Yates’ correction, p < 0.05) in Statistica 8.0 and MS Excel. Results. The overall prevalence of sensitization to fungal allergens was 9.57 %, and it was 1.85 times more common in children. The leading allergen was Alternaria alternata (Alt a 1), with sensitivity observed in 70.12 % of patients sensitized to fungal components. Among children, 82.93 % were sensitized to Alt a 1 alone. The mediansIgE value for Alt a 1 in children (25.64 kU/L) was significantly higher than in adults (7.87 kU/L) and was the highest among sIgE levels for all fungal components. Aspergillus fumigatus allergens (Asp f 1, Asp f 6) did not show isolated sensitization, which is consistent with their classification as secondary sensitizing agent, although their sIgE levels were substantial. Adults showed more frequent sensitization to Asp f 1 and Asp f 6, while sensitivity to Alt a 1 and Mala s 6 was more prominent in children. Conclusions. The obtained data confirm a high prevalence of fungal sensitization in the Vinnytsia region, particularly hypersensitivity to Alt a 1 among children. The identified age-related and immunological features of allergen sensitivity could contribute to the diagnosis and development of effective, personalized allergen-specific immunotherapy programs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Yana Reznik, Olga Dzekan, Victoria Rodinkova, Serhii Yuriev http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
CONTENT OF BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE COMPOUNDS AND ANTIOXIDANT CAPACITY OF BERRY FRUITS FROM ARONIA MELANOCARPA, PRUNUS SPINOSA, SAMBUCUS NIGRA AND RUBUS FRUTICOSUS
Background. Berries are a valuable source of minerals, vitamins, and phytochemicals in human nutrition. Due to the growing demand for organic food products enriched with biologically active compounds (BACs), there is a need to assess the levels of these substances in berries of various plant species and to develop optimal methods for processing raw berry materials that preserve their biological value. The aim of this study was to investigate the content of BACs (total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and ascorbic acid) and the antioxidant capacity of fresh and dried berry extracts and berry juices from bush plants distributed in the territory of Ukraine (chokeberry, blackthorn, elderberry, and blackberry). Materials and Methods. The study was conducted using berry fruits of Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliott (chokeberry), Prunus spinosa L. (blackthorn), Sambucus nigra L. (elderberry), and Rubus fruticosus L. (blackberry) growing in natural conditions in the Lviv region. The collecting of plant material, its preparation for analysis, as well as drying of berries, obtaining and pasteurization of berry juices were carried out following conventional methods. Berry extracts were prepared by 90 % ethanol extraction of fresh berries and water-ethanol extraction (in a 1:1 (v/v) ratio) of dry berries. The total content of phenolic compounds and the concentrations of anthocyanins, flavonoids, and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) were determined using generally accepted spectrophotometric methods. The antioxidant capacity of plant materials was assessed by spectrophotometric analysis using the stable free radical DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl). Statistical processing the obtained results was performed using a two-way ANOVA method. Results. Extracts of fresh berries from the studied plant species contained higher concentrations of total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and ascorbic acid than berry juices and extracts of dried berries, with the highest content of biologically active substances noted in fresh fruits from A. melanocarpa. In particular, chokeberry fruits contained phenolic compounds, anthocyanins, and flavonoids in concentrations of up to 1204 mg GAE (gallic acid equivalents), 643 mg C3GE (cyanidin-3-glucoside equivalents), and 490 mg of QE (quercetin equivalents) per 100 g of sample wet weight, respectively. Pasteurized berry juices had lower concentrations of the indicated compounds than fresh berry extracts, whereas dried berry extracts tended to contain higher concentrations of the mentioned biologically active substances compared to berry juices. Among the plant materials studied, the highest antioxidant capacity measured by the DPPH radical absorption method was found in extracts of fresh chokeberries (93 %), whereas fresh berries of P. spinosa, S. nigra, and R. fruticosus plants showed significantly lower antioxidant potential (83 %, 85 %, and 82 %, respectively). For most of the analyzed parameters (except for the concentration of ascorbic acid), a stable pattern of preservation of biologically active substances in plant materials was observed in descending order: fresh berry extract > dried berry extract > berry juice, which confirmed the advantage of the extraction method compared to direct pressing and juicing for obtaining high levels of biologically active compounds in berry products. At the same time, the obtained results show that both the species characteristics of the berries and the method of their treatment significantly determine the antioxidant profile of berry products. Conclusions. Analysis of the concentrations of total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, anthocyanins and ascorbic acid found in the berries of A. melanocarpa, P. spinosa, S. nigra, and R. fruticosus suggests that the fruits of these species are promising sources of natural antioxidants in human nutrition. However, the berry treatment regime significantly affects the content of biologically active substances in berry juices and extracts. The obtained results can be applied in the food industry for the development of functional products with improved antioxidant properties.
