Spassimir Tonkov‡
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Corresponding author: Spassimir Tonkov ( stonkov@abv.bg ) © 2021 Spassimir Tonkov.
This is an open access book distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY 4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
Citation:
Tonkov S (2021) The Postglacial Vegetation History in Southwestern Bulgaria. Advanced Books. https://doi.org/10.3897/ab.e68615
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Preface
This book presents the results from the palynological and paleoecological studies conducted with my participation in Southwestern Bulgaria during the period 1985-2020. The study area has always played a key role in the investigation of the Late Quaternary vegetation history in Bulgaria since the middle of the past century. With the development of the research methods (pollen analysis, determination of plant macrofossils, radiocarbon dating, sediment analysis, computer software, etc.) in the last decades it turned out to be a challenge for me to evaluate critically again and synthesize the paleoecological information. In my opinion, such approach allows to reveal in more details the general trends of the postglacial vegetation development for the last 18000-15000 years, and to take also into account the role of humans in transforming the natural environment after the establishment of agriculture and the practice of stockbreeding in this part of the country along the Struma river.
The content is organized in several chapters starting with introductory notes on the scientific importance and the main purpose of research in the study area, a brief assessment of previous investigations, and a short review of the research techniques applied. The subsequent chapters present the original paleoecological data and the vegetation reconstruction for each montane area in uniform way, starting with the high mountains Rila and Pirin, the Konyavska and the lower west border Osogovo, Maleshevska, Vlahina and Belasitsa mountains. Then follows a summary of the human occupation and the millennial anthropogenic impact on the vegetation cover and the environment since the Neolithic epoch. The final chapter presents to the audience the main conclusions and specifics of the postglacial vegetation history in Southwestern Bulgaria.
It is my pleasure to dedicate this book to my teacher in the fascinating world of palynology Prof. Elissaveta Bozilova DSc, and also to the members of my family for their support and encouragement during all these years of academic research and teaching in the Department of Botany at Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski.
I extend my gratitude to the Director of the Pensoft Publishers Prof. Ljubomir Penev who kindly provided all facilities including financial support. I am also obliged to Teodor Georgiev who was responsible for the preprint and the graphical design.
I will be grateful to all colleagues who are interested in this research topic and share their critical remarks and comments.
Sofia, May 2021
Prof. Spassimir Tonkov DSc, PhD
1. Introduction
The development of the natural ecosystems is a reflection of global climate changes since the termination of the last glaciation. For paleobotanists and paleoecologists the history of vegetation during the Quaternary, when cold and warm intervals of different duration and amplitude alternated, the changes in the environment are result of the complex interaction of various factors, the most important of which is climate. The concept that vegetation is in equilibrium with climate for a certain period of the Earth‘s history has been confirmed in different aspects with the application of modern research methods. The dynamic equilibrium has been affected by longer or shorter climatic oscillations in response to changes in orbital factors, as well as the hydrosphere-atmosphere interaction, the formation and disintegration of the continental ice sheets and mountain glaciers.
The use of indicator plants, modern analogues of paleovegetation communities and dynamic computer models, allows to reconstruct the paleoclimate and paleoecological conditions for certain periods of time, as well as to predict the future trends in global changes facing the human society. In this process of learning the history of the Earth from the recent and distant past, it is necessary to take into account the increasing role of the anthropopression, which over time acquires significant proportions in the exploitation of the environmental resources.
The integrated paleoecological research approach provides data on the history, distribution, ecology and relationships between individual plant species and their response to climate and anthropogenic changes. In the study of the past vegetation the main role is assigned to the paleobotanical methods of research, among which pollen analysis and the determination of plant macrofossils are most frequently used. Pollen grains and spores are the most abundant microfossils providing direct information on the past flora and vegetation, and plant macrofossils of local presence as they can often be identified at species level. The sequence of the identified changes is confirmed by the application of local or regional chronologies, and in the last decades by the study of ice cores from Greenland, Antarctica and other parts of the world.
As a result of the last glaciation, significant changes have occurred in the flora and vegetation - appearance or disappearance of certain plant taxa, changes in the composition and structure of the plant communities as well as in the habitats of a number of species. For Southeast Europe, and the Balkan peninsula in particular, the nature of these dynamic changes is rather diverse, taking into account the complex impact of abiotic and biotic factors.
There is a significant amount of paleobotanical and paleoecological evidence collected for certain regions of Bulgaria regarding the postglacial development of the environment and vegetation in response to climate changes, and, in recent millennia to human activiy. The territory of Southwestern Bulgaria is one of these regions that serve as a linkage between the northern parts of the Balkan peninsula with pronounced continental climate and the southern ones, where the mediterranean climatic influence is clearly manifested. This territory comprises a mosaic of high and low mountains, valleys and rivers, an area that was inhabited in the Early Neolithic about 8000 years ago. The highest mountains Rila and Pirin were glaciated during the Quaternary and the neighboring areas have been affected by the periglacial climate.
Traditionally, in this part of the country, the most numerous paleobotanical and paleoecological research on the Late Quaternary history of vegetation and flora is conducted and each subsequent step represents a new direction in this type of investigation.
In Southwestern Bulgaria some of the most suitable sites for paleoecological studies on the postglacial vegetation history are located such as lakes and peat bogs in the Rila and Pirin mountains, and peat bogs and mires in the lower western border mountains. These wetlands are a product of the natural environment and their complex investigation results in acquiring of important information on the historical identification and evolution of the components of the modern ecosystems and their biodiversity. The sediments that accumulated in the mountain lakes after the retreat of the glaciers provide very good opportunities for paleobotanical, paleoecological and paleogeographical reconstructions.
Lake and peat sediments develop in a certain sequence and constitute a peculiar archive of biotic and abiotic changes in time and space. The climate signal from the sediments is mainly a result of complex interactions in the environment, manifested as variations in the autochthonous organic components, mineral components, and the micro- and macrofossils of plant and animal origin.
The possibilities offered by the complex study of lakes and peat bogs in Southwestern Bulgaria remain still not completely utilized. There are issues under discussion about the specifics, chronology and individual stages of the plant paleosuccession during postglacial time, as well as regional manifestation of the climate fluctuations. There are problems related to the localization of glacial refugia of the main tree species, their rates and routes of migration in response to the rapid amelioration of the climate at the beginning of the Holocene. There was practically no information on the sedimentation processes in the glacial lakes as a reflection of the paleoecological situation. From archaeobotanical view of particular interest is the elucidation of the reasons for the early settlement of praehistorical tribes in these lands and the millennial exploitation of the plant and animal resources by humans.
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Paleobotanical and paleoecological studies on the Late Quaternary history of vegetation in Bulgaria have started in the first half of the past century and to this day they are most numerous in Southwestern Bulgaria. The palynological pioneer studies of Late Holocene peat bogs in the Vitosha Mountain are well known as they reflect the alternation of forest phases without establishing their chronology (Stojanov, Georgiev, 1934; Petrov, 1956).
Later on, palynological studies of peat bogs and former lakes were initiated in the Rila and Northern Pirin mountains. These investigations marked a qualitative leap with the application of radiocarbon dating. As a first step the palynological research in the Rila Mountain was focused on peat bogs located in different parts of the massif, most of which were formed during the Late Holocene (Subboreal and Subatlantic). The age of the sediment cores and the replacement of forest plant communities were determined using a limited number of radiocarbon dates (Bozilova, 1972, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1981). Lateglacial sediments from two sites but without detailed chrono- and biostratigraphical division were studied in the northwestern and southwestern parts of the Rila Mountain (Bozilova, Smit, 1979; Bozilova, 1981, 1986). It was proposed that a number of deciduous and coniferous tree species had survived the harsh glacial conditions at lower altitudes in local refugia with suitable microclimatic conditions with subsequent vertical migration in the Holocene (Bozilova, Tonkov, 1983, 1985, 1985a; Bozilova, 1986; Tonkov, Bozilova, 1988). The fluctuations of the upper timber-line were also discussed in the light of the climatic and anthropogenic changes (Bozilova, 1975a).
The results of the palynological and paleoecological studies in the Pirin Mountain showed many common features with the Rila Mountain in terms of vegetation dynamics and climate change in postglacial time, as well as some site specific features, constrained to the more southern location. Peat bogs located in the northern part of the mountain were studied and it was established that most of them had originated since mid-Atlantic untill the beginning of the Subatlantic (Bozilova, 1975b, 1977a; Stefanova, 1991; Stefanova, Bozilova, 1992; Stefanova, Oeggl, 1993; Stefanova, 1997). These studies revealed the basic characteristics of the plant paleosuccession for the last 7000 years. A further progress was achieved with the complex study of lateglacial and Holocene sediments from glacial lakes in the Northern Pirin Mountain by application of pollen analysis, plant macrofossil determination and radiocarbon dating (Stefanova, Bozilova, 1995; Blyakharchuk et al., 2001; Stefanova, Ammann, 2003; Atanassova, Stefanova, 2003, 2005; Stefanova et al., 2003, 2006, 2006a). These studies revealed the main stages of environmental, vegetation and climate changes after the retreat of the mountain glaciers.
