Vitality structure of the endemic Oxytropis kungurensis Knjasev (Fabaceae) coenopopulation on the eastern shore of Lake Aushkul (Republic of Bashkortostan)

Abstract

Consideration is given to biometric indices and vitality structure of Oxytropis kungurensis Knjasev (Fabaceae), an endemic species of the South Urals and Central Cis-Ural Region, observed in 2015 and 2016 in the coenopopulation on the eastern shore of Lake Aushkul (Uchalinsky District, Republic of Bashkortostan, Russia). The paper reveals differences in plant biometrics and vitality according to the years of observation. Judging from 14 biometric indices out of 19 indices analyzed, middle-aged generative plants in 2015 surpass those in 2016. Indices that characterize the vitality structure are higher in 2015. The vitality type of the coenopopulation varies from prospering to depressive. Variations in biometric and vitality indices are associated with changing weather conditions during the vegetation period. In 2015, there were optimal conditions for plants to grow and develop.