Ecologia Balkanica
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p-ISSN: 1314-0213 / e-ISSN: 1313-9940
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Item Ecological and biochemical aspects of assessment of Cu and Ni pollution of freshwater bodies in the Region of Stara Zagora, Bulgaria – a review(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-04-08) Valkova, Elica; Atanasov, Vasil; Marinova, Margarita; Sirakov, Ivaylo; Velichkova, Katya; Raykov, Violin; Yakimov, Kristian; Kutsarov, Yordan; Kirilov, KirilThe study aims to make an ecological assessment of Cu (copper) and Ni (nickel) pollution of freshwater bodies in the Stara Zagora industrial Region, Bulgaria. A literature reference has been prepared on the concentrations of Cu and Ni at all levels in the food chain: sediment, aquatic plants and fish in the studied region and worldwide. The results of our own research on the amounts of these metals in the sediment and organisms of aquatic biota from water bodies in the region have also been interpreted. When analyzing the obtained data, a negative correlation is established between the accumulation of Cu in the liver of carps inhabiting the Ovcharitsa and Topolnitsa Dams. A dependence of a similar nature is also observed for the element nickel. When comparing the amounts of copper and nickel within the framework of our study, as well as those from other research worldwide, a similar trend is observed regarding the levels of these metals in the liver and musculature of the tested fish. Studies conducted in the Region of Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, and other countries confirmed the ability of hydrobionts to accumulate heavy metals and to be excellent bioindicators for pollution with these toxicants. Global environmental pollution is a prerequisite for continuing research in this area, with other possible environmental markers.Item Comparative analysis of the genetically determined isoenzyme polymorphism in populations of selected Crocus species distributed in Bulgaria(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-04-08) Stoyanov, Ivan; Vasileva, Penka; Stoyanov, Kiril; Raycheva, TsvetankaThe genus Crocus is represented by 15 species in the flora of Bulgaria. The present research is based on isoenzyme analysis, and the genetic heterogeneity in populations of selected species was studied: C. adamioides, C. chrysanthus, C. flavus, C. olivieri, C. pallasii, C. pulchellus, and C. randjeloviciorum. The probable genetic control of four polymorphic enzyme groups - non-specific esterases (EST), malate dehydrogenases (MDH), malic enzymes (ME), and superoxide dismutases (SOD) was established, which appear as suitable markers for characterizing intra- and inter-population genetic variability. Fourteen variable loci were analyzed, and specific biochemical markers were established for distinguishing Crocus species. A comparative analysis of the studied populations' gene pool and genotypic structure was conducted. The results show that malate dehydrogenases, malic enzymes, superoxide dismutases, and non-specific esterases are polymorphic biochemical genetic markers suitable for inter-population comparisons and for studying intra-population heterogeneity in Crocus species.Item Growth and physiological performance of walnut plants grafted during winter dormancy and grown in containers(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-04-01) Dimitrov, Angel; Akova, Vanya; Nacheva, Lilyana; Gandev, StefanThe study was carried out at the Fruit Growing Institute of Plovdiv (Bulgaria) during the period 2019-2022. The growth and physiological performance of walnut plants (Juglans regia L. ‘Izvor 10’) propagated during winter dormancy by the methods of cleft and whip/tongue grafting, grown in containers, were monitored, comparing them with those of walnut plants grafted following the standard technology of patch budding, grown in a nursery. The plants grown in a nursery were 120.4 to 122 cm in height and those grown in containers were characterized by lower average values – from 76.2 to 111 cm. The values for the stem cross-sectional area of the plants grown in the nursery varied from 349.9 to 379.7 mm2 and they were higher than those grown in containers (from 88.2 to 221.8 mm2). Higher values for the root system volume were reported for the plants grown in containers (283 – 294.4 cm3), the differences being statistically significant. Plants grown in containers had a normally developed and functioning photosynthetic apparatus. No differences in chlorophyll fluorescence parameters were reported between patch-budded and container-grown plants.Item Evaluating polystyrene nanoparticle toxicity in eelgrass: impacts on photosynthetic efficiency, oxidative