Palynological data supported by radiocarbon dates were obtained from the investigation of peatlands in the Konyavska and Maleshevska mountains (Tonkov, 1985, 1988; Tonkov, Bozilova, 1992, 1992a).
The first summary of the vegetation and environmental changes in Bulgaria in postglacial time, including also several reference sites from the montane area of Southwestern Bulgaria, was published as a separate chapter (Bozilova et al., 1996) within the activities of IGCP Project 158B “Palaeohydrological Changes in the Temperate Zone in the Last 15000 Years: Lake and Mire Environments”.
* * *
The paleoecological results of 28 cores from 26 sites (10 lakes, 13 peat bogs, 3 mires, marshes and swamps) located in the following mountainous areas in Southwestern Bulgaria are presented and discussed (Figs
A. Map of Bulgaria on the Balkan peninsula with the study area (SA). B. Map of Southwestern Bulgaria with the mountains studied.
- Rila Mountain: Northwestern Rila Mountain - Lake Sedmo Rilsko (site 1), Lake Ribno (site 2), Lake Trilistnika (site 3) and Lake Panichishte (two cores) (site 4); Central Rila Mountain - Lake Manastirsko-2 (site 5), Peat bog Vodniza (site 6), Lake Ostrezko-2 (site 7), Lake Ostrezko-3 (site 8), Lake Suho Ezero-RM (site 9); Southwestern Rila Mountain - Lake Suho Ezero (core 2) (site 10), Peat bog Vapsko-1 (site 11), Peat bog Vapsko-2 (site 12)
- Pirin Mountain: Northern Pirin Mountain - Lake Ribno Banderishko (site 13), Lake Muratovo (two cores) (site 14), Peat bog Mozgovitsa (site 15); Southern Pirin Mountain - Peat bog Mutorog (site 16), Peat bog Popovi Livadi (site 17)
- Konyavska Mountain: Tschokljovo Marsh (site 18)
- Osogovo Mountain: Peat bog Osogovo-1 (site 19), Peat bog Osogovo-2 (site 20), Peat bog Begbunar (site 21)
- Maleshevska Mountain: Peat bog (site 22)
- Vlahina Mountain: Peat bog Kadiytsa (site 23), Swamp Obel (site 24)
- Belasitsa Mountain: Mire Gjola (site 25), Peat bog Belasitsa-1 (site 26)
The sediment cores were recovered with hand-operated equipments (Dachnowsky, Livingstone, Hiller) and motor Streif sampler, with different length of the chambers (0.2 m, 0.5 m and 1 m), and stored in plastic tubes in refrigirator.
Pollen analysis was performed on each core at intervals of 5-10 cm and less often every 2-2.5 cm dependent on the composition of the sediments, the time for their deposition, and the purpose of the respective study. The standard acetolysis procedure of the samples was applied (Faegri, Iversen, 1989) and siliceous particles were also removed (Birks, Birks, 1980). The counting of the pollen grains was performed with microscopes Amplival and Leitz at magnification 400-800x. The determination of fossil pollen grains and spores was done to the lowest possible taxonomical level with the help of the reference collection at the Laboratory of Palynology at Sofia University, the pollen keys and microphotographs in Beug (1961, 2004), Moore, Webb (1978), Moore et al., (1991), Faegri, Iversen (1989), Punt et al., eds. (1974-2003) and other literature sources. The pollen sum of c. 500 grains used for percentage calculations includes tree and herb pollen, excluding spores of mosses, pteridophytes, pollen of Cyperaceae and aquatics. Percentage pollen diagrams including the most common/important pollen taxa present with values >0.5% and depth/age models are constructed with the software program Tilia ver. 2.0.41 (Grimm, 1991-2015). The subdivision of the pollen diagrams into local pollen assemblage zones (LPAZ) which reflect successive changes in vegetation development was facilitated by the application of CONISS (Grimm, 1987). The definition of a local pollen zone includes a letter code, a brief description of the fossil composition, transitions to neighbouring zones, and if possible, its chronostratigraphic boundaries (Faegri, Iversen, 1989). For several cores pollen accumulation rates (PAR; pollen grains cm-2 yr-1) for the main tree/shrub and herb pollen taxa are also calculated by addition of Lycopodium tablets per sample of constant volume (1 or 2 cm3) before preparation (Stockmarr, 1971). The PAR value of a given taxon is directly dependent on its abundance in the surroundings of the study site and independent of values of other taxa (Davis et al., 1973; Giesecke, Fontana, 2008; Seppa et al., 2009, etc.).
Fossil stomata from needles of conifers were identified and counted together with pollen grains in the sediments of Lake Ribno, Lake Manastirsko-2, Peat bog Vodniza and Peat bog Vapsko-1. Their presence is indicated in absolute numbers or by symbols on the relevant pollen diagrams. For conifers the stomata found on pollen slides are derived from needles and thus provide a valuable proxy for local presence (Ammann et al., 2014). The taxonomical identification was done following MacDonald (2001), Sweeney (2004), Magyari et al. (2012), Finsinger, Tinner (2020) and reference slides, particularly in attempt to distinguish between Pinus mugo/sylvestris and Pinus peuce.
In sediments of Quaternary age the plant macroremains preserved (fruits, seeds, leaves, wood, fragments of vegetative and reproductive organs, etc.) provide important information for the reconstruction of the local vegetation in a given area, as they are often identified at species level and supplement the information from pollen analysis (Wasylikova, 1986; Birks, Birks, 1980, 2000). Plant macrofossils were determined from Lake Panichishte Core 2, Lake Ostrezko-2, Lake Ostrezko-3, Lake Suho Ezero Core 2, Peat bog Mozgovitsa and Peat bog Popovi Livadi. Additionally, for the purposes of radiocarbon dating, plant macroremains from Lake Sedmo Rilsko, Lake Ribno Banderishko and Peat bog Begbunar were identified. The samples for macrofossil analysis were separated at every 10, 15, 20 or 25 cm depending on the amount of material available. The plant macrofossils were analyzed with a stereomicroscope at a magnification of 10-80x and the wood sections were examined with a light microscope. The identification was performed with the use of atlases, identification keys, literature sources and reference material (Beijerinck, 1947; Katz et al., 1977; Schoch et al., 1988; Schweingruber, 1990; Tobolski, 2000, etc.). Cuticular analysis was also applied in attempt to distinguish the needles originating from Pinus mugo and Pinus sylvestris (Struzkova, 2002). The results are presented graphically in the form of macrofossil diagrams constructed with the software program Tilia ver. 2.0.41 (Grimm, 1991-2015). The absolute number of the plant macrofossils from a given taxon in each sample is indicated. The presence of fragments of wood and remnants of vegetative parts (stems, leaves, etc.) is shown by appropriate symbol. The macrofossil diagrams are divided into local macrofossil assemlage zones (LMAZ) defined by a letter code, a brief description of the fossil composition, analogous to the LPAZ.
Radiocarbon dating is an essential element of any modern paleobotanical and paleoecological study, as it provides the basis for accurate chronological control over the tracking of changes in flora and vegetation, climate, hydrological regime, etc., archived in the sediments of lakes, peat bogs, mires, paleosoils, paleoethnobotanical materials (Walker, 2005).
For the purposes of this large-scale investgation radiocarbon dating of 129 samples was performed by conventional and AMS methods in 12 laboratories in Europe in the frame of the international cooperation as follows:
63 samples in the Radiocarbon Laboratory (Ua) at the University of Uppsala, Sweden
22 samples in the Radiocarbon Laboratory (Lu) at the University of Lund, Sweden
10 samples in the Radiocarbon Laboratory (Hela) at the University of Helsinki, Finland
9 samples in the Isotoptech Zrt. (DeA) in Debrečen, Hungary
8 samples in the 14C and 3H Laboratory (Hv) in Niedersachsisches Landesamt fur Bodenforschung, Hannover, Germany
4 samples in the Radiocarbon Laboratory (B) at the University of Bern, Switzerland
4 samples in the Radiocarbon Laboratory at the Royal Institute of Cultural Heritage, Brussels, Belgium
3 samples in the Robert van der Graaff Laboratory (UtC) at the University of Utrecht, The Netherlands
3 samples in the 14CHRONO Centre (UBA) at Queen’s University of Belfast, Northern Ireland
1 sample in the Radiocarbon Laboratoriy (KL) of the Institut fur Rheine und Angewandte Kerphysik der Universitat Kiel, Germany
1 sample in the Radiocarbon Laboratoriy (P) of Max-Planck-Institut fur Biogeochemie in Jena, Germany
1 sample in the Radiocarbon Laboratory at the INRNE in Sofia, Bulgaria
The results are presented in tables and on the pollen/plant macrofossil diagrams in 14С yrs. ВР (0 yrs. BP = year 1950). All radiocarbon dates have been calibrated to calendar years (±2σ range) with the computer program OxCal 4.3 (Bronk Ramsey, 2009) using the relevant atmospheric data (Reimer et al., 2013). The mid-point calibration value is also indicated. In this case the calibrated dates (cal. yrs. BP or cal. BC/AD) can also be considered as calendar years. It is recommended to use calibrated years in the scientific literature (Walker, 2005) which is applied in the text. For sites with sufficient radiocarbon dates by interpolation each pollen sample is assigned to the corresponding radiocarbon age. It is also possible to determine and correlate chronologically the boundaries of the local pollen assemblage zones.
