Ecologia Balkanica

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https://doi.uni-plovdiv.bg/handle/store/4

p-ISSN: 1314-0213 / e-ISSN: 1313-9940

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Hidden diversity: noteworthy cortinarioid fungi (Cortinarius s. l.) from relict deciduous forests of Strandzha Mountain, Bulgaria
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-04-10) Assyov, Boris; Radoukova, Tzenka
The paper communicates interesting findings of cortinarioid fungi from relict deciduous forests in Strandzha Mt. (Bulgaria). Five species were revealed based on the above-ground collecting approach coupled with DNA-barcoding, targeting the nrITS region. These are Calonarius albertii, Ca. violaceipes, Cortinarius pseudocollinitus, Phlegmacium perpallens, and P. scaurocaninum. They are recorded for the first time from Bulgaria and represent their first molecularly supported findings in Southeastern Europe. The collections are illustrated and commented on, and brief morphological data are provided.
Evaluation of vegetation development in reclaimed sites using the NDVI
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-04-10) Petrov, Petar; Stefanova, Veneta
This study investigates the recovery processes in reclaimed sites (an old embankment from copper mining), which was reclaimed by various methods in 2010. For the purpose of this study, the maximum average values of the NDVI index for 2018-2021 were used. According to the results of the study, restoration processes are taking place in recultivated areas, and a tendency for the index to increase over time has been observed. The extent of the restorative process depends on the remedial measures that have been carried out. In the reclamation of sites disturbed by copper mining, liming has been found to be a key amelioration. The use of a NDVI index is a viable and reliable method of tracking site recovery and on-going soil formation process.
Recent wintertime observations of parrots from the genus Psittacula in Bulgaria
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-04-10) Petrov, Rusko; Dimitrova, Tsvetina
Climate change, characterized by rising winter temperatures and decreasing snow cover in Bulgaria, facilitates the adaptation and overwintering of exotic parrots of the genus Psittacula – the Alexandrine Parakeet (Psittacula eupatria) and the Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri), which have been released from private collections or aviaries in urbanized and park environments. Observations since 2020 have registered a total of 8 Alexandrine Parakeets (Stara Zagora - 2, Veliko Tarnovo - 2, Valchi Dol - 2, Montana - 1, Plovdiv - 1) and 4 Rose-ringed Parakeets (2 in Varna and 2 in Stara Zagora). They utilize local tree species (e.g., plane trees, maples, hackberries, cherry laurels) for food, shelter, and roosting, similar to their invasive establishment in neighboring Europe. These changes highlight how milder winters allow tropical species to expand northward, potentially threatening the local fauna.
Nutritional composition of Abies x borisii-regis Mattf. cones from Bulgaria
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-04-08) Mladenova, Vasilena; Radoukova, Tzenka; Ivanova, Miroslava; Dospatliev, Lilko; Mladenov, Rumen; Stoyanov, Plamen; Mladenova, Tsvetelina; Todorov, Krasimir; Gyuzeleva, Donika
In this study, a proximate analysis and determination of the mineral content of Abies x borisii-regis cones from Bulgaria were carried out in connection with their potential use in the pharmaceutical industry. A. x borisii-regis cones showed to be rich in carbohydrates (79.06 g 100-1 g-1 dw), which were the most abundant macronutrients. The proteins in the A. x borisii-regis cones averaged 11.19 g 100-1 g-1 dw. The total energy content in the A. x borisii-regis cones is relatively high 1665.10 g-1 dw. The obtained data on the content of trace elements in the cones of A. x borisiiregis show the highest content of Fe (137.03 mg kg-1), followed by Mn (95.7 mg kg-1) and Zn (70.06 mg kg-1). The results of the proximate analysis of the cones of Tsar Boris fir, as well as the total content of trace elements, suggest the possibility of their direct use in pharmaceuticals and dietetics.
