FLORISTIC AND ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF THE SAMARA FOREST COMPLEX IN THE STEPPE ZONE OF UKRAINE

Abstract

The article explores the ecological significance of the Samara Forest – a unique forested natural complex in the steppe zone of Northern Prydniprovia, Ukraine. This study assesses the floristic diversity, conservation value, and ecological integrity of the area based on field surveys, historical data, and remote sensing. The flora of the Samara Forest comprises a wide range of native plant species, totaling 1.154 vascular plant species across approximately 451 km², among which a significant number are rare or regionally protected. The high species richness is associated with habitat heterogeneity and the presence of ecotones between forest and steppe elements; floristic density in the region reaches 2.8 species per km², which is substantially higher than the average for the broader Dnipropetrovsk oblast (1.714 species over 31.900 km²; 0.05 species per km²). The results emphasize the urgent need for conservation and provide a scientific basis for assigning protected status to this area. The territory retains considerable ecological potential, supports important ecosystem services, and can play a key role in regional biodiversity preservation strategies. Establishing the Samarskyi Lis National Nature Park would ensure long-term protection of threatened species and ecosystems, under increasing anthropogenic and climatic pressures.