The nomenclature for vascular plants follows Flora of Republic of Bulgaria (Jordanov et al., 1963-2012) and Guide to Higher Plants in Bulgaria (Kozhuharov ed., 1992).
* * *
I am grateful to all my colleagues and friends from the country and abroad who were involved in the course of several decades in the expeditions to collect materials, their processing, analyses and discussions in the frame of research projects and scientific programs. I extend my sincere gratitude to my co-authors Prof. E. Bozilova, Prof. G. Possnert, Assoc. Prof. E. Marinova, Assoc. Prof. J. Atanassova, Dr. H. Panovska, Assoc. Prof. M. Lazarova, Prof. A. Velchev, Prof. D. Pavlova, Prof. J. Snowball, Prof. H. Jüngner, Dr. A. Feurdean, Dr. G. Skog, Assoc. Prof. E. Chakalova, Prof. D. Koleva, Dr. I. Vajsov, Assoc. Prof. G. Popov, Assoc. Prof. I. Velichkov, Assoc. Prof. G. Hinkov, Prof. Tz. Zlatanov, with whom high quality papers were published.
Special thanks go to Prof. G. Possnert, Prof. H. Jüngner, Prof. M. Geyh and other colleagues who generously provided a considerable number of radiocarbon dates. I am indebted to Prof. H.-J. Beug who gave me the first lessons in the field how to collect cores with hand-coring equipment during his numerous visits to Bulgaria and for the advices and fruitful discussions. The late Prof. H. E. Wright and Prof. B. Ammann ensured funding and guided the expedition to collect materials from glacial lakes in the Rila and Pirin mountains. In the field I always felt the invaluable help from my colleagues and friends Prof. H.-J. Beug, Prof. D. Dimitrov, Assoc. Prof. G. Angelov, Prof. A. Velchev, Assoc. Prof. E. Marinova, Assoc. Prof. D. Uzunov, Prof. L. Penev, Dr. G. Wolff, friends from the Rila Nature Reserve Rilomanastirska Gora, foresters, and many others.
From my first steps in modern paleoecological science since the early 80-ties of the past century I was encouraged and supported by Prof. B. Berglund who was the leader of IGCP Project 158B and introduced me to the international paleocommunity. I am grateful to the late Prof. E. Grimm who kindly provided for free the software package Tilia ver. 2.0.41. I thank Assoc. Prof. E. Marinova for her constructive comments and suggestions to improve the chapter on the anthropogenic impact. Assoc. Prof. D. Kozuharov, Prof. D. Pavlova, Assoc. Prof. A. Tosheva and Dr. P. Ivanov provided photos of several sites studied. The technical assistant N. Mihailova has prepared most of the samples for pollen analysis.
2. Rila Mountain
Physico-geographical characteristics and modern vegetation
Rila Mountain which is the highest massif on the Balkans (peak Musala, 2925 m) is located between 41°52’30”-42°21’40”N and 23°01’22”-24°01’E in Southwestern Bulgaria. It has a roughly triangular shape (70 x 60 x 40 km) with an area of 2396 km2. The mountain is bordered on the south and southeast by the Pirin (2914 m) and the Western Rhodopes (2191 m) mountains, and on the west and north by the valleys of several rivers. Inner deep river valleys following the major fault lines divide the massif into four parts: Eastern (2925 m), Northwestern (2731 m), Central (2716 m) and Southwestern (2630 m) (Stoichev, Petrov, 1980) (Fig.
Rila massif is built by crystalline rocks of Mesozoic and Pre-Mesozoic age. The granitoids form the central and eastern mountain parts, while the Northwestern Rila and the western fringes of Southwestern Rila are built up mainly of metamorphic rocks, gneisses, schists and amphibolites. Some authors consider that Rila Mountain was glaciated twice in the Pleistocene during the Riss and the Würm glacial stages (Ivanov, 1954; Glovnya, 1958, 1962, 1969, etc.) following the Alpine geochronological scheme of the Quaternary glaciations, and others (Velchev, 1995, 1999, 2014; Tonkov et al., 2008) claim to have found evidence also from an earlier glaciation (Mindel). A monograph which presents an extensive review on the Pleistocene glaciations and the formation of the present-day alpine and subalpine landscapes in Bulgaria was recently published (Velchev, 2020). All authors stick to the opinion that the existing visible glacial landforms (cirques, numerous lakes, different types of moraines and trough valleys) were shaped during the last glaciation.
In the last years, with the application of cosmogenic nuclide dating (10Be) on terminal moraine samples, the extent of the last glaciation in the Rila Mountain was mapped. Most probably, the maximum extent has occurred in two phases, the first one around the beginning (24-23 ky BP), and the second one around the end of the Last Glacial Maximum (18-16 ky BP), separated by a retreat phase (Kuhlemann et al., 2008, 2013).
The typical montane climate above 1000 m is characterized by the decrease of the annual air temperature by 0.5° C with each 100-m increase in altitude. At 1800-1900 m where the present upper timber-line runs, the mean January temperature is -6°C and the mean August temperature is 11.4° C. As a result of the predominant directions of the moisture transport, the northwestern and northern slopes at altitudes 1000-1700 m receive 1000-1050 mm/year, while the high peaks above 2500 m about 900 mm/year, most of it snow (Velev, 2002).
In Rila Mountain from 600 to 1800 m brown mountain-forest soils (Cambisols) are widespread, and above them up to 2200 m are found dark-colored mountain-forest soils (Humic Cambisols). The latter acquire a mosaic character at the transition between the subalpine and alpine belts due to their combination with mountain-meadow soils (Umbrisols) (Ninov, 1997).
According to the last geobotanical zoning, Rila Mountain is included as a separate region within the Illyrian (Balkan) Province of the European Deciduous Forest Area (Bondev, 2002). The vegetation is closest to that in the central European mountains, for which the dominance of silicate terrains and its high altitude are important. The present vegetation of the Rila Mountain has six vegetation altitudinal belts (Velchev, Tonkov, 1986; Bondev, 1991; Velchev, 2002).
The xerothermic oak belt (up to 600 (700 m)) is clearly expressed on the western, northeastern and southwestern slopes of the mountain. The dominant species are Quercus cerris and Quercus frainetto, together with Carpinus orientalis, Quercus pubescens, Fraxinus ornus, Juniperus oxycedrus, Paliurus spina-christi, Coronilla emerus and Colutea arborescens. Herb communities dominated by Festuca valesiaca, Poa bulbosa and Dichantium ischaemum are found on treeless terrains.
The xeromesophilous oak and hornbeam belt (700-1000 m) occurs on the western and eastern slopes of the mountain, and is characterized by a tree vegetation composed of Quercus dalechampii and Carpinus betulus with an admixture of Ulmus glabra, Acer platanoides, Acer pseudoplatanus. Fragments of this vegetation type occur up to 1700 m. Stands of Pinus nigra and Ostrya carpinifolia are also found.
The beech belt (1000-1600 m) is fragmented and occupies areas in the northern and western parts of the mountain. The dominant tree is Fagus sylvatica, which also forms mixed woodstands with Pinus nigra, Abies alba and Picea abies at high altitudes. Secondary communities of Betula pendula, Populus tremula, Agrostis tenuis, Festuca nigrescens, etc. are also found.
The coniferous belt (1600-(2000) 2200 m) is the most compact and well developed vegetation belt, and is composed mainly of forests of Pinus sylvestris and Picea abies. The Balkan endemic Pinus peuce forms a sub-belt and shapes the timber-line in the western and southern parts of the mountain. Within this belt communities of Abies alba, Betula pendula, Populus tremula, Juniperus sibirica and Vaccinium myrtillus also occur.
The subalpine belt (2200 (2000)-2500 m) on northern slopes, particularly in the central and eastern parts, is dominated by thick impenetrable formation of Pinus mugo (dwarf-pine). On areas, free of dwarf-pine, are found Juniperus sibirica, Vaccinium myrtillus, and herb communities dominated by Festuca valida, Festuca paniculata, Festuca picta, Sesleria comosa, and Nardus stricta. Alnus viridis is mainly restricted to the mountain brooks along the steep, rocky slopes. The arctic-alpine character of the vegetation is indicated by the presence of dwarf-willows such as Salix lapponum, Salix reticulata and Salix waldsteiniana.
The alpine belt (2500-2925 m) is dominated by the herb communities of Carex curvula, Festuca airoides, Festuca riloensis, Dryas octopetala, Salix herbaceae, etc. The vegetation of the subalpine and alpine belts is rich in endemics. Most of them are classified as glacial relics that survived the harsh conditions of the glaciations. The present-day vegetation in almost all belts is highly influenced by the anthropogenic activities. In many places the coniferous and deciduous forests have been damaged or destroyed to a large extent and the timber-line has been artificially lowered.
