bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flowering plants of Hedera helix L. in the Grunwald district of the city of Poznań
Authors: Korszun Stanisława , Bykowska Joanna
Published: April 2013

In the period from September 2008 to July 2009 in the Grunwald district in the city of Poznań, Poland, a total of 609 localities of flowering English ivy were recorded, for which 769 plants were described. These plants were found in different localities, most of them euhemerobic. The biggest number of flowering specimens was recorded in home gardens. Support for climbing plants was mainly provided by trees and shrubs, including fruit trees – pear and apple trees. Among the other tree species, the biggest group comprises Scots pine, common birch, European larch and common locust. Other types of supports included fences, buildings and elements of small architecture. A very high number of specimens in the generative stage in the Grunwald district indicates considerable popularity and at the same time very good adaptation of ivy not only to the climatic conditions of the city of Poznań, but also to anthropogenic changes in the habitat.
Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) flowering affected by foliar nitrogen application
Authors: Nurzyńska-Wierdak Renata
Published: April 2013

The aromatic and curative properties of basil are connected with the presence of essential oil, mainly in the leaves and flowers. Herb yield and the quality of basil oil are related to the effect of genetic, ontogenetic and environmental factors. In the studies conducted in the years 2008-2009, the effect of basil cultivar and foliar feeding upon selected flowering features was examined. In an unheated plastic tunnel, plants of Kasia, Wala, Genua Star and Opal cultivars were grown. Foliar feeding was done by the application of 0.5% urea solution or by spraying the plants with water. During harvest the characteristic features of flowering were determined, i.e. the number and length of inflorescences, as well as the number of verticils and flowers per inflorescence. A vast differentiation was demonstrated in flowering of sweet basil plants of the examined cultivars. The most inflorescences were formed by the plants of the Polish cultivar Kasia, compared to the remaining ones. The longest inflorescences with the highest number of flowers in the main inflorescence were found in 'Genua Star'. Foliar feeding of the plants with nitrogen caused a significant increase of inflorescence number, but it did not significantly affect the remaining features of basil flowering.
Effect of different pre-sowing tillage on quantity and quality of parsnip (Pastinaca sativa L.) root yield in ridge cultivation
Authors: Konopiński Mirosław , Nowak Lidia , Mitura Roman , Skiba Dorota
Published: April 2013

Parsnip is a very valuable vegetable due to its nutritional value and dietetic quality. It is moreover herbal raw material abundant in active substances. The yield quality of vegetables greatly depends on thorough pre-sowing soil tillage. The present study aimed at evaluating the influence of different presowing soil tillage (medium-deep ploughing, cultivating) and plant growing methods, flat or ridge cultivation, on the yield of parsnip and some biometric traits of its roots. The field experiment was carried out in 1999, 2000 and 2002 on lessive soil with the granulometric composition corresponding to medium silty loam. The parsnip cultivar 'Półdługi Biały' was the experimental plant species. The cultivation of parsnip on ridges had a significant influence on increased total yield of roots and decreased yield of small roots, as compared to flat cultivation. A significant increase in unit weight of the root and its diameter in the top part was also recorded in the latter type of cultivation. Spring pre-sowing tillage had no significant effect on parsnip yields. An increasing trend was observed only for total and marketable root yield in the ploughed plots. When parsnip is grown on lessive soil (which has an unstable structure), plants cultivated on ridges after spring pre-sowing plough are the most beneficial treatment combination.
Biometrical characteristics of R2 generation of anther-derived pepper (Capsicum spp.) plants
Authors: Kisiała Anna , Olszewska Dorota , Niklas-Nowak Aleksandra , Nowaczyk Paweł
Published: April 2013

Eight anther-derived DH lines of pepper hybrids: two red-fruited (AP14, AP15) and two yellow lines (AP25 and AP32) of C. annuum (ATZ1 × PO)F2, two lines of (C. frutescens × C. annuum)F1 (FA1, FA2), and two of (C. frutescens × C. chinense)F1 (FCH2, FCH3), were studied regarding important morphological plant and fruit characters. C. annuum breeding line 'ATZ1' was used as a standard. The following traits were evaluated: total fruit yield, fruit weight, weight of placenta with seeds, technological matter, pericarp thickness, extract content, dry matter content, weight and number of seeds per fruit. The level of homogeneity within the DH lines was analysed with a one-way analysis of variance, additionally the values of coefficient of variation (CV) were determined for the tested plant characters. The highest phenotypic uniformity was noted for the red-fruited lines obtained from anthers of (ATZ1 × PO)F2 and for the DH lines of (C. frutescens × C. annuum) F1, while the least uniform were FCH2 and FCH3 lines of (C. frutescens × C. chinense)F1. The DH lines AP14 and AP15, as well as FA1 and FA2 were phenotype homogeneous in respect of weight of fruit, technological matter, pericarp thickness and extract content. For these parameters, also the values of CV were the lowest. Statistically significant interline polymorphism between the androgenic lines of the same origin was detected among the lines of C. annuum (ATZ1 × PO)F2.
Fungi colonizing the soil and roots of tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill.) plants treated with biological control agents
Authors: Cwalina-Ambroziak Bożena , Nowak Maciej K.
Published: April 2013

