THE IMPACT OF OVERGRAZING ON PROTECTED, MELLIFEROUS, AND XEROPHILOUS SPECIES IN SOUTHEASTERN ROMANIA – A CASE STUDY

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of overgrazing on the frequency of protected, melliferous, and xerophilous plant species in the natural grasslands of southeastern Romania. Given that intensive grazing is one of the main anthropogenic pressures on steppe and forest-steppe ecosystems, the study focused on identifying floristic changes caused by the intensity of pastoral use.
The research was conducted in three distinct areas with different grazing regimes: a control area (ungrazed), a moderately grazed area, and a heavily grazed area. For a total of 18 species of conservation, medicinal, or ecological value, occurrence frequencies were recorded in microplots, and the data were subjected to statistical analysis (Pearson correlations).
The results show a strong negative correlation (r < –0.99) between grazing intensity and the presence of sensitive species, such as Muscari racemosum, Hypericum perforatum, Adonis vernalis, and Pulsatilla montana. Frequency and distribution charts confirm the decline of these species in overgrazed areas.
The conclusions highlight the need for rational pasture management, through controlled grazing and active conservation of habitats with priority flora. The study provides valuable scientific support for environmental policies, pastoral management plans, and plant biodiversity conservation programs in areas affected by anthropogenic pressures