stress, and DNA integrity(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-05-28) Hienva, Elitsa; Dzhembekova, Nina; Ivanova, Petya; Tsvetanova, Elina; Georgieva, Almira; Alexandrova, Albena; Stamatova, HristianaMicro- and nanoplastic pollution is ubiquitous in marine and coastal areas with the potential to impact valuable ecosystems, such as seagrass meadows. One of the important questions in seagrass ecology today is whether micro- and nanoplastics could seriously threaten seagrass health, and which parameters would be the best to observe such impacts. As a part of this research necessity, we have explored the effect of pure polystyrene nanoparticles on the maximum quantum yield of PSII, oxidative stress parameters, and DNA integrity on leaves of Zostera marina L. fragments, under controlled conditions. The three different indicator types are not negatively impacted when eelgrass fragments are subjected to a short time exposure (> 10 days). To find the most responsive indicators for micro- and nanoplastics impacts, further studies on a variety of metrics, operating at different seagrass structure levels and time frames, are necessary.Item Overview in representatives of Rumex and Persicaria (Polygonaceae Juss.) in the flora of Bulgaria(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-04-10) Raycheva, Tsvetanka; Stoyanov, Kiril; Raycheva, Teodora; Karaycheva, Gergana; Mladenov, Rumen; Stoyanov, PlamenThe taxonomy of Rumex L. and Persicaria Mill. has been the subject of revisions for decades. The high morphological similarity between closely related taxa is probably due to a recent divergence and subsequent process of intensive speciation. As a result, complex species aggregates have formed in the genera Rumex and Persicaria. Hybridization processes, aided by their broad ecological plasticity and adaptation in anthropogenically influenced habitats, are major factors for the dynamic occupation of pioneer sites, with the potential to become aggressive weeds. This requires clarification and knowledge of the species diversity in these groups, which are an important component of the floras of many countries worldwide. As a result of recent studies, new hybrids of the genus Rumex have been discovered for our flora. This is an indication that the number of hybrids is greater than indicated in the summarized publications on the Bulgarian flora. Furthermore, the lack of taxonomic studies creates a need to reassess the phylogenetic relationships and status of taxa in the polymorphic, non-monophyletic groups of Rumex and Persicaria in our country.Item New data on the bats (Mammalia: Chiroptera) of the Drinos Valley, Vjosa Wild River National Park Southern Albania(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-03-18) Bruhat, Lionel; Olivier, Anthony; Mallet, Pierre; Thibault, MarcAlbania's bat fauna is rich but still poorly studied and subject to numerous pressures. One immediate pressure includes the plans to build hydroelectric dams on the Vjosa River and its tributaries, recently classified as a national park. This study was part of an international movement to improve knowledge of both a taxonomic group and a geographical area that have not been studied extensively, to take them into account for conservation purposes. In June 2022, 15 passive bat acoustic sampling sites were set up in four distinct sectors along the Drinos and Suha Rivers, two tributaries of the Vjosa. The Drinos River was included within the national park boundaries in 2023. These recordings were analyzed using automatic identification software and manually verified. Our study identified 16 of the 32 species known to occur in Albania, of which four had fewer than 25 previous records in Albania: Myotis bechsteinii, Myotis emarginatus, Myotis nattereri, and Rhinolophus blasii. Our results highlight a high level of activity observed at the sampling sites and the importance of alluvial and riparian hydroecosystems for bats. This study supports the need to take bats into account in the management plans and projects of the Vjosa Wild River National Park. It also produced 135 additional bat records for the country, adding to the 1243 national records.Item Ecological and technogenic safety and phytomelioration of degraded landscapes of a limestone quarry(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-04-28) Shukel, Igor; Boiko, Taras; Popovych, Vasyl; Kobko, Yevhen; Nitsevych, Olesia; Kobko, Roman; Korol, KaterynaThe reclamation of degraded lands, particularly limestone quarries, is a critical ecological task aimed at restoring soil cover and forming stable phytocenoses. This study evaluates the effectiveness of phytomelioration measures through an analysis of changes in the physicochemical properties