Impact of natural fires on the vegetation cover of steppe and forest-steppe zones (European part of Russia, Middle Volga region)

Abstract

The effect of natural fires on the vegetation cover of steppe and forest-steppe zones in the south-east of European Russia (the middle course of the Volga River) has been evaluated. The research used methods of studying biosystems at organism, species, population and cenotic levels. The study revealed the possibility of regrowth of aboveground plant parts after fires, changes in the population structure of species, and resistance of populations and zonal plant communities to the effects of natural fires. The most vulnerable among zonal vegetation types are pine forests, feather-grass and petrophytic steppes. Frequency, intensity and area of natural fires in the Middle Volga region cause significant changes in the structure of vegetation cover and reduction of biodiversity. The results obtained in the study of the impact of fires on vegetation can be used in the planning and implementation of environmental and reforestation measures.