Impact of hoofed game and weather on the vegetation of endangered dry grasslands in the Křivoklátsko Biosphere Reserve (Czech Republic)

摘要: Using four exclosures, the impact of mouflon grazing and weather on plant communities phytosociological alliances Koelerio-Phleion phleoidis Hyperico perforati-Scleranthion perennis occurring shallow soils within a forest landscape was studied in Křivoklatsko Biosphere Reserve (Czech Republic) during seven years. In years 2004–2010, vascular species composition recorded annually total eight fenced control plots, each 2 m × 1 size. Treatment, time, data were used as explanatory variables ordination correlation analyses. Cover values different life forms indicator varied significantly dependence conditions preceding five months; however, correlations according to vegetation type rather rarely detected. The effect fencing appeared important all study plots; temporal trends significant only half them. We did not find interaction between treatment time dataset. A successional change detected one plot only; other cases, fluctuated – phenomenon that is directly attributable conditions. herbaceous cover decreased, mainly due litter accumulation partly shrub encroachment. At least some parts valuable species-rich habitats could be maintained under high game density, but are endangered by eutrophication grazing. Nature conservation management should balance both mechanisms.