ZLV Online

Beech dominated mixed mountain forests were studied in the limestone and quartzite bedrock of the Malá Fatra Mts, Slovakia. 77 phytosociological reléves were sampled, coordinates measured by GPS device, stored to the electronic database (TURBOVEG) and processed in JUICE program. Natural forest communities occupy 4th and 6th altitudinal vegetation zone. Ten ecosites were recognized according to tabular synthesis of the original phytosociological material, with Fagetum dealpinum, Abieto-Fagetum and Fageto-Aceretum being the most widespread in the area. The most remarkable is occurrence of the communities of the 4th altitudinal vegetation zone (Fagetum pauper, Fagetum tiliosum and Pinetum dealpinum) in the cool montane climate. Interesting is also the contact between acidophilous beech forest communities and Pinus sylvestris or Betula verrucosa, contrasting with calciphilous beech forests along the sharp border between two geological bedrocks. In general, 196 species of vascular plants were found, including some vulnerable, endangered, protected or annex species, such as Cypripedium calceolus, Senecio umbrosus, Phyllitis scolopendrium etc. Phytocoenoses of natural forests are the most optimal communities in these sites. The knowledge of relations between trees and other vascular plants in these communities are important for planting of stands where the tree composition was changed. According to spreading of vascular plants, an unsuitable forest stands can be changed into stable and resistant with the assumption of providing all required functions.