Changes in lichen cover composition on plateau palsas in Western Siberia under the impact of fires

Abstract

This paper presents a cumulative list of lichen species recorded in key undisturbed and fire-disturbed sites of plateau palsas located along the latitudinal gradient in the ecological conditions of the permafrost zone of Western Siberia. Data on changes in the structure of the lichen cover under the impact of fires that occurred 8, 17, and 36 years ago are provided. Analysis of field research materials and aerial images from unmanned aerial vehicles revealed significant changes in lichen biodiversity and the structure of the lichen cover. The greatest number of species was observed in the 36-year-old plateau palsas, yet the lichen cover has not fully recovered over the long post-fire period, and most of the area is covered by a dense crust of burned lichen.

Keywords

• ground lichens
• species composition
• projected cover