Scientific Bulletin of the Uzhhorod University. Series Biology

CYTOTOXIC EFFECT OF HERBICIDES “URAGAN” AND “OBERIG” ON ROOT MERISTEMS OF ALLIUM CEPA AND ALLIUM PORRUM

O. Voitovych — 2025-05-30

The work presents the results of a study of the cytotoxic effect of the herbicides “Uragan” and “Oberig”.The aim of the work was to study the character and frequency of mitosis disorders and chromosomal aberrations induced by these herbicides. The object of the study were the cells of the apical meristems of roots of two speciesof plants of the genus Allium: Allium cepa L. and Allium porrum L. The experiment used 0.1 %, 1 % and 2 % solutions of the herbicide “Uragan” (active ingredient – glyphosate) and 0.08 %, 0.75 % and 1.5 % solutions of the herbicide “Oberig” (active ingredient – khizalofop-P-ethyl). The seedlings were exposed to 24 and 48 hoursof exposure in the solutions. Cytogenetic analysis was performed using the standard Allium test method. As a resultof the study, changes in the organization and morphology of chromosomes were observed in the root tip cells of both species. Chromosomal aberrations were recorded at different stages of the cell cycle, including binucleated cells, micronuclei, bridges, chromosome fragments, chromosome lag, anaphase delay, and k-mitosis. The totalnumber of chromosome aberrations increased with increasing herbicide concentration and exposure time. Themaximum values were observed at 48-hour exposure in a 2 % solution of the herbicide “Uragan” and a 1.5 % solution of the herbicide “Oberig”. At the same time, a species-specific response to the stress factor is observed.The frequency of mitotic pathologies in Allium cepa cells is higher under the influence of “Uragan”, while Allium porrum cells showed greater sensitivity to “Oberig”. The herbicides “Uragan” and “Oberig” showed a cytotoxic effect on root cells of both onion species, which was manifested in an increase in the number of cells with pathologicalprocesses or structures. The most common anomalies were the appearance of micronuclei and binucleation. Thedependence of the type of disorders on the chemical nature of the herbicide was revealed. The results obtained confirm the cytotoxic potential of the studied herbicides and indicate the need to take into account the species- specific characteristics of plants when assessing their sensitivity to agrochemicals.

COMPARISON OF ADHESIVE PROPERTIES OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS AND ESCHERICHIA COLI STRAINS ISOLATED FROM THE VAGINAS OF MICE IN NORMAL AND WITH DYSBIOSIS

Y. Vorobiei — 2025-05-30

The work investigated 34 strains of Staphylococcus aureus and 24 strains of Escherichia coli isolated from the reproductive tract of healthy mice and mice with vaginal dysbiosis. From animals without signs of pathology, 9 strains of S. aureus and 1 strain identified as E. coli were isolated. From animals with vaginal dysbiosis induced by intravaginal administration of a film-forming strain of S. aureus, 14 strains of S. aureus and 12 strains of E. coli were isolated. From animals with vaginal dysbiosis induced by intravaginal administration of a non-film-forming strain of S. aureus, 11 strains of S. aureus and 11 strains of E. coli were isolated. This indicates a greater species diversity of opportunistic microorganisms under conditions of dysbiosis. The increase in the number of representatives of 1 strain of S. aureus as a result of the induction of dysbiosis led to the facilitation of colonization of the biotope by other strains of this species and even other types of bacteria, in particular E. coli.It was determined that more pronounced adhesive properties were possessed by strains isolated in dysbiosis caused by intravaginal administration of a film-forming strain of S. aureus. Thus, among staphylococci, strains with average adhesiveness indices (50.0 %) prevailed, 35.7 % of strains were highly adhesive, 14.3 % were low-adhesive. The average adhesion index ranged from 1.36 ± 0.48 to 4.00 ± 0.78. The erythrocyte participation factor was 79.64 ± 2.65 %, and the adhesion index of microorganisms varied from 1.81 to 5.19. Among Escherichia coli strains, 75.0 % were highly adhesive, and 25.5 % were medium-adhesive. Average adhesion index ranged from 3.02 ± 0.74 to 4.96 ± 0.78.Erythrocyte participation factor was 84.00 ± 2.95 %, and adhesion index of microorganisms ranged from 3.55 to 6.12.This indicates their higher pathogenicity potential due to increased colonization ability of vaginal mucosal surfaces.

ANAEROBIC ENERGY PRODUCTION IN HIGHLAND YOUNG MALES FROM ZAKARPATTIA OF DIFFERENT SOMATOTYPES

O. Dulo — 2025-05-30

The study is dedicated to investigating the characteristics of the development of anaerobic lactate and anaerobic alactate energy supply systems for muscular activity in 17- to 21-year-old highland young males of different somatotypes residing in the mountainous regions of Zakarpattia. All participants had no prior experience in sports. Anaerobic productivity indicators were assessed using cycle ergometer tests. The study employed the 10-second and 30-second Wingate anaerobic tests and the 60-second anaerobic test by Shogy and Cherebetiu. Both absolute and relative values were determined. Somatotype classification was conducted using the Heath-Carter method. For this purpose, height, body mass, skinfold thickness, transverse diameters, and circumferential measurements of specific body parts were recorded.The study established that the most common somatotypes among highland young males in Zakarpattia are mesomorphic, endomesomorphic, mesoectomorphic, ectomorphic, and balanced. Representatives of different somatotypes exhibited significant differences in the power of anaerobic lactate and alactate energy supply processes and in the capacity of anaerobic lactate energy supply processes for muscular activity. Individuals with predominant mesomorphy demonstrated the highest power indicators for anaerobic alactate and lactate productivity, while those with predominant ectomorphy had the lowest values. In terms of anaerobic lactate productivity capacity, individuals with a dominant ectomorphic component showed the highest values, whereas the lowest values were characteristic of individuals with an endomesomorphic somatotype, where endomorphy prevailed. The power of the anaerobic alactate and lactate energy supply systems, in both absolute and relative terms, was highest in representatives of the mesomorphic somatotype. Meanwhile, the absolute capacity of anaerobic lactate productivity was highest in individuals with a mesoectomorphic somatotype, while the relative capacity was highest in representatives of the ectomorphic somatotype.