Northwestern Rila Mountain – Study sites
Lake Sedmo Rilsko (site 1)
The northwestern part of the Rila Mountain occupies 24% of its total area and is rich in cirques and glacial lakes. It provides excellent possibilities for exploring important issues related to the Pleistocene glaciations, the character of the glacial bodies, the relictual glacier formations and the postglacial processes. The cirque of the Seven Rila Lakes is the largest one in the mountain, being elongated and extended in a northerly direction. The group of the lakes is located in a tier on the slope between 2535 and 2095 m. The picture of the Pleistocene glaciations is rather complicated and currently two types of glaciation - mountain valley and ice-cap from the last three glacial epochs can be accepted (Fig.
Geomorphological map of the cirque of the Seven Rila Lakes in the Northwestern Rila Mountain (after Tonkov et al., 2008).
The lowermost Lake Sedmo Rilsko is situated at 2095 m (42°12’39.64”N, 23°19’36.73”E) in the lower part of the subalpine vegetation belt above the present timber-line. The lake collects water from all upper lakes. The shores are flat and only the southeastern slope is steep and rocky. The lake is about 330 m long and 180 m wide, with a maximum water depth of 11 m (Ivanov, 1964). It is surrounded by groups of Pinus mugo and Juniperus sibirica within patches of herb vegetation. Not far away, to the north, are found single trees of Pinus peuce, Pinus sylvestris and Picea abies (Bozilova, Tonkov, 2000, 2011) (Figs
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
A sediment core 5.2 m long and 5 cm in diameter was obtained from a platform at the central part of the lake at water depth of 8.25 m with square-rod piston sampler. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-415 brown gyttja, 415-435cm grey clay, 435-485 cm olive gyttja, 485-520 grey silt. The radiocarbon age of 8 samples (3 of plant macrofossils and 5 of bulk sediment) was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Material dated |
| UtC-6057 | 225 | 4006±48 | 4790-4290 (4540) |
Pinus sp. shoot |
| UtC-6095 | 355 | 6480±80 | 7570-7250 (7410) |
Betula fruit and Pinus sp. needle |
| UtC-6058 | 410 | 10170±60 | 12110-11500 (11805) |
plant tissue |
| LuS-8991 | 435-437 | 10840±75 | 12910-12630 (12770) |
gyttja |
| DeA-24386 | 442.5 | 11306±43 | 13260-13070 (13165) |
gyttja |
| DeA-24388 | 452.5 | 12140±46 | 14160-13820 (13990) |
gyttja |
| LuS-9336 | 458-460 | 12640±70 | 15270-14690 (14980) |
gyttja |
| LuS-9337 | 470-472 | 12920±75 | 15720-15190 (15455) |
gyttja |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 2.5-5 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ LSR-1 (520-457 cm, Artemisia-Chenopodiaceae-Poaceae-Pinus diploxylon) (17000?-14750 cal. yrs. BP)
The zone is characterized by low values of arboreal pollen c. 15-20%, attributed mainly to Pinus diploxylon-type, Pinus peuce, and partly Betula, Juniperus and Ephedra (distachya-type and fragilis-type). The herb pollen taxa dominate, among them Artemisia with up to 47%, Chenopodiaceae 20%, Poaceae 15-20%, and others such as Achillea-type, Galium-type, Rumex, Brassicaceae, Apiaceae, etc.
LPAZ LSR-2 (457-437 cm, Pinus diploxylon-Artemisia-Poaceae-Betula) (14750-12800 cal. yrs. BP)
The total arboreal pollen curve steeply reaches a maximum of 60-70% and than declines to 35%. The most abundant tree taxa are Pinus diploxylon-type up to 50%, Pinus peuce 10%, Betula 10%, Quercus robur-type 5%, Ulmus, Tilia, Carpinus betulus, Corylus. Among the herb pollen taxa should be mentioned Artemisia 20%, Poaceae 15%, Chenopodiaceae 5%, Achillea-type, Rumex, Galium-type, Thalictrum, Apiaceae, etc.
LPAZ LSR-3 (437-407 cm, Artemisia-Poaceae-Chenopodiaceae) (12800-11600 cal. yrs. BP)
Pollen of Artemisia reaches 35%, Chenopodiaceae 15%, Poaceae 20%, Achillea-type, Rumex and Galium-type each with 5%. Tree pollen declines to a minimum of 15% and subsequently rises to 50%, attributed to Betula 10-20%, Pinus diploxylon-type 10%, Quercus cerris-type, Quercus robur-type and Corylus each less than 5%, Pinus peuce and Juniperus with 2-3%.
LPAZ LSR-4 (407-358 cm, Betula-Quercetum mixtum-Pinus) (11600-8000 cal. yrs. BP)
In this zone the arboreal pollen curve increases to 70-85%, contributed by Betula 27%, Quercus robur-type 5-35%, Quercus cerris-type 3-15%, Corylus 5-7%, Alnus 2-3%, partly Ulmus and Tilia, each with 5%. The participation of Pinus diploxylon-type reaches 15% and of Pinus peuce 5%. Pollen grains of Carpinus betulus, Acer, Fraxinus and Fagus are also recorded. Both pollen types of Ephedra disappear. There is a pronounced decline for the participation of Artemisia 5%, Chenopodiaceae 2%, Poaceae 10%, Achillea-type, Rumex, Galium-type, Ranunculus-type, and other herb pollen taxa. Spores of Polypodiaceae are present with 5%.
LPAZ LSR-5 (358-230 cm, Pinus-Abies-Quercetum mixtum-Corylus) (8000-4750 cal. yrs. BP)
In this zone the dominance of deciduous tree pollen represented by Betula 10-2%, Quercus robur-type 25-5%, Corylus 20-5%, Ulmus and Tilia is replaced by Pinus diploxylon-type up to 25-35% and Pinus peuce with 28%. Another change is the quick increase of Abies pollen up to 20-30%. A continuous pollen curve of Fagus appears with 1-2%. Single pollen grains of Picea, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya, Hedera and Vitis are also recorded. Significant changes in the participation of the herb pollen taxa are not established.
LPAZ LSR-6 (230-163 cm, Pinus-Abies-Fagus) (4750-3200 cal. yrs. BP)
The pollen curve of Fagus displays a rapid increase to 12%, accompanied by the appearance of Picea pollen with 2-3%. The pollen curve of Pinus diploxylon-type retains its values of 30-35%, Pinus peuce with 15-20%, and Abies with 20%. Deciduous tree taxa such as Quercus cerris-type, Quercus robur-type, Betula, Corylus, Carpinus, etc. are present with low pollen frequencies. In this zone begins the pollen curve of Plantago lanceolata.
LPAZ LSR-7 (163-0 cm, Picea-Pinus-Fagus) (3200 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
The most characteristic features are the maximum of 15% attained by Picea, accompanied by a rise of the pollen curves for Pinus peuce and Pinus diploxylon-type up to 25% and 35%, respectively. A slight increase for Juniperus, Betula, Corylus and Quercus robur-type pollen is observed. Pollen grains of Juglans are regularly found. Pollen of Cerealia-type, Triticum-type and Secale appears in this zone. Higher values are recorded for Rumex, Plantago lanceolata, Scleranthus, Poaceae and Artemisia pollen.
Lake Ribno (site 2)
The lake is situated at 2184 m (42°12’27.10”N; 23°19’26.31”E) in the subalpine belt and an inlet brings water from the upper Lake Trilistnika, while the outlet runs into Lake Sedmo Rilsko (Fig.
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
A sediment core 6.4 m long and 5 cm in diameter was obtained from a platform at the deepest part of the lake with square-rod piston sampler (Fig.
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Material dated |
| Ua-40623 | 50-51 | 2106±30 | 1995-2150 (2070) |
gyttja |
| Ua-40624 | 99-100 | 2569±30 | 2510-2756 (2630) |
gyttja |
| Ua-40625 | 186-187 | 4192±31 | 4621-4840 (4730) |
gyttja |
| Ua-40626 | 269-270 | 6359±37 | 6575-7741 (7160) |
gyttja |
| Ua-40627 | 354-355 | 8540±42 | 9476-9550 (9510) |
gyttja |
| Ua-40628 | 395-396 | 9662±47 | 10780-11210 (11000) |
gyttja |
| Ua-39221 | 427 | 10139±52 | 11400-12050 (11725) |
clay/gyttja |
| Ua-39222 | 437 | 10291±56 | 11800-12400 (12100) |
clay/gyttja |
| Ua-39223 | 452 | 10465±53 | 12100-12700 (12400) |
clay/gyttja |
| Ua-39224 | 472 | 11240±59 | 12990-13260 (13125) |
clay/gyttja |
| Ua-39225 | 491 | 12346±67 | 14000-14750 (14375) |
clay/gyttja |
| Ua-40629 | 498-500 | 12692±67 | 14650-15250 (14950) |
clay/gyttja |
| Ua-39227 | 532 | 13483±155 | 15450-16650 (16050) |
silty clay |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 5 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
Pollen accumulation rates (PAR; pollen grains cm-2 yr-1) for the main tree/shrub and herb taxa from Lake Ribno plotted against age (cal. yrs. BP).
