Title : Bioecological characteristics of natural stands of yew (Taxus baccata) in the Batsari gorge in Georgia
Abstract:
Yew - Taxus bacata L. is a widespread species in Europe, although its natural stands are only found in Georgia, covering an area of 300 ha. Here, beech, hornbeam, maple and other species grow alongside yew. There are areas where stand is mainly represented by thousand-year-old yews, and there are also stands of mostly yew, where beech is the dominant tree. This species has a fragmented range in Georgia, and according to the IUCN categories it is assigned the status of Vulnerable (VU). The study was conducted to investigate bioecological characteristics of yew in natural conditions. In particular, the rate of renewal and growth of yew and formation of yew stands were studied. Studies have shown that the yew grows in the Batsara Gorge from 850 m to 1600 m, mainly on the northern slopes. In these areas, yew is mostly distributed in small groups, although there are also individual trees together with beech. The age of the yew is from young to 2000 years. The growth of the yew tree in the open areas and under trees in the forest is completely different. Growth in the forest is very slow up to 150-200 years, while growth is relatively intensive in trees aged 200-500 years. Adult trees increase in diameter more than in height. In Batsara Gorge the height of a 200-year-old yew is 6-7 m, and the diameter is 10 cm, while the height of 400- 500-year-old trees is 20-23 m and the diameter is 45-50 cm. The natural regeneration and adults of the species are usually yew. Their numbers are average in open areas, and very low (or absent) under trees in forests. Studying the bioecological characteristics of yew will help us properly plan conservation measures for this rare and endangered species. This work was implemented with the financial support of Shota Rustaveli National Science Foundation of Georgia (Grant # FR- 22- 2188).