SPONTANEOUS VASCULAR PLANTS FLORA OF PARKS ASSEMBLES OF THE “SAINT MIKLOSH” CASTLE (CHYNADIYOVO VILLAGE, ZAKARPATTIA OBLAST)

V. Kolomiychuk — 2025-05-30

The results of the study of the diversity of wild and cultivated vascular plants of the park ensemble of the castle “Saint Miklosh” (Chynadiyovo village, Mukachevo raion, Zakarpattia Oblast) are presented: the species composition is established, a brief historical background is given, as well as the nature of the park plantings, the results of the structural (systematic, life forms, geographical, ecological and coenotic) and fractional (by time and method of introduction, primary range, degree of naturalization of alien species) analyses, the peculiarity of the flora were clarified, and an annotated summary was compiled. The phytodiversity of the analyzed park complex consists of 221 species, subspecies and varieties of vascular plants, including 148 species of the natural flora fraction, 70 – alien flora fraction, and 3 more cultivated species that are close to escaping cultivation. In the life forms spectrum of the flora, more than half are perennials (54.7 %), somewhat less – small annuals (28.4 %), while in the alien fraction, the opposite order is observed – short-lived (64.4 %) prevail, fewer perennials (27.1 %), and there are no shrubs and subshrubs. The geographical spectrum of the aboriginal flora fraction is quite diverse and is represented by 10 geoelements, its basis is approximately equally, although with a slight advantage, made up of Eurasian and Palearctic (21.6 % each), European-sub-Mediterranean (19.6 %) and European (17.6 %) elements. The coenotic spectrum of species of both fractions also differs significantly: in the aboriginal one, species of the meadow flora complex prevail (29.7 %), somewhat less of the nodal forest (21.6 %), synanthropic (mainly ruderal, 18.2 %) and forest (16.9 %), while in the alien one, the largest number of species of the synanthropic flora complex (82.9 %) and significantly less of the meadow (11.4 %). In the alien fraction of the analyzed flora, kenophytes (55.7 %) prevail by time of introduction, xenophytes (68.6 %) by ways of introduction, epoecophytes by degree of naturalization, and the species of Sub-Mediterranean origin (55.8 %), somewhat less – Asian (20.0 %) and American (17.1 %) one.

BIOACCUMULATION OF 40K IN DIFFERENT FISH SPECIES OF RIVER ECOSYSTEMS OF ZHYTOMYR POLISSIA

R. Makhinko — 2025-05-30

The article presents the results of a comprehensive study of bioaccumulation of the natural radionuclide 40K in tissues of four commercial fish species (silver carp Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, common carp Cyprinus carpio, crucian carp Carassius auratus, pike Esox lucius) caught in the Zdvyzh River of Zhytomyr region in January 2025.A comparative analysis of 40K concentration in different anatomical parts of fish – edible part (muscle tissue) and head with internal organs – was conducted. Measurement of specific activity of 40K was performed by gamma spectrometry using certified equipment according to international standards. It was established that the highest indicators of specific activity of 40K were recorded in predatory fish species – pike (156.00 Bq/kg in muscle tissue and 113.00 Bq/kg in head with internal organs), while in herbivorous and omnivorous species (silver carp, common carp) these indicators were significantly lower (85.80 and 62.90 Bq/kg in muscle tissue, respectively). A pattern of 0K concentration predominantly in muscle tissue compared to the head and internal organs was revealed for all studied fish species, which differs from the distribution pattern of technogenic radionuclides. The greatest difference in concentration between anatomical body parts was recorded in pike (38.1 %) and silver carp (43.5 %), while for common carp and crucian carp this difference was 17.1 % and 18.8 %, respectively. It has been demonstrated that, unlike technogenic radionuclides (137Cs, 90Sr), which typically accumulate in bone tissue and internal organs, 40K as a physiologically active element concentrates mainly in muscle tissue. Statistical analysis of the data confirms the species specificity of 40K accumulation, which is related to trophic specialization and metabolic characteristics of different fish species. The recorded levels of 40K content are within the regional background values for water bodies of Ukrainian Polissia. The obtained results are important for assessing the radioecological state of aquatic ecosystems in the long term after the Chornobyl accident and can be used for monitoring the quality of aquaticbioresources and developing recommendations for their safe use.