LPAZ LR-1 (600-512 cm, Artemisia-Chenopodiaceae-Pinus diploxylon-Poaceae) (18000?-15100 cal. yrs. BP)
The quantity of tree pollen averages 20% with a short peak of 43% (level 575 cm). The main component is Pinus diploxylon-type with 18-22%, accompanied by some Pinus peuce, Betula, Juniperus, partly Corylus, Alnus and Ephedra (distachya-type and fragilis-type). The herb pollen taxa are represented by Artemisia 40-60%, Chenopodiaceae up to 20%, Poaceae up to 10%, Achillea-type, Cichoriaceae, Centaurea jacea-type, Galium-type, Rumex, Apiaceae, Brassicaceae, Dianthus-type, etc. The total PAR of arboreal taxa is c. 500 grains cm-2 yr-1 contributed by Pinus diploxylon-type 200-400, Juniperus and Betula 50 each. The highest values are established for Artemisia up to 1000, Chenopodiaceae up to 400 and Poaceae 220.
LPAZ LR-2 (512-463 cm, Pinus-Artemisia-Betula-Poaceae) (15100–12900 cal. yrs. BP)
The presence of tree pollen reaches 60-68%, attributed mainly to Pinus diploxylon-type 30-40%, Pinus peuce 10-12%, Betula 6%, Juniperus and Corylus each with 2-3%. Low pollen frequencies are recorded for Quercus (cerris-type and robur-type), Alnus, Carpinus betulus, Humulus/Cannabis-type. Pollen grains of Abies, Fagus, Picea and Tilia are also determined. Pollen of Artemisia does not exceed 20%, Chenopodiaceae 7%, while Poaceae reaches 10-15%. New herb pollen taxa such as Caltha-type, Geum-type and Gentiana are recorded. The total PAR of arboreal taxa increases to c. 1000 grains cm-2 yr-1 represented by Pinus diploxylon-type up to 600, Pinus peuce 250, Betula 100, Juniperus 60. The PAR of herb pollen taxa decreases, contributed mainly by Artemisia 250, Poaceae 200 and Chenopodiaceae 50-100.
LPAZ LR-3 (463-427 cm, Artemisia-Chenopodiaceae-Poaceae) (12900-11600 cal. yrs. BP)
The tree pollen curve declines to 25-30%, mainly due to Pinus diploxylon-type 15%, Pinus peuce 3%, partly Juniperus 2% and Betula less than 5% each. Pollen of Abies, Picea, Fagus, Tilia and Ulmus becomes sporadical. The presence of Ephedra pollen (distachya-type and fragilis-type) remains constant. The pollen frequencies for Artemisia 32-40% and Chenopodiaceae 15% increase again, while those for Poaceae just slightly decrease. The PAR of trees retains nearly the same values with the exception of Pinus peuce with 120 grains cm-2 yr-1 and a slight rise of Quercus robur-type up to 70. The PAR of herb pollen taxa shows maximal values for Artemisia and Chenopodiaceae 1500 and up to 600, respectively, and a tendency of increase for Poaceae, Apiaceae and Brassicaceae.
LPAZ LR-4 (427-297 cm, Betula-Quercetum mixtum-Corylus-Pinus) (11600-7900 cal. yrs. BP)
The presence of tree pollen reaches 80%, due to Betula 10%, Quercus robur-type 20%, Quercus cerris-type 15%, Corylus 10-20%, Tilia 10%, Ulmus 5%, Pinus diploxylon-type 15-20%, Alnus and Juniperus each less than 5%. Low proportions of Acer, Fraxinus excelsior-type, Carpinus betulus, Ephedra (distachya-type and fragilis-type) pollen are also found. The continuous pollen curve of Abies appears reaching 5%. Pollen grains of Fagus and Picea are regularly determined. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 15-5%, Artemisia up to 15%, Chenopodiaceae 5%, Achillea-type, Rumex, Cichoriaceae, Ranunculus-type, Brassicaceae, Galium-type, each below 3-5%, etc. The total PAR of tree taxa increases gradually to 3000 grains cm-2 yr-1 contributed mainly by Betula 300-500, Quercus robur-type 600-800, Quercus cerris up to 400 and Corylus 700-900. Among the herb pollen taxa only Poaceae retains values of 250-300, while Artemisia and Chenopodiaceae sharply decline. The increase for Apiaceae and Brassicaceae up to 100 each deserves mentioning.
LPAZ LR-5 (297-223 cm, Pinus-Abies) (7900-5800 cal. yrs. BP)
The pollen curve of Abies reaches 25-30%, Pinus diploxylon-type 30-35% and Pinus peuce 12%. Pollen of deciduous trees like Betula, Quercus robur-type, Quercus cerris-type, Corylus, Tilia and Ulmus declines, while Carpinus betulus is present with 2-4%. Pollen of Fagus and Picea is continuously found. Significant changes in the participation of the herb pollen taxa are not recorded, except for the appearance of single grains of Plantago lanceolata, Urtica, Cerealia-type. This zone marks the rise of PAR for the coniferous trees such as Pinus diploxylon-type up to 1500 grains cm-2 yr-1, Abies 1000, Pinus peuce 500, while the values for the deciduous trees gradually decline.
LPAZ LR-6 (223-133 cm, Pinus-Abies-Fagus-Picea) (5800-3400 cal. yrs. BP)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type reaches 40-45%, Abies is present with 15-30%, Pinus peuce with 10%, Fagus up to 10%. A continuous pollen curve of Picea below 5% appears. A slight increase for Betula and Carpinus betulus is recorded. Pollen grains of Juglans are quite common. The main herb pollen taxa are Poaceae 5%, Artemisia, Cichoriacae, Rumex, Ranunculus-type, Apiaceae, Brassicaceae, Plantago major/media-type, etc. Pollen grains of Plantago lanceolata, Cerealia-type, Urtica are also recorded. The tendency for increase of PAR of trees is visible, attributed to Pinus diploxylon-type up to 3000 grains cm-2 yr-1, Pinus peuce 750, Abies 1500-1750 and Fagus 500. Among the herb pollen taxa attention deserves Poaceae with 250-300.
LPAZ LR-7 (133-0 cm, Picea-Fagus-Pinus-Abies) (3400 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
The pollen curve of Picea rises to 15% together with Fagus 20%, while Abies declines to 8%. High pollen values are recorded for Pinus diploxylon-type 50–55% and Pinus peuce 10-15%. The last finds of Ephedra fragilis-type pollen are recorded. A slight increase for pollen of Corylus, Quercus and Alnus is established. Important changes in the frequency and diversity of the herb pollen taxa are not registered. In this zone maximal PAR of the following trees are recorded - Pinus diploxylon-type 3500 grains cm-2 yr-1, Pinus peuce 1250, Fagus 1000 and Picea 750.
Lake Trilistnika (site 3)
The uppermost lake investigated is located at 2216 m (42°12’01”N, 23°18’56”E) in the subalpine belt, surrounded by sparse groups of Juniperus sibirica and Pinus mugo within herb vegetation (Fig.
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
A sediment core 5.9 m long and 5 cm in diameter was recovered with square-rod piston sampler at water depth of 6.3 m. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-430 сm gyttja, 430-500 сm silty clay and 500-590 сm grey silt. The radiocarbon age of 12 bulk sediment samples was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Material dated |
| Ua-20688 | 50-52 | 1645±40 | 1690-1410 (1550) |
gyttja |
| Ua-20689 | 105-107 | 2605±40 | 2790-2700 (2745) |
gyttja |
| Ua-21598 | 150-152 | 3200±40 | 3550-3340 (3445) |
gyttja |
| Ua-20690 | 202-204 | 3925±40 | 4450-4230 (4340) |
gyttja |
| Ua-20691 | 240-242 | 4560±45 | 5330-5040 (5235) |
gyttja |
| Ua-20692 | 308-310 | 6835±50 | 7760-7580 (7670) |
gyttja |
| Ua-20693 | 368-370 | 8040±55 | 9150-8650 (8900) |
gyttja |
| Ua-20694 | 396-398 | 8825±60 | 10200-9600 (9900) |
gyttja |
| Ua-21599 | 457-459 | 11140±100 | 13450-12850 (13150) |
silty clay |
| Ua-20696 | 468-470 | 11365±75 | 13500-13000 (13250) |
silty clay |
| Ua-21600 | 481-483 | 12110±95 | 15350-13650 (14500) |
silty clay |
| Ua-21601 | 489-491 | 12815±130 | 15950-14350 (15150) |
silty clay |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 5-10 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ LT-1 (590-532 сm, Artemisia-Chenopodiaceae-Poaceae) (18000?-15000? cal. yrs. BP)
Low values of 15-20% are recorded for tree pollen, attributed mainly by Pinus diploxylon-type, Pinus peuce and Ephedra (distachya-type and fragilis-type). Pollen of Juniperus, Betula, Alnus, Corylus and Carpinus betulus is also determined. Among the herb pollen taxa dominate Artemisia 40-60%, Chenopodiaceae 20% and Poaceae up to 15%. The presence of Achillea-type, Solidago-type, Apiaceae, Rumex pollen is also recorded.