Tomato plants, cv. Rumba Ożarowska, grown in the greenhouse of the University of Warmia and Mazury, were protected in the form of alternate spraying (twice) and watering (twice) with 5% aqueous extracts of the following plant species: Aloe vulgaris Lam., Achillea millefolium L., Mentha piperita L., Polygonum aviculare L., Equisetum arvense L., Juglans regia L. and Urtica dioica L. Plants not treated with the extracts served as control. After fruit harvest, samples of roots and soil were collected. The roots were disinfected and next placed on PDA medium. Soil-colonizing fungi were cultured on Martin medium. Fungi were identified microscopically after incubation. Pathogenic fungal species, Colletotrichum coccodes, Fusarium equiseti, F. oxysporum and F. poae, accounted for over 60% of all isolates obtained from the roots of tomato plants. The soil fungal community was dominated by yeast-like fungi (75.4%), whereas pathogenic fungi were present in low numbers. The applied 5% aqueous plant extracts effectively reduced the abundance of fungi, including pathogenic species, colonizing tomato plants and soil. The extract from P. aviculare showed the highest efficacy, while the extract from J. regia was least effective. Fungi showing antagonistic activity against pathogens (Paecilomyces roseum and species of the genus Trichoderma) were isolated in greatest abundance from the soil and the roots of tomato plants treated with A. millefolium, M. piperita and U. dioica extracts.
Segetal flora of the Wigry National Park
Authors: Skrajna Teresa , Kubicka Helena
Published: April 2013

Segetal flora of the Wigry National Park (Poland) was studied in the period 2008-2010 within an area occupied by 33 villages. The analysis was based on 195 phytosociological relevés taken in fields of cereal crops, root plants and in stubble fields. The total number of species recorded in agrocenoses was 181 and they represented 36 botanical families. The most numerous families were Asteraceae, Fabaceae and Brasicaceae. The segetal flora of the Wigry National Park included mostly native species of apophytes (53.6%) that predominated over anthropophytes. Among apophytes, meadow apophytes (35 species) and those from waterside habitats (26 species) were noted most often, archaeophytes (74 species) were predominant among anthropophytes, while epecophytes (9 species) and ergasiophytes (1 species) were much less abundant. Among the life forms analysed, therophytes (61.9%) predominated over hemicryptophytes (27.1%) and geophytes (11%). The number of short-lived species in the flora of this Park was much greater (68.5%) than that of perennial ones (31.5%). The flora of the Park included 31 rare species classified in different categories of threat. Among them, Centaurium pulchellum and Centaurium erythraea belong to fully protected species (Dz.U. (Polish Journal of Laws) 2004 No. 168, item 1764).
Comparison of features of the epidermis and the size of the floral nectary in four species of the genus Cotoneaster Med.
Authors: Chwil Mirosława , Weryszko-Chmielewska Elżbieta
Published: April 2013

The investigations involved four species of the Cotoneaster genus: C. divaricatus, C. horizontalis, C. lucidus, C. praecox, which are commonly grown for decorative purposes. In Poland, these plants bloom in May and June and are a source of abundant spring nectar flow for insects. The floral nectaries of the above-mentioned species were examined using stereoscopic, light, and scanning electron microscopy in order to assess their size and epidermal microstructure. In the plants studied, the upper part of the hypanthium is lined by nectariferous tissue. The nectaries in the four species vary in terms of their sizes. Nectar is secreted onto the surface of the epidermis through anomocytic, slightly elongated or circular stomata. The largest stomata on the nectary epidermis were found in the flowers of C. horizontalis, and the smallest ones in C. divaricatus.Their size and location in relation to other epidermal cells were taxon-specific. The highest density of stomata in the nectary epidermis was found in C. divaricatus (205 per mm2), whereas C. horizontalis flowers exhibited the lowest (98 per mm2) stomatal density. The cuticular ornamentation on the nectary epidermis surface was diverse. The stomatal indices calculated for the nectary epidermis were considerably lower than for the leaves in the particular species.
Variability of morphological and anatomical traits in natural populations of Festuca rubra and F. nigrescens
Authors: Dąbrowska Agnieszka
Published: April 2013

Morphological and anatomical variability in 24 subpopulations of two native species of Festuca occurring in Poland was studied. The principal component analysis and cluster analysis of morphometric data and DNA classified specimens or sub-populations of Festuca into two groups, corresponding to the two species. F. rubra and F. nigrescens are similar to each other in most morphological characters: the number of the florets, the length of the spikelet, the length of the lemma awn, the width and thickness of the leaf, the length of the cauline leaf, the length of hairs in the leaf, the number and diameter of vascular bundles in the leaf, the hairiness of branches of the panicle, the hairiness of the lemma. The key morphological features distinguishing both species include the number of ribs in the leaf, the width of the cauline leaf (second from the top), caespitose, presence of rhizomes and quantity of the sclerenchymatous tissue in the leaf blade. Apparent differences were detected between the single sub-populations. However, between the intraspecific sub-populations, diversity in terms of the following traits was observed: the length of the stems, number of florets in the spikelet, the length of the spikelet and lemma awn, the width of the cauline leaves, the number of the ribs and quantity of the sclerenchymatous tissue in the leaf blade.
Anatomical traits of sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) fruit
Authors: Weryszko-Chmielewska Elżbieta , Michałojć Zenia
Published: April 2013

