Diversity of Epipactis palustris (L.) Crantz (Orchidaceae) pollinators and visitors in conditions of Kyiv city (Ukraine)

Abstract Epipactis palustris (L.) Crantz is a protected species in Ukraine. In order to organize optimal protection measures comprehensive studies of various aspects of its biology are necessary. The aim of this study was to determine the pollinators and visitors of E. palustris. The study was conducted in Kyiv city (Ukraine) between 2020 and 2022. The research focused on arthropod visitors in two human-made populations. Specimens of 31 families and 48 genera from 9 arthropod orders were identified and established. The greatest number of species represented Hymenoptera, Coleoptera and Diptera. Evaluation of visitor activity show that Hymenoptera were the most frequent visitors. E. palustris in the conditions of Kyiv is mainly characterized by entomophily. Halictidae, Apidae and Coccinellidae played an important role in E. palustris pollination. It was found that populations of E. palustris in the conditions of the Kyiv city form a unique self-regulating biocenosis that provides shelter and food for 53 identified species of arthropods.