LPAZ LT-2 (532-463 сm, Pinus-Artemisia-Poaceae-Betula) (15000?-13190 cal. yrs. ВР)
The most characteristic feature is the high proportion of Pinus diploxylon-type 50-55%, accompanied by a slight increase of Pinus peuce, the appearance of continuous pollen curves for Betula and Alnus, and a decrease of Artemisia and Chenopodiaceae to 20% and 5%, respectively. Pollen grains of Abies, Picea, Corylus, Quercus, Ulmus and Carpinus are also recorded. New herb pollen taxa such as Thalictrum, Ranunculus-type, Cyperaceae and spores of Selaginella selaginoides and Polypodiaceae appear in the fossil record.
LPAZ LT-3 (463-432 сm, Artemisia-Chenopodiaceae-Poaceae) (13190-11750 cal. yrs. ВР)
The arboreal pollen curve sharply declines to 20% and Pinus diploxylon-type is present with 15-10%. Pollen of Abies, Picea and Ulmus is lacking. The participation of Artemisia and Chenopodiaceae increases again, reaching 45-55% and 15-20%, respectively, accompanied by pollen of Achillea-type, Dianthus-type, Cichoriaceae, Galium-type, Rumex, Apiaceae, etc.
LPAZ LT-4 (432-322 сm, Betula-Quercetum mixtum-Corylus-Pinus) (11750-7950 cal. yrs. ВР)
The tree pollen curve reaches 90%, with a maximum of Betula 10% and an increase for Pinus diploxylon-type 33% and Pinus peuce 20-25%. The same tendency is observed for Quercus cerris-type 17%, Corylus 15-20%, Tilia 12%, Ulmus and Alnus. The first local peak of Abies with 15% is recorded. Pollen grains of Fagus, Picea and Vitis are also found. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 12%, Artemisia up to 5%, Chenopodiaceae 3%, Rumex 5%, Cichoriaceae, Cirsium-type, Achillea-type, each with 1-2%, etc. Spores of Polypodiaceae reach a maxium of 10%.
LPAZ LT-5 (322-255 сm, Pinus-Abies) (7950-5900 cal. yrs. ВР)
The pollen curve of Abies rises to 30-38% and Pinus peuce to 15%. A considerable decrease is registered for Quercus cerris-type, Corylus, Tilia, Ulmus and Betula pollen, while Carpinus betulus is present with 2-4%. Pollen grains of Fagus are regularly found. The total quantity of herb pollen taxa varies between 8% and 16%.
LPAZ LT-6 (255-143 сm, Pinus-Abies-Fagus-Picea) (5900-3350 cal. yrs. ВР)
The pollen curves of Fagus and Picea rise to 10% and 5%, respecively. High values of 35% are recorded for Abies pollen with a subsequent reduction to 18%. The participation of Pinus diploxylon-type is up to 45-50% and for Pinus peuce up to 15%. Pollen of Juglans is recorded for the first time. The main herb pollen taxa are Poaceae 4-6%, Artemisia 2%, Cirsium-type, Ranunculus-type, Dianthus-type, etc. The pollen curve of Plantago lanceolata appears together with pollen of Cerealia-type.
LPAZ LT-7 (143-0 сm, Picea-Pinus-Fagus-Abies) (3350 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
The tree pollen curve reaches 95%, contributed mainly by Pinus diploxylon-type 50-55%, Abies 15%, while Pinus peuce decreases below 5%. In this zone pollen of Fagus with 20% and Picea 12% reach maximal values. Significant changes in the frequency and diversity of the herb pollen taxa are not registered, except for the appearance of pollen of Secale and Triticum-type.
Lake Panichishte (site 4)
The lake is located at 1370 m (42°15’45.67”N, 23°17’38.97”E) in the lower range of the coniferous belt (Fig.
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
Two sediment cores P-2 and P-3, both 5 cm in diameter, were obtained from the central part of the lake with square-rod piston sampler. The Core P-2 with a length of 1.5 m was collected at water depth of 1.7 m and selected for pollen and plant macrofossil analyses. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-50 cm peat with sand and plant remains, 50-150 cm peaty gyttja. The Core P-3 with a length of 1.15 m was collected at water depth of 2 m and was analysed for pollen content. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-50 cm coarse peat with plant remains, 50-115 cm peaty gyttja. The radiocarbon age of 9 bulk sediment samples was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Cal. BC/AD (mid-point) | Material dated |
| Core P-2 | |||||
| Hel-4375 | 30-35 | 870±100 | 980-650 (815) |
970-1300AD (1135AD) |
peat with plant remains |
| Hel-4376 | 75-80 | 1340±90 | 1420-1010 (1215) |
530-940AD (735AD) |
peaty gyttja |
| Hel-4377 | 145-150 | 1950±90 | 2140-1630 (1885) |
190BC-320AD (65AD) |
peaty gyttja |
| Core P-3 | |||||
| Ua-61843 | 10 | 160±29 | 290-40 (165) |
1660-1910AD (1785)AD |
peat with plant remains |
| Ua-61844 | 35 | 388±29 | 510-320 (415) |
1440-1630AD (1535)AD |
peat with plant remains |
| Ua-61845 | 50 | 673±30 | 680-550 (615) |
1270-1400AD (1335)AD |
peaty gyttja |
| Ua-61846 | 70 | 1349±31 | 1320-1180 (1250) |
630-770AD (700)AD |
peaty gyttja |
| Ua-61847 | 90 | 1643±30 | 1620-1410 (1515) |
330-540AD (435)AD |
peaty gyttja |
| Ua-61848 | 110 | 1908±31 | 1930-1740 (1835) |
20-210 (115)AD |
peaty gyttja |
Pollen analysis
The cores were sampled at 5-10 cm interval and two pollen diagrams are constructed (Figs
LPAZ LP-1: Core P-2 (150-73 cm); Core P-3 (115-68 cm) (Pinus diploxylon-Fagus-Abies) (1900-1170 cal. yrs. BP)
Tree pollen dominates, attributed mainly to Pinus diploxylon-type 15-25%, Fagus 20-30%, Abies 10-20%. Comparatively low pollen frequencies below 5% are registered for Pinus peuce, Picea, Juniperus, Corylus, Quercus cerris-type, Quercus robur-type, Carpinus betulus, Ulmus, etc. A sharp maximum for Betula pollen with 20% is recorded at the transition to the next zone, accompanied by a decline of Fagus and a rise of Pinus diploxylon-type. The herbs are represented by Poaceae with 5-7% and a variety of taxa, including hydrophytes and hygrophytes such as Typha/Sparganium-type, Typha latifolia, Potamogeton, Myriophyllum, and Cyperaceae with 15%.
LPAZ LP-2: Core P-2 (73-22 cm); Core P-3 (68-47 cm) (Pinus diploxylon-Abies-Fagus) (1170-570/550 cal. yrs. BP)
The domiant pollen type is Pinus diploxylon with 35-40%. Pollen of Abies, Fagus and Picea is present with 5-15%, 10%, 5%, respectively. Pollen of Juglans is also found. Pollen of anthropogenic indicators such as Plantago lanceolata, Plantago major/media-type, Rumex, Polygonum aviculare-type and of cereals (Secale, Triticum-type, Cerealia-type) is determined. Significant changes in the pollen frequencies of the local taxa are not established.
LPAZ LP-3: Core P-2 (22-0 cm); Core P-3 (47-0 cm) (Picea-Pinus diploxylon-Abies) (570/550 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
The most characteristic feature is the rise of Picea pollen curve up to 15%, accompanied by Pinus diploxylon-type with 40-70%, Abies 18%, Fagus 10%, Pinus peuce 5%, Corylus up to 10%. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 10%, Achillea-type, Cichoriaceae, Plantago lanceolata, Rumex, etc.
Plant macrofossil analysis
The samples for plant macrofossil analysis were taken from Core P-2 at 10 cm interval with a volume of 50 cm3 and analyzed with a binocular at magnification 10-80x. The plant remains found are presented in absolute numbers on a macrofossil diagram (Fig.
LMAZ LPM-1 (140-85 cm) (1800-1290 cal. yrs. BP)
Plant remains from coniferous and deciduous trees are determined in almost all samples. Needles/fragments of needles and cone scales of Abies alba and Pinus sylvestris prevail. Fruits of Betula and cupules of Fagus sylvatica are also found. In the upper part of the zone appear needles of Pinus peuce. The macrofossil record is rich in seeds of telmatic, submerged and floating plants such as Veronica sp., Potentilla sp., Glyceria fluitans, Carex vesicaria, Carex riparia, Juncus atrata-type, Schonoeplectus lacustris, Potamogeton nodosus, Potamogeton natans, Sparganium erectum, Myriophyllum spicatum. Charcoal fragments are also established.
LMAZ LPM-2 (85-30 cm) (1290-750 cal. yrs. BP)
Abundant needles of Abies alba and fruits of Betula are recorded in several samples. The quantity of Carex vesicaria friuts increases. A characteristic feature is the nearly complete absence of seeds and fruits from hydrophytes such as Potamogeton natans, Potamogeton nodosus and Myriophyllum spicatum. Plant macroremains from trees are lacking in the upper part of the zone. Charcoal particles are also found.