Copyright (c) 2026 Bohdan Krektun, Yustyna Zhylishchych, Halyna Antonyak, Myroslav Bomba, Larysa Fedyna, Ihor Pandyak, Nazar Zhygal http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
PHYTOCHEMICAL AND ANTIMICROBIAL STUDIES OF AN INTRODUCED AMPELOPSIS BREVIPEDUNCULATA (MAXIM.) TRAUTV.
Background. Ampelopsis brevipedunculata (Maxim.) Trautv (AB) is recognized for its potential in the treatment of hepatotoxic conditions, atopic dermatitis, and skin inflammation, which may be due to the synergism of certain bioactive compounds. The aim was to evaluate the ability of AB leaf extracts as antimicrobial agents against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Candida parapsilosis, and to improve the understan­ding of the influence of polyphenols, flavonoids, hydroxycinnamic acids, carotenoids, and chlorophylls in their composition on antimicrobial activity. Methods. The AB leaf aqueous ethanol (AE) extracts were obtained using the reflux condition and maceration methods. Spectrophotometric analysis was used for the calculation of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and hydroxycinnamic acids total content, chlorophyll, and carotenoids content in the extracts. The antimicrobial activity of the extracts of AB (ABEs) were assessed by the agar diffusion method. Results. Distilled water, 20 %, 60 % AE, and 96 % E provided high extraction of polyphenols by both methods, and 96 % Е for carotenoids and chlorophylls. E. coli and C. parapsilosis were not sensitive to the aqueous extract and the extract prepared with 20 % AE by maceration. At the same time, ABEs prepared with 60 % AE and 96 % Е had a certain inhibitory effect on E. coli and C. parapsilosis. B. subtilis was inhibited by the aqueous extract. Correlation analysis confirmed the relationships between the studied biological active substances and the diameter of the growth inhibition zones of the tested cultures. Two-factor analysis of variance confirmed the reliability of the proportions of the influence on the zones of inhibition of the studied cultures in the control and ABEs when using the maceration method, as well as ABEs obtained when using 20 % АЕ. Conclusion. ABEs are a rich and diverse source of biochemicals that have inhibitory effects against E. coli, B. subtilis, and C. parapsilosis. ABEs can be used as a rich source of phenols, flavonoids, hydroxycinnamic acids, chlorophylls and carotenoids for further research, and use as antimicrobial agents.
Copyright (c) 2026 Halyna Yavorska, Nataliya Vorobets http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
RESULTS OF LARGE MAMMAL MONITORING IN THE ROZTOCHYA NATURE RESERVE OVER 40 YEARS OF OBSERVATIONS, 1984–2025
Background. Long-term wildlife monitoring is crucial for understanding population dynamics and informing conservation strategies. This study presents a 40-year analysis of large mammal communities in the Roztochya Nature Reserve (Western Ukraine). The study period covers two distinct methodological approaches: traditional surveys (1984–2019), which yielded data with significant limitations for quantitative analysis, and modern camera trap monitoring initiated in 2020 to overcome these shortcomings and provide objective, verifiable data on the region’s fauna. Materials and Methods. Historical data from 1984–2019, collected via transect counts and track surveys, were critically reviewed. From 2020 to mid-2025, a systematic camera trap survey was implemented, with the network expanding from 4 to 20 devices. Analysis focused on species composition, detection frequencies, and seasonal activity patterns. We calculated a relative abundance index to assess recent population trends and compared the effectiveness of the two monitoring approaches. Results. The camera trap monitoring yielded over 2000 detection days for 13 mammal species. The European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) was the most frequent species (~53.4 %), followed by the red fox (Vulpes vulpes, ~18 %) and the wild boar (Sus scrofa, ~10 %). A significant increase in detections was observed for roe deer and wild boar in 2023–2024. A key finding was the confirmation of the European wildcat’s (Felis silvestris) regular presence since 2024, changing its status from extremely rare to a permanent resident. The transient status of the grey wolf (Canis lupus) was also confirmed. Conclusions. The transition to camera trapping provides a more accurate assessment of the mammal community, proving highly effective for detecting rare and elusive species. These results allow for a critical revision of the conservation status of several key species, most notably the European wildcat. The study underscores the importance of the Roztochya Nature Reserve as a key refugium and ecological corridor, with population dynamics likely influenced by recent nationwide changes in hunting management.
