Scientific publications

The first data on characteristics of soil nematode communities in the inner zones of the phytogeneous area (near-tree and under-tree zones) of Siberian larch (Larix sibirica Ledeb.) and spruce (Picea abies (L.) H. Karst.), and in the external zone between trees are presented. Taxonomic diversity, abundance of nematodes and eco-trophic structure of communities are investigated using generally accepted methods in nematology. The results showed that the total abundance, as well as the absolute and relative density of plant parasites and plant-associated nematodes in the phytogeneous area of larch are higher compared to spruce. The change of the dominant group in the eco-trophic structure of nematode communities (from bacterial feeders to fungal feeders) from the trunk to the periphery is shown for larch, this trend is not detected for spruce: groups mentioned above have an equally high percentage in both zones. The total nematode abundance and relative density of omnivorous ones increased in near-tree zones of both trees compared to under-tree zones and external zone between trees. Thus, the results obtained indirectly suggest the presence of microclimatic differences between the phytogeneous areas of larch and spruce.