SPATIAL AND BIOTOPIC DISTRIBUTION OF RARE ANIMAL SPECIES IN THE TRIBUTARIES OF THE IRPIN RIVER BASIN (NORTHERN UKRAINE)

M. Prychepa — 2025-05-30

The conservation of biodiversity in transformed riverine systems is one of the key challenges in modern ecology, particularly under conditions of urbanization, agricultural expansion, and climate change.This study aimed to assess the spatial patterns of rare animal species distribution within small river systems using the Irpin River basin as a case study, and to identify the ecological factors that determine their presence. Between 2020 and 2025, faunal inventories were conducted in 18 tributaries of the Irpin River, revealing 45 species listed in the Red Data Book of Ukraine. Most of these species were associated with aquatic (21 species), forest (12 species), and wetland (9 species) habitats.The highest richness of rare species was recorded in fish farming ponds (e.g., Nivka, Bobrytsia) and in mosaically structured landscapes of the Unava, Bucha, and Kudelia river valleys, where forested, wetland, meadow, and shrub habitats coexist. In contrast, the lowest numbers of species (1–6 species) were found at sites dominated by homogeneous biotopes or extensive urban landscapes. One of the most striking patterns was the concentration of rare species in the valleys of the Irpin’s right-bank tributaries.It was found that even under urbanized and agricultural conditions, stable assemblages of rare species can persist if remnants of natural habitats or artificially created cascade ponds (fish farms) are present. The highest species richness was consistently associated with river valleys maintaining complex spatial and biotopic structures.The results highlight the crucial role of small rivers as biodiversity hotspots and as structural components of ecological networks. The data obtained may serve as a foundation for the designation of new protected areas and for the planning of conservation actions aimed at preserving key habitats and ecological corridors in regionssubject to high anthropogenic pressure.

MORPHOLOGICAL ANALYSIS AND PATHOLOGICAL CHANGES OF ERYTHROCYTES OF GOBIIDAE FISH OF THE GENUS PONTICOLA ILJIN, 1927

I. Ryzhko — 2025-05-30

Goby fish of the genus Ponticola in the Black Sea ecosystem play a rather important role, and are also objects of amateur fishing. However, a small number of scientific studies have been devoted to their study. Literary data on blood pathologies of Ponticola species are generally absent, as such studies are more often conducted on modelorganisms or commercially important species.The work presents the results of a morphological analysis and the study of pathological changes in erythrocytesand their nuclei for the Pinchuk’s goby Ponticola cephalargoides (Pinchuk, 1976), the ratan goby Ponticola ratan (Nordmann, 1840), and the ginger goby Ponticola eurycephalus (Kessler, 1874), caught during the summer-autumn period of 2023 in the Odessa Bay of the Black Sea. Blood for erythrocyte studies was taken from the tail vein and fixed using standard methods.The presence of young, mature erythrocytes, and cells with pathological changes in the circulating blood of all representatives of the genus Ponticola was revealed. Erythrocytes of Pinchuk’s goby were the largest in terms of basic morphometric parameters, and the highest frequency of erythrocytes with pathological changes wasestablished for the blood of the ginger goby.The most common pathologies for representatives of the genus Ponticola are nuclear changes (bean-shaped, lobular) and arbitrary cell deformation.The increased frequency and significant variety of pathological changes in erythrocytes in all studied species of the genus Ponticola indicate the existing negative impact of environmental factors.

SELECTION FOR SALT TOLERANCE IN CALLUS CULTURE OF OIL FLAX

A. Soroka — 2025-05-30

Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) represents a crop of substantial agronomic and economic significance, with its derivatives utilized across multiple industrial sectors. It is predominantly esteemed for its seeds, which are abundant in alpha- linolenic acid, a type of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid. However, the cultivation range of flax is constrained by its pronounced sensitivity to saline environments. Among the innovative strategies to develop salt-tolerant genotypes, in vitro cell selection stands out as a promising approach. This study was aimed to evaluate the feasibility of obtaining oilseed flax genotypes tolerant to sodium chloride (NaCl) through callus culture methodology. Two genetically distinct flax varieties, namely Zaporizkyi bohatyr and Evryka, served as the experimental material.Segments of callus tissue were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) and N6 media supplemented with NaCl at concentrations of 0.3 %, 0.6 %, 0.9 %, and 1.2 %. Following the cultivation period, the proportion of necrotic calli and the capacity for cellular proliferation were evaluated. Subsequently, the morphogenetic potential of callus tissue was evaluated under saline conditions, and the regenerants were evaluated for their ability to withstand salt- induced stress. The morphogenetic response of callus was assessed under sodium chloride concentrations of 0.3 % and 0.6 % by quantifying the proportion of callus samples exhibiting regeneration zones. To determine the efficacy of selection pressure, regenerated shoots with residual callus were transferred to MS medium containing 0.2 % and 0.4 % NaCl. Parameters such as the survival rate and continued growth of shoots, presence of necrotic lesions, and shoot etiolation were recorded. The results indicated that a sodium chloride concentration of 0.3 % was optimal for in vitro selection. Elevated salinity levels adversely affected callus viability, resulting in inhibited callus growth, disrupted development, and tissue degradation. Selection pressure applied at 0.3 % NaCl enhanced the frequency of salt-tolerant regenerants, as evidenced under subsequent exposure to 0.2 % NaCl. In Zaporizkyi bohatyr variety, the survival rate of regenerated shoots that successfully survived under salt stress conditions was 36.7 %, compared to 13.3 % in the control group where selection was not performed. For Evryka variety, the respective figures were 28.0 % and 4.0 %. At a sodium chloride concentration of 0.4 %, the few surviving shoots exhibited no further development and ultimately perished. Selection at NaCl concentrations exceeding 0.3 % resulted in pronounced suppression of the morphogenetic capacity of callus tissue, rendering it incapable of producing viable shoots.The tested flax genotypes demonstrated considerable variability in their physiological response to salt-induced stress, with Zaporizkyi bohatyr variety displaying superior adaptability.