The micromorphology of the epidermis as well as the anatomy of the pericarp and fruit pedicle in Capsicum annuum L., cv. 'Red Knight F1', were studied using light and scanning electron microscopy. The pericarp was found to consist of an epidermis with strongly thickened outer walls, several layers of tangential and angular collenchyma as well as multi-layered parenchyma composed of cells of varying size in which very large lobed nuclei were observed. Chromoplasts were found in the cells of the above-mentioned tissues. The inner epidermis of the pericarp was characterized by thick cell walls and numerous straight pits. Among the tissues of the fruit pedicle, we observed epidermis with numerous stomata, collenchyma, chlorenchyma with very large intercellular spaces, small clusters of sclerenchyma, secondary phloem and xylem as well live and dead cells of the pith which were characterized by the presence of thin walls with numerous pits. The structural traits of the pericarp of the red pepper cultivar under study show adaptations to significantly reduced transpiration, which is an important feature during storage. At the same time, the strongly thickened and cutinized walls of the fruit contribute to a reduction in its digestibility and impede nutrient penetration in non-root feeding.
The effect of the method of application of growth regulators on fruit quality of 'Einset seedless' grape (Vitis sp. L.)
Authors: Kapłan Magdalena
Published: April 2013

This study was conducted during the period 2006-2008 in the Faliszowice Vineyard in the Sandomierz Upland. The experiment evaluated yield quality of 'Einset Seedless' grape after the application of gibberellic acid (GA3) in the form of the growth regulator Arbostim 100 SL and 2-naphthoxyacetic acid (NOA) in the form of the growth regulator Betokson Super 050 SL. These growth regulators were applied during flowering by spraying the inflorescences or immersing them in whole at the following concentrations: 100 mg×L-1 GA3 - the treatment was performed once at full flowering (70-80% of open flowers); 50 mg×L-1 GA3 - the treatment was performed twice: at the beginning of flowering (20% of open flowers), and the second time at the end of flowering (80% of faded flowers); 50 mg×L-1 GA3 + 0.2% NOA - the treatment was performed once at full flowering; and 0.2% NOA - the treatment was performed once at full flowering. The study showed that the applied treatments had a beneficial effect on cluster and berry weight as well as on the number of berries per cluster in the grape variety 'Einset Seedless'. Gibberellic acid and the mixture of 50 mg×L-1 GA3 and 0.2% NOA were shown to have a significant effect on cluster and berry length; an exception were clusters and berries sprayed with 50 mg×L-1 GA3 whose length did not differ significantly compared to the control ones. The applied treatments slightly affected berry width in the grape variety under study. The growth regulators applied were found to have an adverse effect on extract content in 'Einset Seedless' fruit.
Use of SCAR-PCR in diagnostics of stem base pathogens of the Rhizoctonia and Oculimacula genus
Authors: Lemańczyk Grzegorz
Published: April 2013

The aim of the paper is to compare the efficacy of SCAR-PCR assay and conventional diagnostic technique (visual assessment, isolation on PDA medium) in the identification of fungi from the genera Rhizoctonia and Oculimacula from winter triticale, rye, and barley during the shooting stage. The usefulness of molecular diagnosis of fungal pathogens in crop plants has been demonstrated. The application of SCAR- -PCR assay allowed early detection of the following pathogens: O. yallundae, O. acuformis, R. cerealis and R. solani, in plant tissues. This method was particularly effective in detection of R. solani. The research showed the usefulness of PCR markers for early detection of fungal pathogens, even if symptoms were not visible. Using the PCR technique, especially in combination with conventional methods, substantially increases the precision and effectiveness of disease diagnostics.
Macromycetes indicator species for xerothermic grasslands of the Chęciny district
Authors: Jaworska Justyna , Łuszczyński Janusz , Łuszczyńska Bożena , Tomaszewska Agnieszka
Published: April 2013

In the Chęciny district, xerothermic grasslands developed on deforested slopes of limestone hills, truncated folds, and mounds. Their origin is directly connected with agricultural and pastoral farming of man. Xerothermic grassland belongs to the class Festuco-Brometea, and the alliance Cirsio-Brachypodion. The plant association Thalictro-Salvietum pratensis is the most widespread in this area. The xerothermic grasslands have their own characteristic biota of macromycetes. The following steppe, xerothermic, and thermophilous fungi deserve special attention: Agaricus bernardii, Camarophyllus virgineus, Conocybe sienophylla, Entoloma incanum, Hygrocybe konradii, H. persistens, H. reae, Lepiota alba, and Leucopaxillus lepistoides. As a result of the xerothermic swards being progressively overgrown by shrubs and trees, among others, by Pinus sylvestris, one can find fungi species accompanying this tree: Suillus collinitus, also fungi producing underground fruit bodices Rhizopogon obtextus and Rh. roseolus. The main factors threatening xerothermic grasslands of the Chęciny district are, among others, the devastation and disappearance of natural habitats, often as a result of inappropriate human land management as well as the pollution of air, water, and soil. The effective protection of rare, threatened, and also legally protected fungi species is only possible by protecting their natural habitats as a whole.
A revision of distribution and the ecological description of Orobanche picridis (Orobanchaceae) at the NE limit of its geographical range from Poland and Ukraine
Authors: Piwowarczyk Renata
Published: April 2013