Мonthly fluctuations in litterfall in forest communities, part of the LTER-BG network
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-04-10) Dimitrova, Violeta; Damyanova, Sonya
Litterfall is a crucial component of forest ecosystems that links the tree canopy and soils. It is one of the indicators that must be monitored in the sites of the “Bulgarian Network for Long-Term Ecosystem Research - LTER BG”, which is a part of the “European Network for Long-Term Ecosystem Research”. The present study aimed to determine the production of total litterfall and its components (leaves, flowers and fruits, branches and seeds) and their monthly fluctuations at beech and spruce ecosystems situated at different altitudes. Litterfall quantities were studied in three sample plots in beech and spruce forests in the Balkan Mountains, located in sites of the LTER BG network. The monthly dynamics of deciduous forest show, as expected, the highest amounts of litterfall during the autumn months, with the leaf fraction dominating, followed by the cupulas and seeds. The average annual amount for beech forests was 506.5 g.m-2. In spruce forests, the annual amount was 623.28 g.m-2, with the largest percentage being needles, followed by cones and branches. The annual dynamics of litter in spruce forests show the presence of litter in all months of the year with a predominant fraction of needles. The difference in altitudes determines the monthly variations in litter fractions in beech forests. Further studies can continue with the study of the chemical composition of the litterfall in order to clarify the cycling of elements.
Three millennia of vegetation history in the Vitosha Mountain, Bulgaria
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-03-18) Tonkov, Spassimir; Marinova, Elena; Gyurova, Dessislava
Pollen analysis supported by radiocarbon dating was performed on a core collected from a peat bog in the central plateau area of the Vitosha Mountain. The palynological data provides information on the vegetation changes over the last three millennia. Between 3000 and 800 years ago forests of Picea abies with some Pinus sp. and less Abies alba dominated on the high slopes of the mountain. Below them were distributed forests of Fagus sylvatica and mixed oak communities with Carpinus betulus, C. orientalis, while Corylus was found on open terrains. In the time interval 800-560 cal. yrs. BP (1150-1400 AD) the spruce forests declined alongside with a slight increase for beech. By that time, the first signs of human activity are justified by an increase for Poaceae, Artemisia, Chenopodiaceae, Cirsium, Plantago lanceolata, Rumex and Juniperus, which points to partial deforestation, forest fires and acquisition of new pasture land. The last centuries witnessed the fragmentation of Picea abies forests, the disappearance of Abies alba, and intensification of the human interference in the vegetation cover particularly on the southern slopes.
Color-based analytical assessment of microplastic contamination in surface waters from the Black Sea (Bulgaria)
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-03-14) Yancheva, Vesela; Stoyanova, Stela; Georgieva, Elenka; Valkanov, Kiril
Microplastic (MP) contamination in surface waters is a growing environmental concern; however, information on MP color and size distribution in the Black Sea remains limited. This pilot study examined surface water samples from five coastal sites along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. The findings establish baseline data on MP color and size characteristics and underscore the need for further research into the environmental behavior and management of colored MPs.
Breeding density and habitat preferences of the European Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur Linnaeus, 1758 (Columbiformes: Columbidae) in Bulgaria: preliminary results
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-01-15) Gruychev, Gradimir; Stoyanov, Stoyan; Angelov, Evlogi; Mihaylov, Hristo
We conducted country-wide surveys from 15 May to 31 July 2022 to quantify singing males’ population size and habitat-specific density of Turtle Dove (Streptopelia turtur). We applied point counts at survey stations situated in 11 plot locations systematically distributed across the country. The average Turtle Dove’s density was estimated as 10.1 singing birds per 1 km2 (λ = 10.084, SE = 0.674, 95% CI: 8.846 – 11.496). The mean detection probability (p) was 0.115 (95% CI: 0.105 – 0.126), and the scale parameter of half-normal detection function was 120 m (σ = 119.74 m, SE = 3.53, 95% CI: 113.03 – 126.86). The effective radius was 169.33 m (95% CI: 159.84 – 179.37). The Turtle Dove densities were influenced by altitude with lower densities in higher elevations. The number of singing males increased from May to July. The abundance was influenced by habitat type and land cover, and it was positively correlated with tree height and shrub height measured around sampling points. The highest densities were recorded around stubbles, sunflower crops, and in a mixture of agricultural land cover, although their importance was insignificant. The density of singing males was higher in open areas, in oak and mixed deciduous forests, and in Paliurus communities as well.