FEATURES OF VEGETATIVE PROPAGATION OF THUJA OCCIDENTALIS L. ’WAGNERI’

O. Usoltseva — 2025-05-30

The features of vegetative propagation of Thuja occidentalis L. ’Wagneri’ using different types of stem cuttings depending on the effect of growth stimulants (aqueous solutions of Іndolylbutyric acid, Сharkor and Вiokor-char, as well as growth powders – Кornevin and Ukorzeniacz AB) were studied. The biological ability of the experimental stem cuttings to form adventitious roots was determined: rooting, degree of development of the root system (number of roots, their length, nature of their location on the cutting) and growth of the above-ground part of the rooted cuttings. Cuttings were carried out in the spring (second and third decades of April) with stem cuttings growing with a “heel” and semi-lignified cuttings. When grafting stem cuttings that grow with a “heel”, high rooting rates were obtained using the Ukorzeniacz AB growth powder and an aqueous solution of IMC, and semi-lignified cuttings were treated with growth powders (Ukorzeniacz AB and Kornevin). In these experimental variants, the formation of adventitious roots of three orders was observed on rooted cuttings, and the indicators of the total root length were maximum. The maximum growth rates of the above-ground part of rooted cuttings were observed with the use of growth powders (for cuttings growing with a “heel” when treated with Ukorzeniacz AB, for semi-lignified cuttings – with rooting powder). The study of the features of the morphogenesis of adventitious roots made it possible to trace the features of its stages and phases, determine their duration and characteristics, and also reveal the dependence of each of them on the type of cuttings and the influence of growth stimulants. The conducted studies have shown that it is possible to increase the rooting and number of adventitious roots and thus accelerate the regeneration process of different types of stem cuttings of T. occidentalis ’Wagneri’ if the studied types of cuttings and growth stimulants are used. This cultivar is best propagated by cuttings that grow with a “heel” and semi- lignified cuttings using growth powder (Ukorzeniacz AB). The proposed techniques will accelerate the rooting of stem cuttings of T. occidentalis ’Wagneri’ and obtain higher quality planting material.

DEVELOPMENT OF BIOTECHNOLOGICAL APPROACHES FOR OBTAINING TOBACCO (NICOTIANA TABACUM L.) R1 AND R2 GENERATIONS RESISTANT TO WATER DEFICIT

L. Bronnikova — 2025-05-30

Recently, there has been a reduction in the area of arable land with sufficient moisture supply, which is accompanied by an increase in soil salinity and is one of the reasons for the decline in crop yields. Water deficit in saline conditions can exacerbate the effects of salt stress.Water deficit is a type of osmotic stress. Losing moisture, the plant significantly limits its vital activity and leads to complete death. The development of approaches to produce plants that are resistant to drought is becoming increasingly important. It is the resistance of plants to unfavourable factors that has always been a problematicand urgent issue in connection with global warming.We have experimentally obtained resistant cellular forms of tobacco and determined the level of L-proline in both progeny and wild-type plants.In the study of seed germination and analysis of young seedlings, the following features were established: during germination under normal in vitro conditions, morphometric parameters of the aerial part and root system of tobacco differ significantly from those of the first and second generation descendants and wild type; young seedlings R1 R2 were characterised by metabolic plasticity, which was manifested in adaptations under radical changes in in vitro culture conditions. In control plants, the level of amino acid prevailed in juvenile plants, and in the descendants of the first and second generations, the organ-specific difference was insignificant.

ANALYSIS OF SEED GENERATIONS OF BIOTECHNOLOGICAL WHEAT PLANTS AN ADDITIONAL COPY OF THE GENE ORGYTIN-δ-AMINOTRANSFERASE OF ALFALFA

Larysa BRONNIKOVA — 2025-05-30

Cultivation of biotechnological winter wheat progeny under water deficit and salinity conditions allowed to analyse the level of free proline and to relate it to grain productivity. Under stressful conditions, the superiority of free proline content in the vegetative organs of genetically modified wheat compared to the original forms was noted.It was shown that the main indicators of the yield structure of the seed generation of wheat with a functional transgenesignificantly exceeded the control variants under normal and stress conditions. The object of the study was T1–T4 variants of winter wheat, genotype UK-209, UK 322/17. The aim of this study was to determine the tolerance to water deficit of seed generations T1–T4 of genetically modified wheat with partially suppressed expression of the proline dehydrogenase (ProDH) gene based on physiological and biochemical parameters and economic characteristics of plants. We used the following research methods: determination of yield structure parameters and biochemical methods for determining L-proline (Pro).The level of Pro- and analysed elements of productivity in the progeny of transgenic plants and their original forms under normal and insufficient water supply was investigated. The winter wheat plants of T1-T4 generations of genotype UK 322/17, UK 209 h were studied for resistance to water and salt stress. The responses to short-term salinity and water deficit associated with the accumulation of free proline, as well as the nature of recovery fromstress were analysed.

