Ecological role of introduced species and autochthon plants in protective tree belts of South Siberia

Abstract

Assessment of the condition and morphological structure of tree species that constitute protective forest belts in southern Siberia has shown that plants perform ecological and economic functions under the most extreme conditions. The regions of Southern Siberia are characterized by a complex of negative environmental factors that have an adverse effect on the condition and growth of tree species of protective forest belts (soil conditions, lack of moisture, strong wind, salinization and deflation processes). Poplar and elm are used as introduced species in protective forest belts in South Siberia. Plants are characterized by intensive growth and average salt tolerance. Protective forest belts of autochthonous plant species (birch, pine, larch) have a more satisfactory condition compared to introduced species. However, poplar and elm grow in more difficult conditions (steppe areas of Khakassia), which determines their condition. In terms of growth intensity, as well as horizontal protection, introduced species largely exceed autochthonous plant species. Key words: protective forest belt, species, autochthonous plants, condition, morphological characterization