Problems and actual directions of biogeocenology and ecology of ecosystems

A review of literature dedicated to the creation and development of concepts of the potential vegetation and ecosystem cover has been performed. The modern synecological concepts of the structural-functional organization and dynamics of ecosystems have been integrated into a system enabling further development of the concepts of the potential vegetation and potential ecosystem cover at the current level of knowledge. The prospects for further development of the concept of potential ecosystem cover are outlined. They are essential for the accomplishment of theoretical and practical conservation objectives.