Copyright (c) 2026 Yurii Strus, Vasylyna Strus, Ihor Dykyy, Antonina Tarasova http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
BIODIVERSITY AND THE STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF RIVER BIRD COMMUNITIES OF MONTANE AND LOWLAND ZAKARPATTIA IN THE BREEDING SEASON
Background. The species and taxonomic diversity of biotic communities are directly related to changes in the environment. The more diverse an ecosystem is in terms of its biotic and abiotic components, the more complex are its functional structure and the relationships between species and habitats. The restoration of species and taxonomic diversity in ecosystems affected by anthropogenic impacts of varying intensity takes place under different scenarios. This is illustrated by the analysis of the structural and functional characteristics of bird communities in montane and lowland river ecosystems in Zakarpattia. The key component of these bird communities is the ecological group of wetland species, which was analysed by the number and abundance of species, and changes of species composition in the past 100 years. Materials and Methods. The bird communities of the middle course of the montane Uzh River and of the lowland Botar River were analysed in 1994–2002 and 2016–2020, and in 2014–2015, respectively, in the breeding season (April–June). Birds were counted during route surveys. The width of the survey stripes was 100 m (50 m on both sides of the route). A 13 km-long section of the middle course of the Uzh River was exami­ned in two different habitats: 7 km in natural and 6 km in urbanised areas. Additionally, a 17 km-long lowland section of the Botar River was studied, which included channelised parts and riverbed ponds as well as 6 km of the preserved natural riverbed and floodplain. In total, a 308 km-long route was surveyed. For statistical analysis of data obtained during the study of birds on the Uzh and Botar Rivers, Pearson’s chi-squa­red test was used. Calculations were performed using Microsoft Excel. Results and Discussion. During the breeding season, 81 bird species (of 65 gene­ra, 35 families, and 14 orders) were recorded in the valley of the middle Uzh River, and 81 species (of 58 genera, 33 families, and 15 orders) in the lowland course of the Botar River. The structural and functional characteristics of the bird communities of both rivers are reflected in the proportion, population density, and presence status (resident or migratory) of each species, in the combination of ecological groups, and in the trophic and spatial structure of the community. All of these parameters depend on the diversity of habitats in these river ecosystems and characterise the carrying capacity of the environment. In terms of ecological groups, the bird community of the middle Uzh is dominated by forest species, both in species richness (45.7 %) and density of individuals per km2 (52.6 %). Wetland (17.3 %) and forest-steppe species (18.5 %) are also well represented. Species of anthropogenic landscapes, in addition to forest species, also have a relatively high population density (21.7 %). Within the lowland part of the Botar River, the bird community is dominated by forest and wetland species (32 % and 29.6 %, respectively), but the highest population density is characteristic of forest-steppe species (32.6 %), followed by forest and wetland species (27 % and 18.6 %, respectively). Birds of anthropogenic landscapes are the least represented by both species richness (6.2 %) and population density (7.6 %). Despite the dramatic transformation of the Botar River in the twentieth century due to the creation of an irrigation system, wetland bird species, compared to the Uzh River, have a significant proportion by both their number and density. This is due to the specific structural features of habitats and ecological niches of the montane and lowland river ecosystems. The difference in living conditions between the mountain river and the lowland river is significant for wetland bird species (χ² = 5,2; p <0.05 ). With regard to spatial distribution, the dominant group in the bird community of the middle Uzh is the hollow-nesting species (26.5%), followed by tree-nesting and ground-nesting species (23.5 % each). Hollow-nesting species also predominate by population density (32.1 %), whereas urban-nesting birds are sub-dominants (21.8 %). In contrast, the bird community of the lowland Botar River is dominated by ground-nesting species (35.3 %), although the proportion of tree- (23.5% ) and shrub-nesting (19.1 %) species is also relatively high. In terms of population density, the dominant species are hollow-nesting (34.1 %), whereas the sub-dominants are ground-nesting (31.4 %). In terms of trophic specialisation, the bird community of the Uzh River is dominated by carnivores both by species richness (65.4 %) and population density (48.4 %). In the bird community of the Botar River, however, carnivores notably dominate by