of soil and plant composition. The results showed that, after reclamation, humus content increased by 15%, contributing to improved soil structure and water retention capacity. Soil acidity (pH) rose from 4.5 to 6.1, creating favorable conditions for the development of mesophytic and eutrophic species. The concentration of macronutrients significantly increased: nitrogen from 12.3 mg/kg to 24.7 mg/kg, phosphorus from 9.8 mg/kg to 20.3 mg/kg, and potassium from 85 mg/kg to 150 mg/kg, positively affecting plant cover productivity. Phytocenosis analysis revealed an increase in meadow-steppe communities from 24.69% to 31.82% and eutrophic species from 22.22% to 34.55%, indicating ecosystem stabilization. The planting of tree species (Pinus sylvestris, Robinia pseudoacacia, Quercus robur) contributed to soil stabilization, reduced erosion processes, and the gradual formation of forest ecosystems. The results confirm the effectiveness of phytomelioration in restoring technogenically disturbed lands. Future research should focus on long-term monitoring of successional changes and the impact of reclamation measures on soil biogeochemical processes.Item Linear-weight relationship of the species Carcinus aestuarii Nardo, 1847 (Decapoda: Brachyura: Carcinidae) along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-05-12) Uzuniva, Sonya; Mitov, PlamenAim of the present study was to establish the growth of the decapod crustacean Carcinus aestuarii Nardo, 1847, for the Bulgarian Black Sea area. Biometric measurements of specimens sampled by diving and trawling were compared. Averaged values for carapace length (in cm) of the specimens collected by diving and trawling are relatively similar (4.25±0.856, against 4.92±0.064). Data for carapace mean width varied from 5.56±1.11 to 6.34±0.873 cm. Weight ranged from 8.5 to 167.86 g. Minimal values for size and weight were observed in the specimens collected by diving, and the maximum in the trawl discards. Positive allometric growth was observed in most cases, except for the total pool of discards and, in particular, for male individuals. Further detailed investigations on a monthly and seasonal basis are required to understand the complexity of factors influencing the populations of Carcinus aestuarii and its response to environmental changes.Item First comprehensive study on the tetrapod fauna of “Byala Krava” Reserve, Central Balkan Mtns., Bulgaria(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-05-12) Popova, Steliyana; Popova, Elitsa; Dolapchiev, Nikolay; Petrov, Petar; Zlatanova, Diana; Grozdanov, AtanasThe “Byala krava” Reserve is located in the easternmost part of the Central Balkan Mountains, within the administrative boundaries of Elena Municipality, Bulgaria. It covers an area of 93.4 hectares and is entirely situated within the EU Natura 2000 network site BG0000211 “Tvardishka Planina.” Despite its relatively small size, the reserve is characterized by a mosaic of mountain forest habitats and rocky formations, which contribute to high ecological heterogeneity and potential for species richness. Previous records have indicated the presence of numerous vertebrate species, including those with national and European conservation status. The current study, conducted between May and September 2024, aimed to provide an updated inventory of the vertebrate fauna and assess potential conservation threats. Standardized field methods included transect walks for visual and acoustic detection of amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals, along with the use of box traps for small mammals, camera traps for medium and large mammals, and ultrasonic detectors for bats. A total of 55 vertebrate species were documented, comprising 4 amphibians, 1 reptile, 33 bird species, and 17 mammal species, several of which are of conservation concern at national and international levels. In addition to biodiversity data, several anthropogenic pressures were recorded in the surrounding areas, including logging in adjacent areas, poaching, and recreational disturbance. These factors may contribute to habitat degradation and species displacement. The findings emphasize the importance of continuous monitoring and the implementation of targeted management measures to mitigate human impacts and ensure the long-term conservation of the reserve’s biological diversity.Item Batrachophagy of the Eastern Grass Snake, Natrix natrix (Linnaeus, 1758), in Bulgaria: published data and new records(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-05-12) Mitrevichin, Emanuil; Sakelarieva, Lidia; Peshev, Hristo; Grozdanov, Atanas; Pulev, AlexanderThe food spectrum of Natrix natrix in Bulgaria remains understudied, despite the few works on this topic. We