LMAZ LPM-3 (30-0 cm) (750 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
Male cones of Picea abies, few needles of Abies alba and fruits of Betula and Fagus sylvatica are determined in the uppermost sample. The quantity of seeds and fruits from Sparganium erectum, Juncus sp. and Potamogeton natans increases.
Vegetation history in the Northwestern Rila Mountain
Lateglacial
The age of the sediment cores of the three glacial lakes studied is assumed to be older than 15000-16000 cal. yrs. BP (Fig.
The length of the lateglacial sections studied is 113 cm for Lake Sedmo Rilsko (Fig.
Based on the increase of arboreal pollen and the decline for Artemisia and Chenopodiaceae, it can be concluded, that the tendency to warmer climate has started after 16000 cal. yrs. BP. This trend appears in good conformity with the isotopic signal from ice-cores, the Netherlands and the Alps at the end of Greenland Stadial 2, preceding the Bölling/Alleröd interstadial complex (de Klerk, 2004) (Fig.
Comparison of the lateglacial palynostratigraphy and chronology of the lakes studied in the Northwestern Rila Mountain with the lateglacial δ18O record and event stratigraphy from the GRIP Greenland ice-core (modified after Tonkov et al., 2011).
The pollen assemblages point unequivocally to an initial stage of afforestation in the approaches to the lakes with pines (Pinus mugo, Pinus sylvestris and Pinus peuce) and Betula which has begun c. 15000 cal. yrs. BP. The pine-birch stands restricted the distribution of the mountain herb vegetation and at lower altitudes deciduous trees (Quercus, Carpinus betulus, Corylus) spread from their local refugia as the climate became warmer. The radiocarbon dates of 12640±70 14C yrs. BP and 12692±67 14C yrs. BP (Tables
The time interval identified with pollen zones LSR-2, LR-2 and LT-2 can be successfully correlated with the Bölling/Alleröd interstadial complex from Western Europe. Oxygen isotope studies from Switzerland (Lotter et al., 1992; Ammann et al., 1994) and The Netherlands (Hoek, 1997; Hoek, Bohncke, 2001) indicated a major temperature rise around 12600/12450 14C yrs. BP with a simultaneous expansion of (shrub) forests according to the paleobotanical data.
It is reasonable to compare the local vegetation development and radiocarbon chronology with the palaeoclimatic signal from Greenland ice-cores (INTIMATE event stratigraphy) (Fig.
The lateglacial pollen records reveal a reversal towards stadial conditions in the Rila Mountains and this stratigraphic interval, identified with pollen zones LSR-3, LR-3 and LT-3, can be correlated with the last cold phase at the termination of the Lateglacial, the Younger Dryas stadial (Alley, 2000). The drop in temperature and precipitation has favored the re-advance of the mountain herb vegetation and trees have moved downslope. Several radiocarbon dates were obtained for this stadial phase in the Northwestern Rila Mountain, namely from Lake Ribno (Table
Holocene
The Holocene vegetation succession in the study area has followed several stages determined by the migration and expansion rates of the main deciduous and coniferous trees, and influenced by the climatical, ecological and anthropogenic factors. The time span of these stages and their approximate age ranges are based on the local radiocarbon chronology established (Fig.
The onset of the Holocene was characterized by a quick decline of the “mountain steppe” herb vegetation, the initiation of the re-forestation processes and a change of the type of sediments deposited in the lakes from clay to gyttja (Lotter, Hofmann, 2003). The first Holocene vegetation stage lasted between 11700/11600 and 8000/7900 cal. yrs. ВР (pollen zones LSR-4, LR-4 and LT-4) and within it two phases could be distinguished. The duration of the first phase is estimated at 1500-1600 years when pioneer forests of Betula have occupied the mountain slopes at mid-higher altitudes on barren soil replacing in many areas the remnants of the lateglacial herb vegetation. A pronounced decline of the “mountain-steppe” elements from Artemisia, Chenopodiaceae, Poaceae, Achillea, Aster and other herb taxa is observed but they still occupied a great share of the area around the lakes. In the close vicinity to the cirque the birch forests were sparser, accompanied by stands of pines (Pinus mugo, Pinus sylvestris and Pinus peuce), Alnus (most probably Alnus viridis) and Juniperus shrubland. The presence of Pinus sp. was confirmed by the find of fossil stomata in the sediments of Lake Ribno c. 10000 cal. yrs. BP (Fig.
The second stage in the vegetation development, which broadly coincided with the Holocene climatic optimum, was characterized by important changes in the forest composition and its altitudinal zonation after 8000/7900 cal. yrs. BP. In the course of c. 2000 years the ecological conditions have favored the vertical migration of the conifers, (pollen zones LSR-5, LR-5 and LT-5; Fig.
The dynamic changes in the vegetation cover manifested after 5800 cal. yrs. BP (pollen zones LSR-6, LR-6 and LT-6; Fig.
The first indications of human interference are visible in the pollen diagrams c. 3700 cal. yrs. BP when pollen grains of Cerealia-type, together with the continuous presence of anthropogenic indicators such as Plantago lanceolata and Rumex, appeared accompanied by a decline for Abies. The archaeological information points to a rise in the number of the Late Bronze Age settlements (3400-3200 cal. yrs. BP) in the foothills of the mountains surrounding the Struma valley, and an intensification of the human activity, including deforestation (Marinova et al., 2012).
After 3400 cal. yrs. ВР Picea abies started to invade areas in the coniferous belt, reaching its first expansion maximum c. 2700 cal. yrs. BP (pollen zones LSR-7, LR-7 and LT-7). This change in the vegetation cover was mainly climatically driven as a shift to lower average temperatures and an increase in precipitation that has occurred in the Northern Hemisphere. Concurrently, in the fossil record of Lake Sedmo Rilsko, the rise of Picea abies and the tendency for a decline of Abies coincided with the appearance of pollen of anthropogenic indicators.
The vegetation history in the study area since 2700 cal. yrs. BP years was characterized by an intensification of the human interference in all vegetation belts. At many places the upper tree-line was artificially lowered in order to extend pasture land. Even at high altitudes the find of pollen of cereals from Triticum-type and Cerealia-type, and of Juglans, points to well-developed agriculture and cultivation of walnut in the foothills of the mountain, whereas pollen of Rumex, Plantago lanceolata, Scleranthus is indicative of livestock-grazing in the mountain meadows.
The final enlargement in the distribution of Picea abies and Fagus was reached in medieval times after 1600 cal. yrs. BP. Subsequently, both trees partly declined, whilst larger areas were occupied by pines, mostly Pinus mugo in the subalpine belt and Pinus sylvestris.
A more detailed picture of the vegetation history and human impact at lower altitudes (1300-1400 m) in the Northwestern Rila Mountain for the last 2000 years is obtained from the sediment archive of Lake Panichishte. The results complement the paleoenvironmental reconstruction for the study area in historical time.
The pollen and plant macrofossils records revealed that for the period 1900-1200 cal. yrs. BP or 50-750 AD (Figs
After 1200 cal. yrs. BP or 750 AD some changes are recorded in the composition of the forests around the lake. Part of them were probably destroyed c. 1100 AD and, subsequently, open areas were colonized by Betula and various herbs. In the entire Core P-2 (Fig.
In the course of several centuries (1400-1700 AD) the share of Abies alba and Fagus sylvatica in the forests considerably declined, caused mainly by an increase of the human impact and the invasion of Picea abies. Spruce has benefited from the optimal ecological conditions for growth in the forest zone between 1600 and 1300 m, concurrent with the duration of the Little Ice Age (1550-1850 AD) (Grove, 1988), and obviously being climatically influenced. Such a late peak of Picea pollen curve was not detected in the pollen diagrams from the subalpine glacial lakes. The herb communities composed of various Poaceae, Artemisia, Achillea, Cichoriaceae, Ranunculus, Brassicaceae species, as well as Rumex, Plantago aviculare and Juniperus, occupied vast areas thus pointing to intense seasonal livestock-grazing. The abundance of anthropogenic pollen confirms the cultivation of cereals (Triticum-type, Secale) at lower elevations.
The last three centuries in the vegetation development witnessed the establishment of the present-day appearance of the forest cover around Lake Panichishte, dominated by Pinus sylvestris and Picea abies, with an admixture of Abies alba. The communities of beech were reduced in their distribution which could be explained by competition with the conifers, the insufficient air humidity and the soil structure. The pollen records reflect also a decline of the deciduous oak forests, quite probably as a result of their heavy exploitation for various purposes by the local population.