species composition (70.3 %), but omnivores dominate by population density (50.6 %). Ground-nesting carnivores and omnivores make up a significant proportion of wetland bird species, the functional role of which is clearly noticeable in this community. The bird community in the middle Uzh River is dominated by forest-dwelling hollow-nesting carnivores, which inhabit the strip of riverine willow and poplar forests. Conclusion. The analysis of the structural and functional characteristics of bird communities in the montane and lowland river ecosystems of Zakarpattia, which in the twentieth century underwent anthropogenic transformation to varying degrees, illustrates the main differences between these ecosystems. Anthropogenic impacts associated with the drainage and loss of much of the natural floodplain of both rivers led to a decline in the species diversity of wetland birds. However, the compensation for the loss of bird diversity of the two rivers occurred under different scenarios. These differences lie in habitat conditions, carrying capacity, and the previous history of species diversity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Oksana Stankiewicz-Volosianchuk http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
AQUATIC VEGETATION IN THE SYRA POGONIA MASSIF, RIVNENSKYI NATURE RESERVE (POLISSIA, UKRAINE): CLASSIFICATION AND ECOLOGICAL SPECIFICITY
Background. Aquatic vegetation is a sensitive indicator of wetland ecosystem conditions, particularly peat bogs. In the Syra Pogonia protected area, vegetation reflects the effects of past anthropogenic impacts (land reclamation). Given the current climate change and hydrological instability, a detailed study of aquatic vegetation is necessary. Such research helps assess the current state of phytocoenoses and supports evidence-based conservation and restoration efforts under changing environmental conditions. Materials and Methods. The study applied the phytosociological method of J. Braun-Blanquet using 14 geobotanical relevés. Data analysis involved TURBOVEG, JUICE, and RStudio. Plant communities (syntaxa) were identified via indicator species analysis with the fidelity coefficient (phi). Ecological gradients and vegetation–environment relationships were examined using PCA and NMDS. Results. The aquatic vegetation segment of the Syra Pogonia massif was studied, and the floristic structure of the inundated localities was analyzed using cluster analysis methods. Based on 14 geobotanical relevés, three associations were delineated, belonging to different classes of aquatic vegetation (Lemnetea, Potamogetonetea, Littorelletea). The results indicate ecological and syntaxonomic diversity among the aquatic communities formed under the influence of trophic status, acidity, and changes in the hydrological regime of the environment. Clear ecological gradients were revealed that divide the aquatic vegetation into three groups: oligotrophic, mesotrophic, and eutrophic communities. Conclusions. The identified aquatic vegetation communities exhibit a distinct ecological specialization and a narrow affinity to specific ecotopes, shaped by abiotic environmental factors. Their spatial segregation highlights a strong indicative potential, making these communities valuable tools for biomonitoring and assessing the condition of wetland ecosystems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ivan Danylyk, Iryna Rabyk, Oleksandr Kuzyarin, Mariia Yuskovets http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
IDENTIFICATION OF VIRGIN AND QUASI-VIRGIN FORESTS IN THE UZHANSKYI NATIONAL NATURE PARK
Background. Modern anthropogenic activities have significantly contributed to the decrease of primeval, quasi-primeval, and old-growth forests worldwide and in Europe in particular, leading to catastrophic changes. Such forests are key reservoirs of floral and faunal diversity and play a crucial role in climate regulation. This study is dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity in forest ecosystems of the Carpathian region of Ukraine through the identification of primeval and quasi-primeval forests within the Kostryna Nature Conservation and Research Department (NCRD) of the Uzhanskyi National Nature Park in Zakarpattia Oblast (Ukraine). Materials and Methods. The affiliation of specific natural forest tracts in the Carpathians was determined based on desk and field research. Results. The most significant forest areas were found to be natural habitats of Fagus sylvatica L. stands with admixtures of Quercus petraea L., Acer pseudoplatanus L., Ulmus glabra Huds., and Carpinus betulus L. It was found that the species composition of admixtures in beech forests is significantly influenced by vertical zonation and associated soil conditions. On the southern peaks and slopes of Mount Knyahynitsa, within the altitudes of 400–600 m above sea level, the presence of pure beech forests was noted, which is associated with optimally favorable climatic