Legumes in natural post-fire successions of forest meadows and pastures in Northern Bulgaria

Abstract

We have witnessed a drastic increase in global fires in recent years that are strongly linked to climate change. On the other hand, the prescribed fires are applied in agricultural practice; however, their effectiveness is controversial. It is important to study the effects of both types of fires – wild and prescribed to predict their impact on biota. In this study, four different locations in Central Norther Bulgaria that recovered after the fire were studied concerning the biodiversity and abundance of the first colonizer species. Two generations from the locations were studied and demonstrated that the legume plants are dominant. The abundant species and their morphological and physiological characteristics are described. The annual species like Bituminaria bituminosa, Vicia striata, and Medicago minima propagated with seeds and perennial rhizome Lathyrus pratensis and Trifolium medium show the best potential to resprout after the fire events. Presented results will help responsible authorities of our county to take adequate actions for burned areas recovery. The directions for future studies are highlighted. URL: https://www.upjs.sk/pracoviska/botanicka-zahrada/odborne-aktivity/contents-abstracts/