Alkyd resins on the base of waste poly(ethylene terephthalate) and glycerol phase from biodiesel production
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-01-10) Todorov, Nikola
One of the most significant environmental challenges in the modern world is the proper management of wastes and by-products. In the present work, we report the results from our research on the possibility of obtaining alkyd resins based on two waste products - poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) beverage bottles (among the highest-volume wastes in landfills) and the organic substances of the glycerol phase, obtained as a by-product in the canola oil biodiesel production. After treatment with potassium hydroxide and subsequent neutralization, from the organic substances in the glycerol phase, canola oil fatty acids and crude glycerol (80.6% purity) have been obtained. Two PET glycolysis were carried out by the crude glycerol at two different glycerol/PET ratios. A total of three medium oil alkyds were obtained - two based on PET glycosates, canola oil fatty acids and phthalic anhydride, and one reference alkyd based on canola oil, glycerol, phthalic anhydride, and ethylene glycol. The syntheses were carried out using microwave irradiation. Films from all alkyd resins were prepared, and their physical properties, thermal stability, and chemical resistance were investigated. Results showed that the drying time, hardness, abrasion resistance, thermal stability, and chemical resistance of the PET modified alkyd resins are better than those properties of the reference alkyd resin.
Current knowledge on the habitat distribution of freshwater snails (Mollusca: Gastropoda) in Bulgaria
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-02-01) Georgiev, Dilian
This review article proposes a systematic classification of freshwater snail habitats in Bulgaria and synthesizes current data on species distribution across these environments. Based on the Palaearctic Habitat Classification and refined by hydrological and environmental parameters, fourteen distinct habitat types were identified. Analysis reveals that cold-water springs harbor the highest species richness (53 species), followed by eutrophic standing waters (36 species), the Danube River (30 species), and subterranean systems (30 species). In contrast, anthropogenic and oligotrophic mountain habitats exhibit significantly lower diversity, ranging from 2 to 12 species. The findings underscore the critical role of springs and subterranean waters as biodiversity hotspots and provide a foundational ecological framework for the future monitoring and conservation of Bulgaria’s unique malacofauna.
Influence of in vitro cultivation factors on micropropagation and alkaloid determination of Convolvulus persicus L.
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-01-25) Doycheva, Iva; Doncheva, Tsvetelina; Philipov, Stefan
Convolvulus persicus L. is a critically endangered species native to Bulgaria. Studying the conditions for its in vitro cultivation is important for its ex-situ conservation. A number of factors influence the growth, development, and multiplication of in vitro plants. In this study, the effects of several medium components - including the type of gelling agent, the quantity of macrosalts, activated charcoal supplementation, and plant growth regulators - were investigated to determine the most suitable conditions for the in vitro cultivation of the species. The effects of explant type and culture vessels were also examined. The type of gelling agent (Gelrite) and the explant significantly affected culture growth. Culture vessels and plant growth regulators had a smaller influence, while the effect of activated charcoal depended on its combination with the other factors. The quantity of macrosalts did not influence plant growth in vitro. A phytochemical analysis of the alkaloid content of Convolvulus persicus was conducted for the first time. The phytochemical analysis revealed that three alkaloids - nicotine, tropinone, and Nmethylpyrrolidinyl-cuscohygrine - were biosynthesized by C. persicus at two developmental stages. Nicotine was identified as the major alkaloid in the species.
