A recent find of Ophrys insectifera (Orchidaceae) in Ukraine – will it survive another 100 years?

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Authors

ROLEČEK Jan

Year of publication 2021
Type Article in Periodical
Magazine / Source Ukrainian botanical journal
MU Faculty or unit

Faculty of Science

Citation
Web https://doi.org/10.15407/ukrbotj78.04.297
Doi http://dx.doi.org/10.15407/ukrbotj78.04.297
Keywords controlled burning; endangered species; habitat management; Opillia; plant distribution; succession; threats
Description Here I report the first find of Ophrys insectifera in Ukraine since 1920. A single individual was found at its last recorded site, Chortova Hora near Rohatyn (Ivano-Frankivsk Region). The species occurs in a steppe meadow habitat situated in the lower part of a steep northern slope. Local vegetation may be classified to a broadly circumscribed association Brachypodio pinnati-Molinietum arundinaceae from the alliance Cirsio-Brachypodion pinnati (class Festuco-Brometea). I discuss possible causes of the long-term neglect of O. insectifera at the site, its habitat conditions and suitable conservation management. To ensure the continued occurrence of this poor competitor and other rare species, it is necessary to prevent accumulation of litter and successional changes of the grassland. Mowing, low-intensity grazing, controlled early spring burning or their combination may be suitable ways to achieve this.
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