Floristic diversity of extensively used meadows of Beskid Sądecki. Part I

Abstract

The study aimed to assess floral diversity in extensively used permanent meadows of Beskid Sądecki. Floristic research was conducted in the years 2017–2019. In the sward of selected meadows, 169 species of vascular plants belonging to 110 genera and 33 botanical families were recognized. A distinction was made between Arrhenatherion elatioris, represented by the Gladiolo-Agrostietum capillaris syndrome, with the number of 128 taxa, and Calthion, part of the Cirsietum rivularis, with 74 species. Gladiolo-Agrostietum capillaris association had a higher biodiversity index than Cirsietum rivularis. Plants of both analyzed communities preferred moderate light and neutral soils. In the Cirsietum rivularis association, most plants with preferences for rich and moist soils were distinguished. In the Gladiolo-Agrostietum capillaris association, on the other hand, the highest number of taxa with preferences for moderately poor and fresh soils was found.