Phenological Shifts in Moldova's Forest Ecosystems: Detecting Climate Change Impacts Using 30 Years of Satellite Observations

Constanța Țărnă

Diplomová práce

Abstract:

Objective of the thesis: This study aims to assess the current biodiversity of epiphytic lichens west of Prague and compare it with data collected in 2012 (Jindřich Kadoun, Master's thesis). The study area is defined by the villages of Vysoký Újezd, Luzce, Kozolupy, the northern part of Český Kras Protected Landscape Area, Mořina, Chýnice, Zadní Kopanina, Zmrzlík, Ořech, Zbuzany, Jinočany, Chrášťany, Rudná, Mezouň, and back to Vysoký Újezd. Air quality will be assessed using the LDV method on the same 100 Fraxinus excelsior trees sampled in 2012. By replicating the previous study's methodology and employing statistical analysis, we will determine the dynamics of air pollutant concentrations that have influenced the current local biodiversity. The temporal and spatial distribution of lichens will serve as an indicator of increases or decreases in specific pollutants (SO2, NOx, etc.). Methodology: This study's methodology is based on the LDV (Lichen Diversity Value) method, a quantitative modern European approach for biomonitoring using epiphytic lichens. Published in 2002 (ASTA et al. 2002), this method was tested in the Czech Republic the same year by D. Svoboda (SVOBODA 2002). The LDV method is advantageous due to its ease of replication and provides insights into the long-term effects of pollutants on environmental pollution, the degree of anthropogenic impact on sensitive environmental components, and the rate of eutrophication. Lichen identification will be conducted using a botanical hand lens for easily identifiable species and a stereomicroscope/microscope for more challenging species, referencing modern identification literature (SMITH et al. 2009, NEBEL & PHILIPPI 2000, NEBEL & PHILIPPI 2001, WIRTH et al. 2013). Chemical identification techniques will include the application of various reagents to induce color reactions in the lichen thallus (ORANGE et al. 2001). Specifically, K (10% potassium hydroxide solution), C (calcium hypochlorite solution substituted with bleach), KC (sequential application of K and C), PD (paraphenylenediamine dissolved in 60-90% ethanol), and I (potassium iodide solution) will be utilized. Taxa nomenclature will be standardized according to Liška & Palice (2010), and a comprehensive list of identified species, including their valid scientific names and endangerment status (LIŠKA & PALICE 2010), will be compiled. Statistical analyses, including PCA and ordinations, will be performed in R-studio to determine the influence of environmental factors on species presence. The current data will be compared to the previous dataset based on presence/absence, as specific results from the previous study are unavailable. LDV values will be categorized into classes to reflect statistically and environmentally significant differences among sampling units for result interpretation and presentation. The spatial distribution of LDV values will be mapped using ArcGIS software by interpolating values from neighboring points.

Keywords

biomonitoring, biodiversity, LDV method, Fraxinus excelsior, air pollution, comparative study

Jazyk práce: angličtina

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 9. 3. 2026

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Obhajoba proběhla 19. 5. 2026
• Vedoucí: doc. Zhongbing Chen, Ph.D.
• Oponent: Ye Su, Mgr. Mgr., externi

Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze

Fakulta životního prostředí

Magisterský studijní program:
Nature Conservation