The Function of Siberian Fir In The Formation Of Forest Phytocoenoses In The Floodplain Landscapes of North-Eastern European Russia
Abstract Background The peculiarity of Siberian fir ( Abies sibirica Ledeb.) growth in the territory of the North-East of the European part of Russia is that its habitats are confined to certain types of landscapes, namely floodplains of streams and rivers, slopes, and watersheds. In the structure of plant communities formed in such areas, fir is generally the predominant species. The purpose of this study is to find out causes why fir tree have been successful in colonizing specific types of landscapes. The study was conducted in the Komi Republic, Russia. The objects of the study were chosen two forest phytocoenoses with fir dominance, one of which grows on a slope and the other — on a floodplain terrace. A comparative analysis of the complex of factors determining the growth and development of these forest communities was made.Results Orographic conditions have been recognized as the main factor determining the species structure of phytocoenoses in the considered landscape types. The relief features of the areas where the forest stands under consideration are located contribute to the development of periodic water flows that have a significant impact on the species structure formation. Comparison of morphological and phenological features of the main forest-forming species of the Komi Republic has shown that the fir has a number of advantages contributing to its success under the conditions of a specific hydrological regime. Conclusions The formation of spatial patterns with Siberian fir dominating on slopes and floodplains is a consequence of fir adaptability to the influence of periodic water flow due to the relief features.