GALLANT SOLDIER – A PROMISING RAW MATERIAL WITH ANTIBACTERIAL PROPERTIES

Natalia VOROBETS — 2025-05-30

Galinsoga parviflora Cav. (Asteraceae family) is a segetal-ruderal species, introduced from Peru and spread throughout the territory of Ukraine, the European and other continents. In our country, it is a dangerous invasive species that litters crops and natural biomes. Simultaneously, G. parviflora is an edible plant that is used in traditional medicine in some countries, and there are some results of scientific research that testify to the effectiveness of its use as a medicinal plant material with anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, hypotensive, hemostatic, cytotoxic properties and others. Since the G. parviflora species is morphologically variable, there is a need to study its chemical composition and properties before using it, in particular as a medicinal plant raw material or for other purposes.The phytochemical investigation of aqueous and aqueous ethanolic extracts of G. parviflora herb resulted in the identification of several groups of biologically active compounds. Most of them are polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids – have high antioxidant activity, and therefore can cause antibacterial effects. The aim of the study was to collect G. parviflora plants, prepare extracts from the above-ground part (grass) and determine the content of polyphenolic compounds, flavonoids, carotenoids, as well as the antibacterial activity of the prepared extracts.In extracts of the G. parviflora herb collected in the vicinity of Lviv, the content of polyphenols was determined at the level of 4.38–7.71 mg·g-1 of dry mass (DM) in terms of gallic acid, the content of flavonoids at the level of 3.56–7.27 mg·g−1 of DM in terms of quercetin, and carotenoids – 10.95 ± 0.5 µg · g−1 of DM. Studies of the antibacterial activity of ethanolic and aqueous-ethanolic extracts of the herb G. parviflora against test cultures of Escherichia coli and Bacillus brevis, conducted using the well method, allowed to establish that the extract prepared with 20 % aqueous ethanol most strongly inhibits the growth of the studied cultures. Strong statistically significant relationships were established between the zones of inhibition of E. coli and flavonoids – p < 0.001.

мммNEW MITES RECORDS OF THE SUPERFAMILY TETRANYCHOIDEA (ACARI: TROMBIDIFORMES) IN THE TERRITORY OF THE ZAKARPATTIA REGION NEW MITES RECORDS OF THE SUPERFAMILY TETRANYCHOIDEA (ACARI: TROMBIDIFORMES) IN THE TERRITORY OF THE ZAKARPATTIA REGION NEW MITES RECO

І. Vorobok — 2025-05-30

The research has revealed 10 species of tetranychid mites found in anthropogenic and natural habitats of Zakarpattia.It provides information on the number of species, host plants, locations of findings with geographical coordinates for each species, as well as data on their distribution in the world and in different regions of Ukraine. The information on the list of species of flat mites and their locations in Zakarpattia was extended. Thus, for the first time within the studied region, 5 species of flat mites were found, namely Aegyptobia beglarovi (Livschitz, Mitrofanov, 1967), Aegyptobia exarata (Livschitz, Mitrofanov, 1967), Brevipalpus lewisi (McGregor, 1949), Pentamerismus oregonensis (McGregor, 1949), Pentamerismus taxi (Haller, 1877). Results of our study complement the already known information on the species composition and distribution of spider mites within Zakarpattia, and will serve as a basis for further study of flat mites of the region.

CHANGES IN POPULATION PARAMETERS OF ORIBATIDS (ACARI: ORIBATIDA) OF MEADOW HABITATS ON THE TRANSCARPATHIAN LOWLANDS IN THE EDAPHOTOPE HUMIDITY GRADIENT

H. Hushtan — 2025-05-30

Among all abiotic factors, environmental humidity is of great importance for the formation of the population of oribatid mites. Most of the published works, both in the Transcarpathian Lowland and in Europe in general, concern the study of oribatid mite complexes in different types of zonal ecosystems, especially forest ones. In contrast, the population of oribatids of meadow habitats, which are the main type of intrazonal communities, has been studied at a fragmentary level. However, the question of the dynamics of the parameters of the populationof oribatids of meadow biotopes on the Transcarpathian Lowland in the edaphotopee humidity gradient stillremains unsolved. A study of oribatid complexes of xerophytic, mesophytic, hygrophytic and floodplain meadows has been conducted. It has been established that the edaphotopee humidity has a significant impact on the dynamics of oribatid mite communities in different types of meadows on the Transcarpathian Lowland. A correlation analysis was conducted, which showed a high level of dependence of the density of oribatids on soil moisture. The dependence of some parameters of the synecological structure of oribatid mites on soil moisture in different meadows has been established. Thus, the degree of correlation between the moisture factor and the species richness of oribatids in mesophytic meadows is the highest. This factor has a somewhat lower degree of dependence in floodplain meadows. Soil moisture has the greatest influence on the density of oribatids in hygrophytic meadows. A lowerdegree of correlation between density and humidity was found in mesophytic and xerophytic meadows. An analysisof the diversity indices of oribatid mite communities in meadow biotopes of the Transcarpathian Lowland was conducted, which confirmed the identified trend – a decrease in the level of species richness of oribatids in the gradient of decreasing soil moisture. The following indices were calculated: Margalef, Menhinik, Simpson, Shannon and Berger-Parker. For example, the Simpson index value is very sensitive to the dominant species in the studied biotopes, and the Berger-Parker index value is to the most numerous species. This feature of the last two mentioned indices allowed us to identify another trend – an increase in the proportion of dominant oribatid species is manifested with an increase in the humidity of the edaphotope. The Shannon index, given its sensitivity to rare species, allowed us to identify another pattern – an increase in rare forms of oribatids in the gradient of decreasing edaphotope humidity. The detected trend does not apply to the oribatid mite communities of hygrophytic meadows,which are rich in rare species.