The paper presents the current distribution of Orobanche picridis in Poland and Ukraine, within the Polish borders in the interwar period, based on a critical revision of herbarium and literature data as well as the results of my field studies. The largest number of its localities is in S and SE Poland in the Wyżyna Śląsko-Krakowska, Wyżyna Małopolska, Wyżyna Lubelska uplands, Middle Roztocze, Small Polesie, the Pogórze Przemyskie foreland and in the former Tarnopol province (W Ukraine). These are the north-easternmost sites known for the species and extend its limit range. A map of its distribution in Poland and Ukraine is included. The taxonomy, biology, and ecology of O. picridis are also discussed.
The effect of the method and time of seedling production on red cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. ssp. oleracea convar. capitata (L) Alef. var. capitata L. f. rubra DC.) yield
Authors: Tendaj Maria , Sawicki Krzysztof
Published: April 2013

This study, conducted in the period 2006-2008, involved an evaluation of yield and commercially useful traits of red cabbage grown from seedlings produced from seeds sown at three different times (the second decade of April, the third decade of April, and the first decade of May). Seedlings were produced in multicell trays in an unheated greenhouse and in a nursery bed from seeds sown at the same time. The experiment included 6 red cabbage cultivars (‘Huzaro F1’, ‘Kalibos’, ‘Langedijker Polana’, ‘Rodeo F1’, ‘Roxy F1’, ‘Zelox F1’). After cabbage heads were harvested in the second decade of October (in each year), total and marketable yield as well as head weight and the head shape index were determined. Red cabbage yield was shown to be significantly dependent on the cultivar, time of sowing, and method of seedling production. Among the cultivars studied, the following proved to be the most productive, irrespective of the other experimental factors: ‘Zelox F1’ (marketable yield averaged 398.11 kg×100 m-2), ‘Roxy F1’ (marketable yield averaged 368.82 kg×100 m-2), and ‘Rodeo F1’ (marketable yield averaged 331.59 kg×100 m-2). The cultivar ‘Kalibos’ was characterized by the lowest marketable yield (on average 257.09 kg×100 m-2). Delayed sowing (to produce seedlings) by 10 and 20 days, compared to the earliest sowing time, had a significant effect on the reduction in total and marketable yield. Irrespective of the time of sowing, the production of seedlings in multicell trays did not have a significant effect on higher head weight. But the influence of the cultivar was significant - heads of the highest weight were found in the yield of the cultivar ‘Zelox F1’ (head weight was on average 1.71 kg). The head shape index was more than 1 and on average it did not exceed 1.35. The cultivar ‘Kalibos’ had the most elongated heads (with a conical shape), while cabbage heads in the cultivar ‘Langedijker Polana’ were closest to the spherical shape.
The after-effect of long-term reduced tillage systems on the biodiversity of weeds in spring crops
Authors: Woźniak Andrzej , Haliniarz Małgorzata
Published: April 2013

A strictly controlled field experiment on traditional and reduced tillage systems as well as herbicide treatment was conducted at the Agricultural Experimental Station of Uhrusk in the years 2007-2011. In the last year of the experiment, the effect of different tillage systems on the level of weed infestation and biodiversity of weeds was determined in all the plots for the crop of common spring wheat Triticum aestivum L., spring durum wheat Triticum durum Desf., and oat Avena sativa L. at two growth stages: tillering (23/24 on BBCH scale) and dough stage (83/85). A higher number and higher air-dry weight of weeds were determined at tillering than at the dough stage. Long-term reduced tillage increased the number of weeds per 1m2 at the tillering stage, contrary to herbicide treatment. At the dough stage, a higher number of weeds was observed in the herbicide treatment and reduced tillage plots compared to traditional tillage. The air-dry weight of weeds at the tillering and dough stages of cereals was significantly higher in the case of herbicide treatment than under the traditional and reduced tillage systems. Weed communities in spring wheat, durum wheat and oat included mostly annual weeds. A higher number of weed species was determined in the plot with long-term herbicide treatment than in the plots with reduced and traditional tillage systems.
Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) head initiation under field conditions
Authors: Kałużewicz Alina , Krzesiński Włodzimierz , Knaflewski Mikołaj , Lisiecka Jolanta , Spiżewski Tomasz , Frąszczak Barbara
Published: April 2013

A two–year study on the influence of temperature on broccoli head initiation was carried out at the ''Marcelin'' experimental station of the Poznań University of Life Sciences. In each year of the study, plants were planted in the field at four dates. The evaluation of the developmental phase of the broccoli shoot apex was based on the analysis of microscope slides. The date of head initiation was assumed as the day on which the first of the examined apices were found to be at the early generative phase. The plant characteristics (number of leaves, leaf area and stem diameter) on the date of initiation were also determined. Variation in length of the period from planting to head initiation was found both between dates of planting and between experimental years. The shortest period from planting to initiation was when the plants were planted in April and June (17-18 days) in the first year and the longest one for planting in April in the first year of the study (29 days). The length of the period from planting to head initiation depended on mean daily air temperature. The higher the temperature was, the shorter was the period.
Evaluation of growth and flowering of cultivars derived from the rugosa (Rosa rugosa Thunb.) growing in the national collection of rose cultivars in the Polish Academy of Sciences Botanical Garden in Powsin. Part I. The historical cultivars
Authors: Monder Marta J.
Published: April 2013