Influence of the urban environment on the metabolic activity and functional diversity of phyllospheric microbial communities in linden trees
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-01-25) Dimitrova, Katya; Spasov, Spas; Nikolov, Bogdan; Shilev, Stefan; Petrova, Slaveya
It has been shown that microorganisms associated with the crown of trees (phyllosphere) can improve their ability to purify the air from pollutants. On the one hand, this is due to the metabolites released by the microorganisms that stimulate the development of trees and their resistance to stress, and on the other hand, the microorganisms themselves also are able to degrade some of the atmospheric pollutants. The aim of the present study was to assess the influence of the urban environment on the metabolic activity and functional diversity of microbial communities in the phyllosphere of linden trees, planted in four experimental plots within the city of Plovdiv (Bulgaria). Each plot is characterized by different anthropogenic load, thus allowing for detection of potential specificity of microbial metabolism. A total of 12 saplings of Tilia tomentosa Moench were planted (3 individuals per plot) and leaf samples were collected after 3-month period in the urban environment. Biolog EcoPlate™ of the BIOLOG system (Biolog, Hayward, CA, USA) was used for estimation of metabolic activity of microbial communities, associated with linden trees. The epiphytic communities isolated from leaf samples of Plot 4 (lowest degree of urbanization) showed the highest average-well color development (AWCD) and substrates` metabolic activity. It was found that microorganisms in the two more strongly affected by the traffic locations (Plot 1 and Plot 3) have a higher rate of carbohydrate assimilation and a lower rate of phenolic compounds assimilation compared to the other two locations. Most of the analyzed functional indices showed higher biodiversity and better distribution of substrate utilization in the epiphytic microflora of the leaves of trees planted on Plot 4 (lowest urbanization intensity).
Prevalence of opportunistic pathogenic Gram-negative bacteria from the Enterobacteriaceae family in the cloacal microflora of Testudo graeca and Testudo hermanni – a pilot study
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2025-12-08) Popova, Steliyana; Lazarkevich, Irina; Engibarov, Stephan; Mitova, Simona; Lalovska, Iva
Reptiles can harbour a variety of zoonotic bacteria in their gut, often asymptomatically. In this study, we report our preliminary data on the occurrence of opportunistic pathogenic Gram-negative bacteria in the cloacal microbiota of tortoises housed in the Rescue, Rehabilitation and Breeding Center in Banya village, Burgas District. A total of 24 healthy adult individuals were sampled: 12 spur-thighed tortoises (Testudo graeca) and 12 Hermann’s tortoises (Testudo hermanni), with equal numbers of each gender. Representatives of 7 genera from Enterobacteriaceae family, known as causative agents of rare but serious infections both in humans and animals, have been identified. The most common bacteria were Klebsiella spp., Salmonella enterica, Citrobacter braakii and Enterobacter cloacae, detected in over 75% of the individuals sampled. Morganella morganii, Pantoaea agglomerans and Escherichia coli were found less frequently, in 20% - 30% of individuals. No significant difference in bacterial load between tortoise species or between sexes was found. The high prevalence of opportunistic pathogens that tortoises host may pose a potential health risk, so strict hygiene practices are recommended when handling animals.
Floating platform for continuous monitoring of surface water quality
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2025-12-11) Popov, Rumen; Tokmakov, Dimitar; Petrova, Slaveya; Nikolov, Bogdan
Monitoring the quality of river water in real time is critical for protecting aquatic life, public health, and the sustainability of our freshwater resources. A Floating Online Monitoring System enables continuous, remote measurement of key water parameters—like pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), turbidity, and contaminants—right at the water’s surface. For this purpose, an automatic, remote measuring station was developed, intended for installation on the floating platform. It is designed for not only collecting and archiving information about the ecological situation along the river, but also periodically forwards the data to a communication server.