AN OVERVIEW OF THE MAMMAL FAUNA OF THE VOVCHA RIVER BASIN (DNIPRO REGION, UKRAINE)

I. Zagorodniuk — 2025-05-30

Information about the mammal fauna of the middle reaches of the Vovcha River (left tributary of the Samara River, Dnipro Basin) is summarised, with a focus on protected areas and settlements, primarily in Pokrovskyi Raion of the south-east of Dnipro Oblast. The territory is heavily transformed due to agricultural development, but the branched river networkwith distinctly dissected riparian areas creates unique habitat conditions for the wildlife. The paper describes a seriesof observations of different groups of mammals that the authors have been monitoring since 2000. For each of the orders and species, annotations on the status of presence and reliability of the data are provided, as well as important factualdata on records and references to publications related to the study area or adjacent territories. Three status designationsare used for the species lists: 30 species recorded on the basis of actual findings; 13 species known from adjacent territories, their distribution ranges fully cover the study area, although no unequivocal evidence of their presence is available; and 9 phantom species that occur here at the boundaries of their ranges and whose presence in the study area is not proven or which are most likely extinct. The species assemblage corresponds to the forest-steppe one, with no signs of steppe communities, despite the territory belonging to the steppe zone. These features are largely determined by the distribution of communities close to the floodplain, and partly by the synanthropic fauna and inhabitantsof agrocoenoses. An annotated list of species is considered as an example of a description of the local fauna withinthe concept of ‘visible fauna’. The prospects for the development of the annotated fauna list and its composition by such components as steppe, forest, and riparian communities, game and synanthropic fauna, and alien species are discussed.

EFFECT OF GROWTH REGULATORS ON TOMATO SEED GERMINATION AND SEEDLING GROWTH

L. Margitay — 2025-05-30

This study analyzes the effects of plant growth biostimulants on seed germination and seedling growth of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) cultivars De Barao Yellow and Kibits, which are suitable for organic cultivation due to their tolerance to late blight. The effectiveness of Ukrainian growth regulators – Biolan, Stimpo, Alostim, Regoplant, and Potassium Humate – was evaluated at various concentrations to enhance seed germination rate, seedling vigor, and root system development. The studies were conducted in laboratory conditions using the biotest method.It was found that on the fourth day of seed germination of tomato variety De Barao Yellow, treatment with Biolan at a concentration of 10−3 % increased the length of the roots by 29 % compared to the control, and on the eighth day this same concentration stimulated the growth of the root system by 86%. Similarly, the hypocotyl length increased by an average of 44–49 %, which may contribute to the faster appearance of cotyledon leaves above the soil surfaceand faster plant germination.On the 4th day of germination of tomato seeds of the Kibits variety under the influence of different concentrations of the growth regulators Stimpo, Alostim, Regoplant and Potassium Humate, it was found that almost all the studied growth regulators in most concentrations increase the germination energy. While in the control an average of 82 % of seeds germinated, in the variant of treatment with Alostim at a concentration of 10−3 %–94 %. In relation to the control, the germination energy under the action of Alostim at a concentration of 10−3 % increases by 12 %; with Alostim, Ukrainian humates and Regoplant at a concentration of 10−4 %–11 %; Alostim at a concentration of 10−5 %, Ukrainian humates and Regoplant at a concentration of 10⁻³ % – 10 % more than in the control. There is no increase in germination energy under the influence of too high concentrations of growth regulators such as Stimpo, Regoplant and Potassium Humate at a concentration of 0.1 %. Therefore, the selection of optimal concentrations is very important. The length of the roots also increases. The best results were obtained when treating with Alostim at concentrations of 10−3 % and 10−4 %, as well as Regoplant at concentrations of 10−1 % and 10−4 %, which provided a significant increase in the length of the root system, by 72–81 % more compared to the control.The results obtained confirm that the use of growth biostimulants improves the morphometric indicators of tomato seedlings, contributing to a more active development of the root system. This ensures better adaptation of plants to stressful conditions, in particular drought, by increasing the efficiency of water and nutrient absorption. Growth regulators can be an effective means of improving the quality of tomato seedlings in regions with limited waterresources.

PHYLOGEOGRAPHICAL ANALYSIS OF APALOCHRUS FEMORALIS ERICHSON, 1840 (COLEOPTERA: MELYRIDAE)

V. Mirutenko — 2025-05-30

The paper presents the results of a molecular genetic analysis of Apalochrus femoralis Erichson, 1840 (Coleoptera: Melyridae, Malachiinae) populations from different regions of Ukraine (Odesa and Zakarpattia), Hungary, and Finland. The aim of the study was to assess the phylogenetic relationships between geographically distant populations of the species. A fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene was used for the analysis. A phylogenetic tree constructed using the Neighbor-Joining method revealed close genetic relationships among the Ukrainian and Hungarian populations, suggesting a common origin likely in the eastern Black Sea region or the Eastern Balkans. The Finnish population formed a distinct and separate clade, possiblyindicating geographical remoteness and isolation.