In the years 2000-2011, observations were made of shrubs of the cultivars derived from the Rugosa (R. rugosa Thunb.) gathered in the Collection of Rose Cultivars of the Polish Academy of Sciences (PAS) Botanical Garden – Center for Biological Diversity Conservation (CBDC) in Powsin, Poland, including 29 cultivars. In the first part, the results are presented for 12 historical cultivars (‘Agnes’, ‘Belle Poitevine’, ‘Blanc Double de Coubert’, ‘F.J. Grootendorst’, ‘Frau Dagmar Hastrup’, ‘Hansa’, ‘Kaiserin des Nordens’, ‘Max Graf’, ‘Moje Hammarberg’, ‘Mrs Anthony Waterer’, ‘Pink Grootendorst’, ‘Rugeaux du Japon’). Every year, damage to shrubs caused by frost was recorded; the date of bud break and the date when leaves developed in springtime were recorded; regeneration of shrubs damaged in winter was observed; the dates of initial, full and final flowering were recorded; the presence of disease symptoms was observed; and notes were made concerning the need to do spring pruning and pruning after flowering. The winter seasons 2002/2003, 2005/2006, 2009/2010, 2010/2011 were unfavourable for roses. In terms of the features in question, the cultivars varied. The cultivars derived from the Rugosa should find a wider application as park roses (‘Agnes’, ‘Belle Poitevine’, ‘F.J. Grootendorst’, ‘Frau Dagmar Hastrup’, ‘Mrs Anthony Waterer’, ‘Pink Grootendorst’, ‘Rugeaux du Japon’) as well as ground cover and soil protection roses (‘Blanc Double de Coubert’, ‘Hansa’, ‘Kaiserin des Nordens’, ‘Max Graf’, ‘Moje Hammarberg’) planted in urban green areas and near historical buildings.
The influence of strip cropping on the state and degree of weed infestation in dent maize (Zea mays L.), common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), and spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)
Authors: Głowacka Aleksandra
Published: April 2013

The experiment was conducted in the years 2008–2010 at the Experimental Station of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences in Zamość, University of Life Sciences in Lublin. The following factors were analysed in the experiment: I. Cultivation method – sole cropping and strip cropping, which consisted in the cultivation of three plants: dent maize, common bean, and spring barley, in adjacent strips with a width of 3.3 m; II. Weed control methods – mechanical and chemical. The subject of the research was weed infestation of the 'Celio' variety of dent maize, the 'Aura' variety of common bean, and the 'Start' variety of spring barley. Weed infestation of the crops was assessed two weeks before harvesting by determining the species composi- tion as well as the number and dry weight of weeds. The dominant weed species in maize, common bean and spring barley were Echinochloa crus-galli, Chenopodium album and Galinsoga parviflora, constituting from 58% to 70% of the total number of weeds. Strip cropping clearly reduced the number of weeds per unit area in all the cultivated species and dry weight of aboveground parts produced by them in common bean and maize crops. The limiting effect of strip cropping on the weed infestation parameters was particularly clear in combination with the mechanical weed control method.
The effect of triazine - and urea - type herbicides on photosynthetic apparatus in cucumber leaves
Authors: Jerzykiewicz Jolanta , Kłobus Grażyna
Published: April 2013

About a half of the herbicides used at present in agnculture inhibit the light reactions in photosynthesis. Triazines and phenylureas shut down the photosynthetic process in susceptible plants by binding to specific sites within the plants photosystem II (PS II) complex. Both of them bind at the QB site on the Dl protein of PS II, and prevent the transport of electrons between the primary electron acceptor Q and the plastoquinone (PQ). Herbicides can be highly toxic to human and animal health (triazines are possible human carcinogens). Their indiscriminate use has serious environmental implications, for example pollution of soil and water. We compare two heibicides to investigate the one of lowest environmental toxicity but of high toxicity to weeds.
Conditions of the occurrence of Anemone sylvestris in a kettle hole in north-eastern Poland
Authors: Kwiatkowska-Falińska Anna J. , Faliński Janusz B.
Published: April 2013

The research, in 2004, was focused on the whole population of Anemone sylvestris (Snowdrop Windflower) present in the area of a kettle hole (0.8 km2) in north-eastern Poland (52°50’00’’N; 23°11’20’’E). The location of 56 clumps of generative specimens was surveyed. They numbered from several to approx. 1500 specimens. The number of generative specimens in this population exceeded 10 000. On account of this, it is a unique stand of A. sylvestris in Poland. The relationship between the occurrence of the Snowdrop Windflower and the presence of kame hills and ridges has been proven. Low slopes of kame with an inclination of 10-20o, and a north-eastern or eastern exposition has been found as the local ecological optimum for this species. Research carried out in 1970-2001 on 5 permanent plots (25 m2 each) has shown that: 1) Anemone sylvestris is an essential element of xerothermic grasslands of the order Festucetalia valesiacae; 2) the species suddenly withdraws from the parts of land on which woody species have already reached the shrub layer; 3) the greatest danger for the population of A. sylvestris in this area is the process of secondary succession initiated by the discontinuation of grazing on the kame hills.
Gametophyte and sporophyte of tree ferns in vitro culture
Authors: Goller Katarzyna , Rybczyński Jan J.
Published: April 2013