summarize all data reported in the literature on the batrachophagy of the species in the country and provide 17 new observations. The results indicated that N. natrix has a wide food spectrum and may feed on at least 11 amphibian species. Pelophylax ridibundus was the most preferred prey. Rana dalmatina and Bufo bufo were also important components of the diet. In some areas, Salamandra salamandra may be more frequent prey for N. natrix than previously thought. However, most of the amphibian species, including Triturus ivanbureschi, Bombina variegata, Pelobates balcanicus, and Rana temporaria, were consumed less frequently. These findings can have important implications for the conservation of the species. Yet, further research on the feeding ecology of N. natrix in Bulgaria is needed to better understand its ecological requirements and to support effective conservation planningItem Prevention as an investment: analysis of costs and damages from forest fires in Bulgaria (2014–2024)(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-05-08) Stoyanov, TodorIn the context of increasing climate change, forest fires present a growing risk to society, the economy, and biodiversity. Comparing funds invested in preventive measures with the damages caused by fires underscores the need for systematic and long-term financing of fire prevention activities. This study analyzes the relationship between investments in forest fire prevention and the damages caused in Bulgaria during 2014–2024. Based on statistical data, institutional reports, and European experience, the study evaluates prevention costs and firerelated losses. The main contribution of this research is the development of an integrated methodological framework for assessing forest fire damage, combining environmental, economic, and social indicators. Results show that prevention is economically justified, with long-term savings significantly exceeding initial investments. The study concludes with recommendations for sustainable financing, improved institutional coordination, and the implementation of a unified national methodology.Item New data on chamois Rupicapra rupicapra balcanica Bolkay, 1925 (Mammalia: Bovidae) in the Eastern Stara Planina Mts Bulgaria(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-04-09) Dolapchiev, Nikolay; Tsevtkova, Mihaela; Chanev, MilenThe Balkan chamois Rupicapra rupicapra balcanica Bolkay, 1925 has a highly fragmented distribution in the mountainous regions of the Balkan Range, including Bulgaria. In 2021, the Balkan chamois was recorded in two locations outside its known distribution range, i.e., in the natural park “Sinite Kamani”, eastern Stara Planina Mts. This is the first hard evidence of the presence of the species in the Eastern Stara Planina Mts. Two new records of Balkan chamois were documented in two different parts of the nature park in the second half of 2025. In the second record, it was observed among a herd of stray grazing domestic goats.Item Railway network of Southern Bulgaria as a pathway for the introduction and spread of alien invasive plants(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-05-08) Karaycheva, GerganaThe railway networks and its adjacent areas represent important corridors for the introduction and secondary spread of alien plant species. Most of them possess high adaptive potential and expand rapidly into non-native environments. As a result, they often become invasive and cause substantial ecological disruption on a global scale. Therefore, the aim of this study was to document the floristic composition of 37 railway stations in Southern Bulgaria and to identify alien invasive plants (AIP). As a result of observation, a total of 413 vascular plant taxa were recorded. The species richness was recorded in Asteraceae (67 species), followed by Poaceae (45 species) and Fabaceae (33 species), respectively. A moderate level of species was observed in Brassicaceae (20 species), Lamiaceae (18 species), Plantaginaceae (17 species), and Rosaceae (17 species). Based on phytogeographic characteristics, predominant Euro-Asian (17.05%) and Euro-Mediterranean (15.01%) elements, while AIP were 11.45% from total recorded flora. Overall, the highest numbers of AIP were recorded at stations by intensive railway traffic, the presence of abandoned wagons, and poorly maintained surrounding areas. Most of alien taxa originated from North America (40.91%), followed by Asia (13.64%) and South America (11.36%). Generally, the high proportion of AIP identified confirms that the railway network is a major route for plant invasions. The results of this study provide scientific information for future monitoring and the development of management measures targeting alien plant