and soil conditions for the growth and deve­lopment of endemic species. Conclusions. Within the studied areas (Domashinsky Verkh Mountain and Knyagynitsa Mountain), 36 inventory points of primeval forest systems were identified, totaling 1,075 ha, along with 3 quasi-primeval ecosystems, each covering 8.6 ha. The need to designate them separately is indicated by the exclusively natural origin of old-growth (156–196 years) stands of F. sylvatica, Q. petraea, C. betulus, A. pseudoplatanus, and U. glabra. These primeval and quasi-primeval forest ecosystems are characterized by complex horizontal and vertical structures with the presence of three and four layers. The studied forest ecosystems belong to the first site quality class, highlighting their ecological importance for biodiversity conservation, soil erosion prevention, soil environment restoration, and maintaining ecological balance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Oleksandr Yarosh, Liudmyla Roman, Larysa Krulko, Stepan Milyovich http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ANALYSIS OF THE SPONTANEOUS FLORA OF THE TROSTIANETS DENDROLOGICAL PARK (CHERNIHIV OBLAST, UKRAINE)
Background. Trostianets Dendrological Park of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, founded in the nineteenth century in Chernihiv Oblast and now within Ichnianskyi National Nature Park, combines historic plantations with distinct forest-meadow sites. It provides a workable model for assessing how long-term introductions, climate change, and recreation pressure reshape spontaneous floras of the Left-Bank Forest-Steppe. Materials and Methods. In 2022–2024, we inventoried all wild vascular plants. For each taxon, we noted native or alien status, geographical element (Kleopov, 1990), life form (Clements, 1920; Raunkiaer, 1934), vegetation class (EuroVegChecklist), and CSR strategy. Results and Discussion. The inventory lists 423 species in 73 families, among which native plants (70.92 %) dominate. The geographical spectrum is dominated by widespread species (58.66 %), which are generally more anthropotolerant, while among zonal geoelements, species with “northern” (21.0 %) and “southern” (20.34 %) distribution types are nearly equally represented. Alien plants hail mainly from America (30.1 %) – almost all of them from North America – as well as from Asia and the Mediterranean (24.4 % each). In the biomorphological structure, perennial herbs prevail among native plants (66.3%), while short-lived herbs dominate among alien plants (38.2 %). Native plants richness peaks in Molinio-Arrhenatheretea, Carpino-Fagetea, and Trifolio-Geranietea, while alien plants cluster in Robinietea, Rhamno-Prunetea, and Sisymbrietea. Violents dominate both fractions (47.8 % natives, 43.4 % aliens); ISR reveals only a slight excess of stress-tolerators among natives and ruderals among aliens, confirming strong anthropogenic pressure. Conclusion. Trostianets Dendrological Park hosts a rich, anthropotolerant spontaneous flora that preserves a forest-steppe core while harbouring many naturalised introduced plants, mainly woody ergasiophygophytes (69.74 % among alien plants). Its balanced yet distorted geographical profile and near-equal stress-tolerant/ruderal ratios form a baseline for tracking vegetation change in historical parks and justify measures to curb further alien spread and maintain meadow–forest mosaics.
Copyright (c) 2026 Maryna Tarabun, Oleksandr Shynder, Vitaliy Kolomiychuk, Ihor Goncharenko http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
METHODOLOGY FOR CARBON CREDIT CALCULATION IN THE CONTEXT OF UKRAINE AND RESULTS OF ITS APPLICATION IN DREVLYANSKYI NATURE RESERVE (ZHYTOMYR REGION)
Background. In Ukraine, 2.13 million hectares of peat bogs have been drained (Balashev et al., 1982). The drained areas are partly used as arable lands, hayfields, pastures for livestock, and peat extraction sites. However, a significant part of the drained land is currently not in use; the dual-regulation drainage systems have been partially destroyed, their maintenance has ceased, and they continue to drain the peatland. As a result, the vegetation in such areas is at various stages of degradation. This situation has created a social demand for the restoration – “rewetting” – of the drained peatlands, which are natural sinks of greenhouse gases (CO2 and CH4), effective regulators of annual water runoff in hydraulically connected rivers, and habitats for specific peatland flora and fauna, including rare and protected species. Restoring a peatland to a condition close to its natural state, however, is a complex, multi-stage task requi­ring an integrated approach and scientific research conducted according to a speciali­zed methodology, which is currently lacking in Ukraine. Furthermore, based on the GEST approach, restored peatland areas may qualify for carbon credits from authorized foreign companies, depending on the success of the restoration efforts. Credits