Experiments had been carried out on gametophytes and very young fronds of sporophytes with application of Murashige and Skoog (1962) medium. The paper described the results of 15 years in vitro experiments on 16 species of tree ferns belonging to various genera: Blechnum, Cibotium, Cyathea and Dicksonia. Genus Cyathea was represented by: C. australis (R.Br.) Domin., C. capensis (L.f.) Sm., C. cooperi (F.Muell.) Domin, C. brownii Domin, C. dealbata (G.Forest) Sw., C. dregei Kunze, C. leichhardtiana (F.Muell.) Copel., C. robertsiana (F.Muell.) Domin., C. schanschin Mart., C. smithii Hook.f. and Cyathea sp. In case of genus Dicksonia only two species were introduced into our experiments: D. fibrosa Colenso and D. sellowiana Hook.. Taxa Blechnum was presented by B. brasiliense Desv. and Cibotium by C. glaucum (Sm.) Hook. and Arn. and C. schiedei Schltdl. and Cham.. The studied species presented various responses on culture conditions depending on the level of stage of development. Time required for spores germination differed between species and took from only a few to 16 weeks. Prothalium formations showed various types of growth presented by marginal meristems. For all investigated species long term gametophyte in vitro cultures was established. Mature gametophyte possessed functional antheridia and archegonia. Spontaneous fertilization helped to establish the culture of young sporophytes. For all species the ex vitro culture in greenhouse collection was established. Manipulation of sucrose content in the medium stimulated the multiplication of gametophytes, but its lack induced formation of gemmae. Apospory was observed when culture of very young fronds was extended for 6 months and new generation of gametophytes was developed. Finally, sporophytes of 12 species were obtained and they have been growing in our greenhouse.
New localities of Taraxacum species from S Poland (with nine new species to Polish flora)
Authors: Trávníček Bohumil , Marciniuk Jolanta , Žíla Vojtěch
Published: April 2013

A study of the very complex, from the taxonomic point of view, Taraxacum genus was undertaken in the area between the towns of Cieszyn and Bielsko-Biała (S Poland). Taraxacum species belonging to three sections: sect. Hamata H. Øllg. (three species), sect. Palustria (H. Lindb.) Dahlst. (one unidentified taxon), and sect. Ruderalia Kirschner, H. Øllg. et Štěpánek (61 species) were recorded. Nine species new to Poland were found: T. acutifrons Markl., T. ancistratum H. Øllg., T. bellum H. Øllg., T. chrysophaenum Railons., T. deltoidifrons H. Øllg., T. horridifrons Railons., T. pronilobum H. Øllg., T. rhamphodes Hagl., T. violaceifrons Trávníček. Presence of three other species, whose localities hitherto have not been exactly given, was confirmed: T. aberrans Hagendijk, van Soest et Zevenbergen, T. fasciatum Dahlst. and T. gibberum Markl. (all they belong to the section Ruderalia). For most species, the details of their occurrence in Poland were also reported. The species new in Poland are briefly described and illustrated with photographs of herbarium specimens.
Ancient woodland plant species in a landscape park in central Poland
Authors: Mitka Józef , Jakubowska-Gabara Janina
Published: April 2013

A numerical analysis of the phytosociological relevés from ancient and recent woodland on a mesic forest site in central Poland was carried out. Three groups of forest stands were recognised: planted with Pinus, recent and ancient oak-hornbeam Tilio-Carpinetum. The species of ancient woodland occurred mainly in ancient oak-hornbeam forest stands, however some ferns: Dryopteris carthusiana, D. dilatata and D. filix-mas, and an orchid species Epipactis helleborine, are to be found mainly or exclusively in recent forests. The occurrence of ancient forest species in recent woods may be putatively explained by long-distance wind dispersal or by the thriving in situ in unrecognised small wood patches. Twelve ancient woodland indicators (i.e. 36% of a total number found in the region under study) occur exclusively in ancient woodland. It underlines the role of passive species protection in the maintenance of the regional species diversity.
Water trophicity of Utricularia microhabitats identlfied by means of SOFM as a tool in ecological modeling
Authors: Kosiba Piotr , Stankiewicz Andrzej
Published: April 2013

The study objects were 48 microhabitats of five Utricularia species in Lower and Upper Silesia (POLAND). The aim of the paper was to focus on application of the Self-Organizing Feature Map in assessment of water trophicity in Utricularia microhabitats, and to describe how SOFM can be used for the study of ecological subjects. This method was compared with the hierarchical tree plot of cluster analysis to check whether this techniques give similar results. In effect, both topological map of SOFM and dendrogram of cluster analysis show differences between Utricularia species microhabitats in respect of water quality, from eutrophic for U. vulgaris to dystrophic for U. minor and U. intermedia. The used methods give similar results and constitute a validation of the SOFM method in this type of studies.
Effect of salt and water stresses on growth, nitrogen and phosphorus metabolism in Cucumis sativus L. seedlings
Authors: Sacała Elżbieta , Grzyś Edward , Demczuk Anna , Spiak Zofia
Published: April 2013