species.Item The impact of potassium chloride (KCl) on germination and seedling growth of Aegilops neglecta Req. ex Bertol.: implications for salinity tolerance(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-05-08) Desheva, Gergana; Deshev, Manol; Valchinova, Evgeniya; Pencheva, Albena; Kyosev, Bozhidar; Petrović, GordanaSoil salinity poses a significant threat to global agriculture, impacting crop productivity and land sustainability. Understanding the mechanisms of salt tolerance in wild relatives of crops holds the key to developing salt-resilient varieties. This study investigates the effects of potassium chloride (KCl), a common salt contributing to soil salinity, on the germination and seedling growth of Aegilops neglecta Req. ex Bertol, a wild relative of wheat. Seeds were subjected to varying concentrations of KCl (0 mM, 50 mM, 100 mM, 150 mM, 200 mM, 250 mM, and 300 mM) in controlled laboratory conditions. Germination percentage, germination rate, seedling length (shoot and root), and seedling dry weight were assessed. The results revealed a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect of KCl on all measured parameters. KCl significantly inhibits the germination and seedling growth in the studied genotypes of A. neglecta Req. ex Bertol. The observed reductions in germination percentage, germination rate, root length, shoot length, and biomass accumulation are indicative of the stressful effects of KCl on plant development. However, Aegilops neglecta exhibits some degree of tolerance to KCl stress, suggesting the presence of underlying salt tolerance mechanisms. Based on the integrated analysis of tolerance and susceptibility indices, genotype BGR43687 was identified as highly tolerant to salinity stress, suggesting its potential utilization as a valuable source for salt tolerance genes in wheat breeding programs.Item Protective effect of modified natural clinoptilolite against lead-induced genotoxicity in laboratory mice(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-05-08) Beltcheva, Maria; Aleksieva, Iliana; Chassovnikarova, TsenkaLead (Pb) is a potent toxic and genotoxic metal that accumulates in mammalian tissues, induces oxidative stress, and disrupts genomic integrity. Creating effective strategies to reduce Pb bioavailability and lessen its harmful effects remains a key priority in toxicology. This study examined the impact of 15, 30, and 45 days of sub-chronic Pb exposure on tissue accumulation, fecal elimination, and genotoxicity in ICR (CD-1) mice, as well as the potential protective role of a specifically activated, Na-modified natural clinoptilolite from the “Beli Plast” deposit (Eastern Rhodopes, Bulgaria). Three experimental groups were established: a control group, a Pbexposed group (PbW) receiving 0.00125 M Pb(NO₃)₂, and a Pb-exposed+clinoptilolite (PbW+Z) group fed a diet containing 12.5 wt.% clinoptilolite. ICP-MS was used to measure Pb levels in liver, kidney, and feces, and genotoxic effects were assessed using an in vivo micronucleus assay in peripheral erythrocytes. Pb exposure also induced a time-dependent increase in micronucleus frequency, reflecting cumulative genotoxic damage. Micronucleus frequency was markedly elevated in Pb-exposed mice but significantly reduced at all time points when clinoptilolite was present, suggesting protection against Pb-induced genomic instability. Overall, zeolite effectively reduced the total burden of Pb in organisms, increased fecal elimination, and reduced Pb-induced genotoxicity. These findings emphasize zeolite as a promising low-cost protective sorbent for reducing heavy metal toxicity and preventing long-term biological damage for organisms chronically exposed to lead.Item First record of Balkan chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra balcanicа Bolkay, 1925) in Gornata Кoriya Reserve, Northwestern Bulgaria(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-05-10) Petrov, AlexanderThis short note presents the first record of a Balkan chamois in the Berkovitsa region. The study was conducted using camera traps placed in the Goranta Koriya Reserve in Berkovitsa municipality. The photo shows a male specimen in an old forest. There are several possibilities regarding its presence in this part of the Balkan Mountains: a wandering animal from a nearby population or a specimen from a reintroduction attempt.Item The use of small UAVs in precision agriculture and their impact on the environment and birds(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-05-08) Atanasov, AsparuhThis study focuses on the impact on birds and the environment of using small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones for the needs of precision agriculture. For the period 