Structure of Golden Root Populations on Rybachy and Sredny Peninsulas (Murmansk Region, Russia)

This article explores the state of golden root (Rhodiola rosea L.) coenopopulations (CPs) on the Rybachy and Sredny peninsulas (Murmansk Region, Russia). The authors describe 10 coenopopulations of this domestically and internationally protected rare species, which is found in different locations on the Barents Sea coast. They are characterized by significant differences in the density of individual species (ramets): the maximum values are indicated for the coastal rocky territories in CP 6, with a high proportion of juvenile individuals, and the minimum in CP 8, which is associated with the presence of a strong phytocenosis competitor, Lathyrus aleuticus. The recovery index in most coenopopulations is below one, allowing the authors to classify the species as threatened in the studied area. The authors also assess the vitality index based on studying the morphometric parameters of individual species—it varies significantly depending on the growing conditions and the composition of the accompanying phytocenoses. Analysis of the age structure shows the predominance of young coenopopulations, with two distinct peaks of juvenile and young generative individuals. R. rosea exhibits high ecological plasticity in various biotopes on the Barents Sea coast, and therefore, the coenopopulations of its coastal communities form the basis for this species’ stability in the studied area and need to be protected.