Plants exposed to osmotic stress exhibit changes in their physiology and metabolism. In general, osmotic stress reduces water availability and causes nutritional imbalance in plants. In the present study, we compared the response of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L. var. Władko F-1) to ionic (100 mmol•dm-3 NaCl) and osmotic stress (10% PEG 6000). Both stress factors reduced significantly fresh and dry weight of 7-day-old cucumber seedlings. Under PEG treatment reduction of cucumber dry mass was lesser than in fresh mass, whereas under salt stress decrease in dry weight of cucumber shoots was more pronounced than in fresh mass. Salt stress caused severe decrease in nitrate concentration and activity of nitrate reductase (NR). In cotyledons nitrate content declined to 17% of the control and similar reduction in NR activity was observed. In the roots, observed changes were not so drastic but there was also strong interaction between reduction in nitrate content and NR activity. Under 10% PEG both nitrate concentration and NR activity in cucumber roots were significantly higher in comparison to control plants. In cotyledons NR activity was significantly lower than in control plants, while decrease in nitrate content was not statistically significant. Phosphate concentration did not change significantly in cucumber cotyledons but increased in roots treated both NaCl (32% increase) and PEG (53% increase). Similar tendencies were observed in acid phosphatase activity. Obtained results indicated that osmotic and salt stresses evoke differential responses, particularly in growth reduction and nitrogen metabolism in cucumber seedlings.
Flora and habitat of potato pits on karne hills in north-eastern Poland
Authors: Faliński Janusz B. , Kwiatkowska-Falińska Anna J.
Published: April 2013

The research was carried out in north-eastern Poland in the vicinity of the village of Haćki (52°50’00’’N; 23°11’20’’E). This area is distinguished by an exceptionally numerous agglomeration of kames (10). Previous archaeological and soil research showed that kames have been inhabited by man from the iron age, and that the following stages of colonization are reflected in three levels of fossil soils. In modern times local people use the base of kames for the storage of potatoes over the winter. The potato pits are a cultural curiosity found only in this area. They are dug out in the cohesive, fine-grained substratum, which is the building material of kames, down to 1.5-2 m deep. Research plots (16) with a surface area of about 2-5 m2 were established in the potato pits in 1990. In the summer of the same year 16 phytosociological surveys were performed and soil samples taken. The investigated habitats are characterized by very low humidity. The concentration of carbon in the samples from potato pits dug out at the foot of a kame hill (the site of a settlement in the past) results probably from the occurrence of soil from the Roman period. At the present time the pits are covered by poor ruderal flora (approx. 10 species in one phytosociological survey). It is distinguished from other communities of such type by a low participation of species occurring in the xerothermic grasslands.
The floristic differentiation of microhabitats within kurgans in the desert steppe zone of southern Ukraine
Authors: Sudnik-Wójcikowska Barbara , Moysiyenko Ivan I.
Published: April 2013

Results of the studies on the floristic biodiversity of the kurgans in the Pontic desert steppe of the Black Sea Lowland (Kherson Region) are presented. Twenty-six of about 130 kurgans higher than 3 m, distributed over an area of approx. 1500 km2, were surveyed and the flora of 5 microhabitats within every kurgan (top, southern and northern slope, southern and northern foot) was examined. The richness of the kurgan flora is estimated at 305 species. Species of alien origin constituted 23% of the total flora, which indicates limited anthropogenic influence. Species of two classes, Festuco-Brometea and Stellarietea mediae were predominant, which also confirmed the semi-natural character of the kurgan flora. The lowest number of species was recorded on top, which was relatively rich in synanthropes, particularly therophytes (Stellarietea mediae). The north side was richer in species than the south side of the kurgans. Steppe species were the most stable and important component of the flora of the slopes (45-47% of the species represented the class Festuco-Brometea). The total flora of the foot contained more species and was more diversified than the flora of the slopes (although the mean number of species was similar in both habitats), but each species occurred at low frequency. There was a higher proportion of species which were introduced from the area surrounding the kurgans, e.g. weeds, halophytes, meadow species, as well as trees which are rarely found in the desert steppe zone. In spite of the small size of the kurgans, significant differences between the floristic composition of the various microhabitats were detected.
DNA level in guard cells nuclei of Ornithogalum umbellatum ovary is 2C-4C
Authors: Kwiatkowska Maria , Rogala Katarzyna , Popłońska Katarzyna
Published: April 2013

The DNA content after Feulgen reaction in the guard cells and epidermis of Omithogalum umbellatum ovary was cytophotometrically measured in different phases of flower development. Only in bud of flowers guard cells DNA content was 2C while in full blown flowers it was higher, between 2C-4C. This observation was supported by autoradiographic studies with 3H-thymidine which was incorporated into guard cell nuclei in the ovary epidermis of newly developed flowers. Thus DNA level in O. umbellatum guard cells was higher than those in other plants described in literature. On the other hand, DNA content in the epidermis cells increased gradually with ovary growth reaching the maximum level of 8C in some cells.
Efficient plant regeneration of bittersweet (Solanum dulcamara L.), a medicinal plant
Authors: Ucar Turker Arzu , Canserver Multu Esra
Published: April 2013

Solanum dulcamara L. (bittersweet) is a medicinal plant that has been used to treat skin diseases, warts, tumors, felons, arthritis, rheumatism, bronchial congestion, heart ailments, ulcerative colitis, eye inflammations, jaundice and pneumonia. A reliable in vitro culture protocol for bittersweet was established. Explants (leaf and petiole segments) were cultured on Murashige and Skoog minimal organics (MSMO) medium with various plant growth regulator combinations. Leaf explants formed more shoots than petiole explants. Plant regeneration was observed through indirect organogenesis with both explants. Best shoot proliferation was obtained from leaf explants with 3 mg/l BA (benzyladenine) and 0.5 mg/l IAA (indole-3-acetic acid). Regenerated shoots were transferred to rooting media containing different levels of IAA (indole-3-acetic acid), IBA (indole-3-butyric acid), NAA (naphthalene acetic acid) or 2,4-D (2,4 dichlorophenoxyacetic acid). Most shoots developed roots on medium with 0.5 mg/l IBA. Rooted explants were transferred to vermiculate in Magenta containers for acclimatization and after 2 weeks, they were planted in plastic pots containing potting soil and maintained in the plant growth room.
Diphyes Blume, a forgotten genus of the subtribe Bulbophyllinae (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae)
Authors: Szlachetko Dariusz L. , Rutkowski Piotr
Published: April 2013