are issued on the basis of scientific calculations that must determine the balance difference between greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 and CH4) from the peat of the drained bog and those from the restored site after the groundwater level has been raised. Such a methodology does not yet exist in Ukraine, despite its high relevance. The methodology for carbon credit calculation for Ukraine was developed in 2025 within the framework of the project “Peatland Restoration in Drevlyanskyi Nature Reserve”, implemented in the peatland floodplain of the Zvizdal’ River within the Drevlyanskyi Nature Reserve by the non-profit conservation organization the “Ukrainian Society for the Protection of Birds”, with financial support from Materialise company (Belgium). Preliminary investigations of the Zvizdal’ bog massif (landscapes, soil cover, flora and vegetation, fauna) were carried out in 2023. The key reference document on which the Ukrainian methodology is based on: H. Joosten, K. Brust, J. Couwenberg, A. Gerner, B. Holsten, T. Permien, A. Schäfer, F. Tanneberger, M. Trepel, A. Wahren (2015). MoorFutures®. Integration of additional ecosystem services (including biodiversity) into carbon credits – standard, methodo­logy and transferability to other regions. 120 p. BfN-Skripten 407, Bonn. Moor Futures: Integration of additional ecosystem services (bfn.de). The objectives of this publication are to: (1) develop a methodology for calculating carbon credits for a specific peatland massif; (2) describe the stages of scientific work, their content, and the specialized methods required; (3) provide reference materials important for practical application of the methodology (List of GESTs for Ukrainian peat bogs considering vegetation, groundwater levels, and annual greenhouse gas emissions); (4) present an example of carbon credit calculation for a specific drained peat bog (the Zvizdal’ massif, Drevlyanskyi Nature Reserve, Zhytomyr Region). Results.The outcome of this publication is the creation of an integrated methodo­logy for carbon credit calculation adapted to specific conditions in Ukraine. The methodo­logy consists of five chapters that provide a step-by-step description of the workflow: 1. Formation of the Baseline Data Package. This chapter includes the following subchapters: Brief Description of Input Information; Field Studies (Assessment of Vegetation Cover; Assessment of Peat Deposits; Peat Sampling for Agrochemical Analysis; Determination of Groundwater Level); Office/Laboratory Processing of Collected Data (Processing of Vegetation Cover Data; Determination of Groundwater Level Range and Peat Moisture Class; Agrochemical Analysis of Peat Samples; Creation of Cartographic Materials). 2. Carbon Credit Calculations. The chapter includes the following subchapters: Baseline Calculation; Predictive Calculation for Spontaneous Development of Anthropogenically Transformed Vegetation; Predictive Calculation after Rewetting of the Peatland according to Scenario I and Scenario II. 3. Monitoring. 4. Calculation of greenhouse gas emission reduction potential. 5. Obtained Results. The chapter summarizes the values of greenhouse gas emissions under the current ecosystem state and under Scenario I and Scenario II, and clarifies the values of the greenhouse gas emission reduction potential. Other important results of this work are presented in Appendix I and Appendix II, which provide a detailed example of calculating the greenhouse gas emission reduction potential for a specific drained peatland (the Zvizdal’ massif, Drevlyanskyi Nature Reserve, Zhytomyr Region). Conclusion 1. The developed methodology complies with the modern standard for calculation of carbon credits (Verra, 2024). 2. The methodology includes all recommended blocks on the basis of which the values of global warming potential can be calculated (Haxtema, 2014; Handbook for Assessment…, 2022). 3. The results of calculations testify that on the projective area (115.2 ha) of the Zvizdal’ bog massif, under the Baseline Scenario, without restoration, the value of global warming potential (GWP) equals 4563.82 t CO2 eq./year. 4. To achieve the goal of raising the groundwater level to the project-designated levels (-20 cm and -30 cm), it is necessary to construct semi-dams from natural materials on drainage canals, in accordance with the technical project. 5. The results of calculations show that after restoration, according to Scenario I, with the rise in groundwater level to -30 cm, the value of the global warming potential (GWP) will equal 1403.2 t CO2 eq./year; and under Scenario II, with the rise in groundwater level to -20 cm, the value of GWP will be essentially lower and will equal 361.58 t CO2 eq./year. 6. The greenhouse gas reduction potential for Scenario I is 3160.6 t CO2 eq./year, and for Scenario II – 4202.2 t CO2 eq./year.
Copyright (c) 2026 Oleksandr Orlov http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0