The impact of environmental factors on the biometric characteristics of high juniper forests of the Crimea

High-juniper forests are a critical component of the sustainability of the Crimean Peninsula. However, the area visited by J. excelsa in Crimea is currently increasing. As a result, there is a threat of irreversible changes in the appearance of the peninsula in the future. As a result of the research, the biometric characteristics of the high-juniper forests of the Crimea and the characteristics of the ancient environmental factors existing on them were determined. Based on the goals of the work, the following tasks were set: to establish the main taxation characteristics of hopes; the degree of influence of abiotic and anthropogenic factors according to the studied parameters. According to methods generally accepted in forestry and geobotany, 28 sample plots of 0.2 hectares in size were established within J. excelsa stands at an altitude of 40 to 1020 m above sea level, in various edapho-orographic conditions. Using one-way analysis of variance, the degree of biometric characteristics of abiotic and anthropogenic factors in the high-juniper forests of Crimea was revealed. As a result of the studies, it was established that the average diameter of J. excelsa stands is 27.1±1.3 cm (with minimum and maximum values of 11 cm and 41 cm, respectively). Among the factors that have the greatest influence on trunk diameter are: edaphic conditions and regional growth. In addition, it was established that J. excelsa trees are not described in the alphabetical heights characteristic of the main ones among the Mediterranean part of the range, which, in turn, indicates stable conditions of existence on its northern border. On average, the height of J. excelsa individuals in the Crimean Mountains is 5.4±0.2 m. A unique element of the Crimean culture, J. excelsa is being studied growing on the town of Krestovaya, their height reaches 16 m, which is 3 times higher than the average height of the area.