REVIEW OF THE COLLECTION MOLLUSK SHELLS (MOLLUSCA: GASTROPODA), SUBCLASS PATELLOGASTROPODA, SUBCLASS NERITIMORPHA, SUBCLASS VETIGASTROPODA, WHICH DEPOSITED IN MUSEUM OF NATURE OF V.N. KARAZIN KHARKIV NATIONAL UNIVERSITY

I. Moskalets — 2025-05-30

The first and the only one systematic catalogue of exhibits of the Zoological Cabinet of the Imperial Kharkiv University was published in 1854 and moved 1397 species (5444 specimens). Each shell had unique number, which was indicated in the catalog. Over time, the collection of shell was replenished from various sources. So, many labeled specimens were delivered the director (1975–1988 years) of the Museum of Nature of Kharkiv University L. Korabelnikov from different seas of the hemisphere. The collection was completed with material from White Sea, Japan Sea and Vietnam by I.P. Moskalets, from Cuba by DBS O.M. Sumarokov and from Australia by Associate Professor of Department of Botany of Kharkiv University CBS I.V. Drulova et al. in different years. Rare shells from the coast of Antarctica by an Associate Professor of Department of Zoology and Ecology of Kharkiv A. Yu. Universky. Many shells of good quality, including rare ones, were received as a gift from collector, a member of the Ukrainian parliament and member of the Supreme Soviet O. Feldman. In current article the annotated checklist of gastropods mollusk shells is provided and consists of 4 families, 14 genera, 47 species, 399 specimens from Subclass Patellogastropoda, 2 families, 14 genera, 38 species, 1086 specimens from Subclass Neritimorpha and 10 families, 45 genera, 146 species, 1189 specimens from Subclass Vetigastropoda, which deposited in Museum of Nature of V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University.

GOLDEN JACKAL (CANIS AUREUS L., 1758) IN THE FAUNA OF THE TRANSCARPATHIAN REGION

Ludvig POTISH — 2025-05-30

The golden jackal (Canis aureus L.) spreads beyond its native areas in Southeastern Europe to the Central and North- Eastern Europe, particularly to the Transcarpathian region of Ukraine. The expansion of golden jackals living areas in the Middle Danube Lowland has been observed since the end of the 20 th century. In the second decade of the 21st century, the golden jackal began to settle in the northern direction along the valleys of the main tributaries of the Tisza River. In this paper we discussed the history and possible causes of golden jackal expansion successin our region. We presented here also the golden jackal skull general morphology and coat fur characteristics basedon materials analysis form 10 different age animals collected at various places of Transcarpathia. The presenceof young animal supports the idea of local reproduction. The cranium morphology and fur characteristics weretypical for the golden jackal. The golden jackal has wide ecological plasticity due to utilizing plants, fruits and animals as feed, scavenger and predator behavior, providing various and plenty fodder components for survival and reproduction. The competition with other predators and scavengers is not significant. The species uses advantages of rural agricultural areas. These allowed golden jackal expand on mostly forest-free places of valleysand on foothills in Transcarpathia.

DISTURBANCES IN THE MUCOUS MEMBRANE OF THE ORAL CAVITY OF RATS AFTER CONSUMPTION OF EXCESS SUGAR AND ALUMINUM CHLORIDE

S. Stryzhak — 2025-05-30

The work studied inflammation markers (elastase and acid phosphatase activity), as well as an indicator of microbial contamination (urease activity) in the mucous membrane of the oral cavity of rats after consuming excess sugar and aluminum chloride. The influence of pathogenic factors on the activity of antioxidant protection and the degree of lipid peroxidation in the mucous membrane of the oral cavity of rats was studied. The results of the study indicate the development of inflammatory processes and the reproduction of opportunistic microbiota in the oral cavity of experimental groups of animals, which were more pronounced with the combined consumption of a large amount of sugar with an excess of aluminum. Suppression of antioxidant protection and, as a result, an outbreak of lipid peroxidation were observed.

ORNITHOLOGICAL COLLECTIONS FROM THE TRANSCARPATHIAN OBLAST IN THE HOLDINGS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, NAS OF UKRAINE

S. Tajkova — 2025-05-30

This article presents the results of a comprehensive scientific study of the ornithological collection from the territory of Transcarpathian Oblast, preserved in the holdings of the National Museum of Natural History, NAS of Ukraine.The study covers 651 specimens representing 125 species from 14 orders, collected between 1906 and 1998, with the majority of specimens gathered between 1946 and 1972. These materials enable a retrospective analysis of changes in the region’s avifauna during the second half of the 20th century. The collection has become a national treasure due to organized scientific expeditions conducted by museum staff, as well as the contributions of other ornithologists, local naturalists, and hunters who actively participated in collecting ornithological material. The species composition includes representatives of various habitats, ranging from typical highland species to synanthropic birds adapted to anthropogenic landscapes. Among the specimens are bird species listed in the Red Data Book of Ukraine, including Falco naumanni (8), Dendrocopos leucotos (7), Regulus ignicapilla (4), Picoides tridactylus (3), Coracias garrulus (2), Strix uralensis (2), Lyrurus tetrix (2), Tetrastes bonasia (2), Tyto alba (2), Aquila chrysaetos (1), Ciconia nigra (1), Columba oenas (1), Milvus migrans (1), Monticola saxatilis (1), Picus viridis (1), Prunella collaris (1), Sternula albifrons (1). Special attention is given to the role of collectors, including renowned ornithologists such as O. O. Hrabar, O. B. Kistiakivskyi, V. M. Zubarovskyi, D. V. Vladyshevskyi, M. Y. Kucherenko, V. M. Loskot, O. M. Peklo, and others, whose efforts helped form a rich museum collection that now represents part of the national heritage of the NMNH, NAS of Ukraine. The analysis of the museum collection data enables researchers to identify the period during which factors such as climate change, habitat degradation, and anthropogenic pressure began to affect the Carpathian region, impacting local bird populations.

MICROCLONAL PROPAGATION OF THE SPECIES FROM THE COLLECTION OF THE BOTANICAL GARDEN: ACER PLATANOIDES L. “CRIMSON KING” (ACERACEAE JUSS.)