Performance evaluation and cross-validation of low-cost particulate matter sensors for environmental research
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2025-12-10) Terziyski. Atanas; Kochev, Nikolay; Tenev, Stoyan; Georgieva, Svetlanna
Particulate monitoring data plays a vital role in supporting analysis, policymaking, and citizen initiatives, especially in areas related to ecology, air quality, public health, and overall quality of life. However, traditional regulatory monitoring systems are expensive and have drawbacks: they do not provide real-time data and cover only a limited number of official locations. As an alternative, low-cost monitoring devices are increasingly being used, but concerns remain regarding their accuracy and the reliability of the data they produce. As part of efforts to validate low-cost monitoring approaches, this work presents the design, implementation, and ongoing development of a low-cost, sensor-based air quality monitoring system dedicated to monitoring fine particulate matter (PM) and other atmospheric indicators within the METER.AC network. The system integrates multiple devices with various sensors, such as Honeywell HPMA115S0, Sensirion SEN55, and related SEN series, along with GPS modules for precise timestamp and geolocation. Data acquisition is synchronized and automated via UNIX shell scripts, which extract, convert, and process measurement data into structured CSV files containing parameters like PM1, PM2.5, PM10, temperature, humidity, etc. Fluke 985 Particle Counter is a high-quality professional device used as an independent benchmark for crossvalidation, providing particle counts for sizes: 0.3, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 5.0, and 10.0 µm. Measurement data are collected at 10-minute intervals and uploaded to a public visualization platform, where interactive graphs and summaries are generated. Also, this study aims to approximate the mass of airborne particulate matter based on particle size distribution derived from the FLUKE device output. On the basis of particle counts, the underlying particle size distribution is estimated with regression models.
AI-supported counselor training for socio-ecological resilience
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2025-12-10) Manolov, Manol
As higher education experiences rapid technological advancements, the integration of intelligent technologies and generative artificial intelligence into counselor training presents a practical approach to bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, while also promoting environmentally sustainable, low-resource, paperless instructional methods. This research introduces an AI-enhanced instructional ecosystem for counseling psychology, which combines HeyGen to simulate therapeutic sessions, Canva for organizing and delivering interactive content, and ChatGPT combined with Designrr to produce customizable, digital workbooks. Prior studies suggest that embedding large language models within course design enhances transversal skills such as critical thinking, structured reasoning, and professional communication; avatar-based storytelling and simulations increase engagement, retention, and analytical depth in university contexts; and personalized digital workbooks support knowledge organization and higher-order cognitive processing. The evaluation used a design-oriented approach that examined workflow usability and material efficiency (e.g., paper savings) for the Canva–HeyGen–Designrr algorithm. Ecologically, the workflow explicitlyprepares trainees to identify and address uncertainty-related eco-anxiety and climate distress through targeted simulations and structured reflective prompts, while its fully digital infrastructure reduces paper consumption by replacing printed vignettes, supervision materials, and journals with reusable electronic resources. The findings suggest that AI-supported, environmentally sustainable training can simultaneously enhance counseling competencies and promote sustainable educational practices, if the energy consumption associated with AI technologies is appropriately monitored and managed within program implementation.
IoT framework for environmental monitoring in Strandzha Nature Park
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2025-11-22) Tokmakov, Dimitar; Bekyarova-Tokmakova, Anna; Asenov, Stanislav; Shotarova, Snezha; Lyubomirov, Slavi
Environmental monitoring plays a critical role in preserving biodiversity and ensuring sustainable management of protected areas. However, traditional monitoring approaches often lack efficiency, precision, and real-time responsiveness. This paper introduces an innovative Internet of Things (IoT) framework specifically designed for environmental monitoring in Strandja Nature Park—a region of significant ecological value located in Bulgaria. The proposed framework integrates advanced sensing technologies, low-power wide-area network (LPWAN) communications (LoRaWAN), and cloud-based analytics to enable real-time tracking of environmental parameters, including air quality, soil moisture, temperature, humidity, and wildlife presence. A practical deployment of the IoT system demonstrates enhanced capabilities in data acquisition, coverage, energy efficiency, and early detection of ecological disturbances. The results highlight significant improvements over conventional methods in terms of accuracy, data granularity, and cost-effectiveness. Ultimately, this framework provides valuable insights for proactive environmental management, paving the way toward a more comprehensive, sustainable, and technologically advanced approach to biodiversity conservation in protected natural regions.