2019-2025, 385 flights were carried out over agricultural areas in the region of Southern Dobruja, Republic of Bulgaria. Many of the flights were carried out 100m above the field at a speed of 10m/s along a meandering trajectory. The conducted studies found that no disturbance was observed on the part of the flying or nesting birds. Only one case of an attack attempt by a bird of prey was observed, but there was no collision. The measured noise pollution shows very low levels. The study proves that small quadcopter-type UAVs are an indispensable assistant to farmers, and no impact on the environment was recorded during the study.Item The role of local varieties in the context of biodiversity conservation(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-05-08) Velcheva, Nikolaya; Mendel, Lubomir; Čičová, Iveta; Zetochová, ErikaIn the last few decades, a huge number of old and traditional varieties have been replaced by new commercial varieties. Under these circumstances, an approach for biodiversity conservation by using two strategies: in situ/on-farm and ex-situ preservation, represents a research priority. International collaboration between genebanks has become crucial in ensuring the global conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources in the framework of maintaining compatibility and interoperability in the European area. The Green Deal promotes ecological practices that have a positive impact on the protection of biological resources and support agricultural systems in climate change. The purpose of the study is to improve documentation and visibility in the national genebanks of Bulgaria and Slovakia due qualitatively exchange of experience and establishing a joint research plan based on their long-standing mission of storage and use of plant diversity. By expeditions for local accessions in the rural areas and international germplasm exchange using the Standard Material Transfer Agreement, the diversity of the National collections is increased, following the priorities of the EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030. The results of the project help valorisation of plant gene pool through open access to ex situ collections databases for promoting the role of local varieties in biodiversity conservation and meeting the farmers’ needs. The Bulgarian and Slovakian genebank collections are documented by FAO/Bioversity descriptors and published in the European catalogue EURISCO (http://eurisco.ecpgr.org). They are presented with a valuable amount of seed duplicates in the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. The research is based on the cooperation project DIGIVALPGR.Item A temperature-driven modelling framework for mosquito seasonal phenology and generational dynamics in temperate urban environments of the Balkan region(Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski", 2026-04-10) Dimitrov, Nikolay; Todorov, NikolaUnderstanding the seasonal dynamics of mosquito populations in temperate urban environments is essential for predicting vector emergence, estimating generational turnover, and anticipating climate-driven shifts in phenology. This study presents a temperature-driven modelling framework that integrates degree-day accumulation, photoperiod-controlled seasonal activity, and density-dependent population regulation to simulate the seasonal development of Culex pipiens L. and Aedes albopictus (Skuse) under temperate Balkan conditions. The model distinguishes between two biologically meaningful metrics: developmental generations (egg-toadult completion) and realised reproductive generations (egg-to-adult-to-first oviposition), thereby linking phenology to reproductive potential. Seasonal activity is constrained using ecologically defined thresholds of mean daily temperature and daylength, ensuring biologically realistic onset and termination of development. A carrying capacity term is incorporated to prevent unrealistic exponential growth and to approximate density-dependent regulation in urban habitats. Using a typical temperate climatic year, we evaluate baseline seasonal dynamics and explore a +1°C warming scenario to quantify shifts in active season length and generational turnover. Results indicate that modest temperature increases can extend the active window and increase the number of completed generations, particularly when reproductive maturation is considered. The proposed framework provides a transparent and transferable tool for assessing mosquito seasonal dynamics in temperate regions and can be readily extended to incorporate additional environmental drivers where required.Item 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, TzenkaThe 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.