The Influence of Eurasian Beaver (Castor fiber L.) Activity on the Transformation and Functioning of Riparian Phytocoenoses in the Southern Boreal Zone (European Russia)

The reintroduction of Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber L.) results in significant changes ecosystems. purpose this study is to assess the impact environment-forming activity C. on riparian phytocoenoses Raifa forest sector Volga-Kama State Nature Biosphere Reserve (Middle Volga region, European Russia) after reintroduction. Phytoindication methods ecological–coenotic groups and indicator values were used environmental conditions under influence activity. factor increase moisture regime (by three points according Tsyganov values) illumination habitats, richness soils nitrogen, acidity salt one point) was revealed. Under fodder construction activities beaver, an proportion aquatic wetland from 10.2% 28.2% boreal plant species 15.0% 27.6% detected. An expansive nature change degree landscape occupancy with plants noted. A decrease (3 2 points) distribution ruderal zones waterbodies reserve due Based phytoindication analyses, it shown that into responsible for maintaining necessary microclimatic preservation natural southern communities. obtained can be predictive assessment (small rivers lakes) communities ecosystems Middle region Russia other regions planet similar conditions.