Ecologo-taxonomic investigations of fungi on Dragoica Mountain Ridge (Forebalkan) in Bulgaria
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2025-11-29) Lacheva, Maria; Radoukova, Tzenka
A list of lignicolous and terricolous fungi recorded on Dragoica mountain ridge is given in this article. Here are presented a total of 169 species, mainly from Ascomycota and Basidiomycota, and the largest part of them belong to the orders: Agaricales, Boletales, Hymenochaetales, Polyporales and Russulales. Of these fungi 76 species are reported for the first time from the Forebalkan floristic region, and for 93 species are reported new localities from the Forebalkan floristic region. Eight (8) species includes in the Red List of Fungi in Bulgaria: Agaricus macrocarpus, Amanita caesarea, A. vittadinii, Discina ancilis, Hericium coralloides, Lenzites warnieri, Tuber aestivum and Tulostoma fimbriatum. The research was conducted in different habitats: beech-oak forest, oak forest, beech- hornbeam forest, azonal vegetation and the shrubs along the Batulska river, Panega river and Malki Iskar river, in meadows and pastures. Of the fungi species registered, 95 are lignicolous and 74 are terricolous. Most of lignicolous species are saprobionts (80) and 15 species are parasites. From terricolous fungi, there are 44 mycorrhizal and 30 saprobionts. Some of the species such as Clavaria fumosa, Geastrum schmidelii, Hygrocybe punicea, Leccinum quercinum, Mycena aetites, M. bulbosa, Lepiota erminea and Vuilleminia cystidiata could be highlighted as rare. Other species such as Armillaria mellea, Bovista plumbea, Lactarius piperatus, Cantharellus cibarius, Marasmius oreades, Russula cyanoxantha, Trametes hirsuta, Xerulla radicata, etc. are abundant in certain periods of the year. The xerothermic species – Leucopaxillus lepistoides deserve special attention.
Continuous integrated monitoring of meteorological conditions and air quality dynamics in the urban core of Plovdiv, Bulgaria
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2025-12-01) Paskaleva, Vesselina; Terzyiski, Atanas; Tenev, Stoyan; Kochev, Nikolay
This study provides a comprehensive three-year analysis (2023–2025) of meteorological conditions and air quality parameters in the city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria. The research examines the interactions between temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind characteristics, and fine particulate matter concentrations (PM₂.₅), with the goal of improving the understanding of local atmospheric dynamics and pollution patterns. Recorded temperatures ranged from −7.0°C to 40.4°C. The highest pollution episodes were consistently observed during the coldest months, largely due to intensified household heating combined with reduced atmospheric dispersion under stable winter conditions. Wind speed and direction analyses revealed a significant influence on pollutant dispersion, with lower wind speeds promoting the accumulation of airborne particles, particularly in the city’s low-lying zones. Precipitation intensity varied considerably across the study period, with the most intense events reaching up to 94.73 mm/h. These episodes were associated with temporary reductions in airborne particle concentrations due to effective washout processes. Overall, the results demonstrate a strong interdependence between meteorological variability and air pollution dynamics in Plovdiv.
Preparation and investigation of curcumin-containing PLA composite films for food packaging application
(Plovdiv University Press "Paisii Hilendarski", 2025-12-10) Viraneva, Asya; Grigorov, Aleksandar; Yovcheva, Temenuzhka
Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biocompatible and biodegradable natural polymer known as a promising biopolymer that can be used for food packaging due to its good physical and physicochemical properties. This biopolymer possesses excellent thermal processability, good oxygen barrier capacity, and complete biodegradability, and it is one of the materials used as a food packaging material. PLA has a significant potential for optimizing physical properties through material modifications, including in combination with natural additives as different polyphenols. Polyphenols are a class of naturally occurring compounds found in plants, which exhibit a wide range of beneficial properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. In the present paper PLA PLA-based composite films with incorporated polyphenol curcumin with different concentrations were investigated. PLA composite films were prepared using a solution casting method. The films obtained were charged in a corona discharge. The electret properties of the charged samples were studied. The possible surface potential decay mechanisms responsible for the electret’s behavior were discussed. It was established that the surface potential decay depends on the corona polarity and the type of films.

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