The genus Diphyes Blume is reinstated. 62 new combinations on the species level are validated.
Alder-ash and willow communities and their diversity in the Pogórze Strzyżowskie foothills (Western Carpathians)
Authors: Stachurska-Swakoń Alina , Towpasz Krystyna
Published: April 2013

The results of phytosociological studies on the diversity of alder-ash and willow communities in the Pogórze Strzyżowskie foothills are presented. These communities, especially Carici remotae-Fraxinetum are increasingly rare in the landscape of the Carpathians. The paper supports new data allowing better understanding of the diversity of the Carici remotae-Fraxinetum in the southern Poland. On the basis of 59 phytosociological releves two sub-associations were identified: C.r.-F. chrysosplenietosum and C. r.-F. equisetetosum maximii and the form with Alnus incana. The association Carici remotae-Fraxinetum belongs to submontane regional form and to East Carpathian variant. The significance of Caltha palustris-Chaerophyllum hirsutum community is also presented, along with the role of Carex pendula and Matteucia struthiopteris. The paper provides also documentary data on sporadic occurrence of Salicetum triandro-viminalis and Salicetum albo-fragilis communities.
Micropropagation of Plantago maritima L. - a vanishing species in Poland
Authors: Andrzejewska-Golec Emilia , Makowczyńska Joanna
Published: April 2013

A vanishing species in Poland - Plantago maritima L. was regenerated in vitro from tips of shoots (obtained in vitro) and from different explants of 4-week-old seedlings: seedling tips, hypocotyls, cotyledons, roots. Murashige and Skoog basal medium, supplemented with 0.6 pM indole-3-acetic acid in combination with cytokinins 6-benzyladenine, zeatin or kinetin, was used. The plants obtained in the result of micropropagation were normal in appearence. It was proved that Plantago maritima species was amenable to propagation from different kinds of explants. The method may be of significance for protection of sea plantain.
Biosystematic studies of Elymus repens (L.) Gould (Poaceae): patterns of phenotypic variation
Authors: Szczepaniak Magdalena
Published: April 2013

Inter- and intrapopulational morphological variability of Elymus repens, a cool-season peren-nial grass and a tenacious weed that spreads both by seeds and rhizomes forming a thick and stout net, was examined. Multivariate statistical analysis of 48 initial morphological characters obtained from 44 population samples (1180 specimens) collected in different habitats revealed the conspicuous variation within E. repens. Principal Component Analysis revealed three extremes of the morphological gradient that were referred to as three varieties of E. repens: var. repens, var. aristatus and var. subulatus, not correlated with the habitat type or geographi-cal location. Canonical Discriminant Analysis proved the taxonomic usefulness of characters such as awned or awnless glumes and lemmas as well as the shape of glumes for variety di-stinction. Results of morphological analysis, in relation to the low level of genetic variation showed in the previous studies, suggest that the extensive morphological variation of E. re-pens can be caused by its plasticity where different morphological patterns are realized on the same genome basis. Additionally, the open-pollinated system of mating results in new combi-nations of morphological characters of plants that further reproduce vegetatively by rhizomes. The nomenclature, taxonomic descriptions and a key to the three varieties are provided.
Derivation of the formula for the filtration coefficient by application of Poiseuille's law in membrane transport
Authors: Jarzyńska Maria , Pietruszka Mariusz
Published: April 2013

On the basis of Kedem-Katchalsky equations a mathematical analysis of volume flow (Jv) of a binary solution through a membrane (M) is presented. Two cases of transport generators have been considered: hydrostatic (Δp) as well as osmotic (Δπ) pressure difference. Based on the Poiseuille's law we derive the formula for the membrane filtration coefficient (Lp) which takes into account the membrane properties, kinetic viscosity and density of a solution flowing across the membrane. With use of this formula we have made model calculations of the filtration coefficient Lp and volume flow Jv for a polymer membrane in the case when the solutions on both sides of the membrane are mixed.
Taraxacum scanicum Dahlst. group (section Erythrosperma) in Poland: chorology and seed and pollen morphology of the microspecies
Authors: Marciniuk Jolanta , Vašut Radim J. , Marciniuk Paweł , Czarna Aneta
Published: April 2013

The genus Taraxacum is taxonomically complicated due to apomixis. Therefore, there are significant differences in knowledge of regional Taraxacum-Floras among European countries. Similarly, some taxa are well characterised with well-known distribution, whereas some ones are known e.g. from a single locality. Taraxacum scanicum of section Erythrosperma is one of the most common microspecies of this section in Europe. Recently, this taxon was split into three microspecies. In this study we map the distribution of three described taxa of this group in Poland, i.e. T. scanicum s.s., T. prunicolor and T. cristatum. The survey showed that T. scanicum has a similar distribution as T. prunicolor in Poland. This is in contrast with the hitherto known distribution of both taxa. T. cristatum was found at a single locality that is quite distant from the distribution in southern central Europe. We also provide with new morphological characteristics of achenes and pollen for T. scanicum s.s. and T. prunicolor.