Khanifabonu JURAEVA — 2025-05-30

Acer platanoides L. is widely used in ornamental landscaping throughout the steppe zone of Ukraine and in Uzbekistan with a temperate continental climate. Due to its striking dark purple foliage, it creates a striking contrast in gardens, parks and urban green spaces. As a shade tree, it provides aesthetic appeal and excellent canopy cover, where it affects cooling, regulating the microclimate, making it a popular choice for streets, residential yards and public spaces. Its resistance to pollution, compacted soil and urban conditions makes it particularly suitable for urban environments, where it is often planted along roads and in public parks. Microclonal propagation of the ornamental species Acer platanoides L. “Crimson King” was achieved through indirect organogenesis and microcutting.Indirect organogenesis was induced on leaf petioles using DKW medium with 2.4D (0.5 mg/l) + Kin (0.5 mg/l) or 2.4D (0.5 mg/l) + BAP (0.5 mg/l), followed by subculturing onto BAP-supplemented medium (0.01–1.0 mg/l).Microcutting was performed on hormone-free WPM medium with 20 % sucrose, then subcultured onto BAP (0.01–1.0 mg/l) before transferring to a medium containing NAA (2 mg/l) + BAP (0.5 mg/l) + TDZ (0.5 mg/l).

COMMUNITIES OF EPIGEIC SPIDERS (ARACHNIDA, ARANEAE) IN FOREST ECOSYSTEMS OF THE NORTHEASTERN SLOPE OF MT. PIKUI (UKRAINIAN CARPATHIANS)

V. Yanul — 2025-05-30

A study was conducted on the assemblages of epigeic spiders in forest ecosystems on the northeastern slope of Mt. Pikui(Vododilno-Verkhovyna Range). The surveyed habitats are: (1) an old-growth sycamore–beech forest at 890–900 m a.s.l., (2) an old-growth sycamore–beech forest in proximity of secondary subalpine meadow (1090–1100 m a.s.l.), and (3) a beech–rowan sparse woodland at the upper forest limit adjoining secondary subalpine meadows (1126 m a.s.l.).A total of 38 spider species belonging to 10 families were identified. The majority of species belonged to Linyphiidae (26 species; 68.4 %) and Agelenidae (3 species; 7.9 %), while the remaining eight families were represented by one or two species each. The species richness was highest in the beech–rowan sparse woodland (25 species), followed by the upper-elevation old-growth forest (18 species) and the lower-elevation old-growth forest (16 species). The core of the dominant assemblage comprised eight species: Cybaeus angustiarum, Tenuiphantes tenebricola, Coelotes pickardi carpathensis, Callobius claustrarius, Diplocephalus picinus, Inermocoelotes inermis, Palliduphantes milleri, and Microneta viaria. These eight species together accounted for 95.5 % of all individuals. The most pronounced differences in species composition among habitats were driven by subrecedent species, whose presence was specific to each ecosystem. Taxonomic diversity and evenness indices showed a declining trend along the elevational gradient: beech–rowan sparse woodland ‒ upper-elevation old-growth forest ‒ lower-elevation old-growth forest. According to ANOVA followed by Tukey’s HSD post hoc test, the differences in diversity index values among the three forest ecosystems were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) based on Bray–Curtis dissimilarity revealed closer affinities between the assemblages of the sparse woodland and the upper old-growth forest, while the assemblage of the lower-elevation old-growth forest formed a distinctly separate group.

THE ERA OF GREAT GENOMIC DISCOVERIES: A BRIEF OUTLINE OF THE HISTORY OF GENOME DIVERSITY SCIENCE

T. Oleksyk — 2025-05-30

In the dynamic world of modern biology, the rapid development of the new science of genomics – which merges biological methods with computer technologies – has opened up vast possibilities for understanding the mysteries of living organisms, from the simplest bacteria to humans. Despite numerous discoveries in the field of genome structure and function, we are still at the early stages of the emergence and development of this discipline. Global sequencing initiatives such as the Human Genome Project (HGP), HapMap, the 1000 Genomes Project, and others have expanded our understanding of human genetic diversity in the context of population history and the evolution of our species. Genomic methods have revolutionized medicine by enabling the development of personalized treatment strategies tailored to the genetic characteristics of each individual. Modern technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9 and single-cell sequencing are opening new frontiers for genomic research, while also presenting novel ethical, legal, and social challenges previously unknown. Genomics has significantly contributed to the growth of today’s knowledge-based economy, particularly by advancing bioinformatics, biomedicine, and biotechnology. It offers new therapies and diagnostic tools and facilitates the rise of precision medicine. The shift to next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies and advancements in computing have made genomic information more affordable and accessible. The future of genomics promises radical changes in healthcare, agriculture, and biodiversity conservation, offering more accurate diagnostics and personalized treatments. Progress in this field is the result of the dedicated work of a large cohort of scientists worldwide and the international collaboration among them, which has opened – and continues to open – new horizons for improving human life.

IN MEMORY OF OUR RESPECTED DOCTORAL STUDENT AND COLLEAGUE KARINA ZVYAGINTSEVA

M. Shevera — 2025-05-30

The paper is dedicated to the memory of Dr. Karina Zvyagintseva (1985–2025), a young botanist and educator, associate professor of the Department of Botany and Plant Ecology of the V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University. Her life and scientific legacy are presented, highlighting her contributions to the development of urban floristics, plant invasions, and nature conservation through her original research.