Central Rila Mountain – Study sites
Lake Manastirsko-2 (site 5)
The lake is situated at 2326 m (42°07’46.78”N; 23°24’42.16”E) in the subalpine belt. The lake is 75 m long, 50 m wide, with a surface area of 0.2 ha and a maximum water depth of 2 m. The shores of the lake are flat and marshy, surrounded by sparse groups of Pinus mugo and Juniperus sibirica among herb vegetation. The inlet brings water from a small upper lake and the outlet drains into Vodniza river (Ivanov, 1964) (Figs
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
A sediment core 4.15 m long was obtained from the peaty southeastern shore of the lake with Dachnowsky hand-coring equipment. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-120 cm peat with sand, 120-385 cm peaty gyttja, 385-415 cm light-green gyttja. The radiocarbon age of 12 bulk sediment samples was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Material dated |
| Ua-47271 | 26-28 | 1245±75 | 980-1300 (1140) |
peat |
| Ua-49249 | 36-38 | 1517±31 | 1330-1530 (1430) |
peat |
| Ua-47272 | 80-82 | 1915±38 | 1730-1950 (1840) |
peat |
| Ua-48421 | 130-132 | 2703±41 | 2750-2880 (2815) |
peaty gyttja |
| Ua-47273 | 180-182 | 3380±42 | 3480-3730 (3605) |
peaty gyttj0a |
| Ua-48422 | 240-242 | 5858±47 | 6540-6790 (6665) |
peaty gyttja |
| Ua-47274 | 280-282 | 7680±93 | 8310-8660 (8485) |
peaty gyttja |
| Ua-47275 | 320-322 | 8972±106 | 9650-10400 (10025) |
peaty gyttja |
| Ua-47423 | 360-362 | 9732±75 | 11060-11270 (11165) |
peaty gyttja |
| Ua-49250 | 388-390 | 10380±85 | 11950-12550 (12250) |
gyttja |
| Ua-47276 | 405-407 | 11209±168 | 12700-13400 (13050) |
gyttja |
| Ua-49251 | 413-415 | 11796±174 | 13250-14050 (13650) |
gyttja |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was conducted at 5 cm (2.5 cm for the lateglacial section) interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
Pollen accumulation rates (PAR; pollen grains cm-2 yr-1) for the main tree/shrub and herb taxa from Lake Manastirsko-2 plotted against age (cal. yrs. BP).
LPAZ LM-1 (415-378 cm, Artemisia-Chenopodiaceae-Pinus-Poaceae) (13700-11600 cal. yrs. BP).
Tree pollen varies between 20% and 45% with two short peaks of 55% at levels 415 cm and 405 cm. The main constituent is Pinus diploxylon-type 10-30%, accompanied by Pinus peuce up to 10%, Betula 5-10%, Juniperus, Quercus, Tilia, Ulmus, Corylus and Alnus, each up to 5%, and some Ephedra (distachya-type and fragilis-type). A short-term rise of Abies pollen of 5% is also recorded. Herb pollen is represented by Artemisia 15-40%, Chenopodiaceae up to 18%, Poaceae up to 15%, Achillea-type up to 5%, Cichoriaceae 5-8%, Galium-type, Rumex, Cirsium-type, Apiaceae, Brassicaceae, Dianthus-type, etc. The PAR of trees (shrubs) and herbs is rather low, c. 500 grains cm-2 yr-1 for each of both groups. The arboreal pollen influxes are contributed mainly by Pinus diploxylon-type with 150-250 grains.
LPAZ LM-2 (378-267 cm, Betula-Quercetum mixtum-Corylus-Pinus) (11600-7900 cal. yrs. BP)
Tree pollen increases from 40% to 75%, due to Pinus diploxylon-type 20%, Pinus peuce 5%, Corylus up to 10%, Betula 5-8%, Quercus robur-type up to 10%, Tilia 5-7%, Quercus cerris-type 5%, Alnus, Ulmus and Tilia. Subsequently, Corylus starts to dominate with 15-25%, together with Betula up to 20%, Quercus robur-type up to 15% and Quercus cerris-type 5%. The continuous pollen curve of Abies appears reaching 7%. Pollen grains of Fagus and Picea are regularly determined. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 8-15%, Artemisia 5-8%, Cichoriaceae 5-10%, Chenopodiaceae 5%, Rumex 5-7%, Ranunculus-type, Brassicaceae, Apiaceae and Galium-type each with 3-5%. The arboreal PAR increases gradually from c. 500 to nearly 2000 grains cm-2 yr-1, contributed significantly by Pinus diploxylon-type 500-1000, Betula up to 300, Corylus 400-450 and Quercus robur-type up to 200.
LPAZ LM-3 (267-220 cm, Pinus-Abies) (7900-5600 cal. yrs. BP)
The pollen curves of Abies, Pinus diploxylon-type and Pinus peuce rise reaching 25%, 50-60% and 15%, respectively. Pollen of deciduous trees from Betula, Quercus robur-type, Quercus cerris-type, Corylus, Tilia and Ulmus quickly declines. The continuous presence of Fagus and Picea, though with low frequencies, is recorded. The PAR for Pinus diploxylon-type and particularly for Pinus peuce and Abies doubled compared to the previous zone. Changes in the presence of the herb pollen taxa are not established, except for a decline of Poaceae below 5%.
LPAZ LM-4 (220-167 cm, Abies-Pinus-Fagus) (5600-3400 cal. yrs. BP)
Tree pollen dominates with 80-90%, attributed to Pinus diploxylon-type 40-60%, maximal frequencies for Abies 25-30%, Pinus peuce 10-20%, Fagus and Picea each with 3-5%. Continuous pollen curves for Betula, Quercus robur-type and Alnus are recorded. The PAR for the main coniferous species starts sharply to increase, reaching maximal values: Pinus diploxylon-type 3000 grains cm-2 yr-1, Pinus peuce 1000 and Abies 1250. The most frequent herb pollen taxa are Poaceae 5%, Artemisia, Cichoriaceae, Rumex, Cirsium-type, Ranunculus-type, Brassicaceae, etc.
LPAZ LM-5 (167-0 cm, Pinus-Picea-Abies-Fagus) (3400 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
Pollen of Picea continues to increase and reaches 10-15%, while Abies declines to 10-15%. High values are established for Pinus diploxylon-type 60-65% and Pinus peuce 10-15%. A slight increase for Betula, Corylus, Alnus and Fagus is recorded. Pollen of Juglans is occasionally found. In the uppermost samples the total PAR of trees and shrubs substantially decreases, particularly noticeable for Pinus diploxylon-type, Picea abies, Abies and Fagus. A higher diversity of herb pollen taxa is present, in particular the appearance of anthropogenic indicators like Secale, Hordeum-type and Plantago lanceolata, accompanied by an increase for Poaceae and Cichoriaceae pollen. A secondary rise for the pollen curve of Cichoriaceae with 5-8% is established, together with Poaceae, Achillea-type, Artemisia, Scleranthus, Brassicaceae, etc.
Peat bog Vodniza (site 6)
This peat bog, a former lake, is located near the timber-line at 2113 m (42°07’46.78”N; 23°24’42.16”E) at a distance of c. 200 m in altitude below Lake Manastirsko-2 (Fig.
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
A sediment core 5 m long was obtained from the central part of the peat bog with Dachnowsky hand-coring equipment. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-215 cm sedge peat with plant fragments, 215-500 cm peaty gyttja. The radiocarbon age of 8 bulk sediment samples was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Material dated |
| Ua-54136 | 71-73 | 877±26 | 720-910 (815) |
peat |
| Ua-54137 | 151-153 | 1561±27 | 1390-1530 (1460) |
peat |
| Ua-55775 | 214-216 | 2387±31 | 2340-2680 (2510) |
peaty gyttja |
| Ua-54138 | 253-255 | 3168±28 | 3350-3460 (3405) |
peaty gyttja |
| Ua-54139 | 333-335 | 5196±30 | 5900-6000 (5950) |
peaty gyttja |
| Ua-55011 | 384-386 | 6756±35 | 7570-7670 (7620) |
peaty gyttja |
| Ua-47275 | 441-443 | 7572±34 | 8340-8430 (8385) |
peaty gyttja |
| Ua-54141 | 487-489 | 8501±35 | 9460-9540 (9500) |
peaty gyttja |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was conducted at 10 cm interval. A percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
Pollen accumulation rates (PAR; pollen grains cm-2 yr-1) for the main tree/shrub and herb taxa from Peat bog Vodniza plotted against age (cal. yrs. BP).
LPAZ V-4 (500-425 cm, Betula-Quercetum mixtum-Corylus-Pinus) (9800-8150 cal. yrs. BP)
Arboreal pollen dominates with 80-95%, due to Betula up to 25%, Pinus diploxylon-type 20-40%, Pinus peuce 5-15%, Corylus 5-12%, Quercus robur-type 10%, Quercus cerris-type 5-10%, Corylus 5-12%, Tilia 2-4%. Low pollen frequencies are found for Acer, Carpinus betulus, Ulmus, Alnus, Fagus and Picea. The continuouis pollen curve of Abies starts in this zone. The total arboreal PAR increases from 1500 to 3000 grains cm-2 yr-1, contributed mainly by Pinus diploxylon-type 1000, Betula 350-500, Quercus 200-400, Corylus up to 400. Herb pollen is represented by Poaceae 5-8%, Artemisia 3%, Cichoriaceae 2%, Rumex 2%, Ranunculus-type, Brassicaceae, Apiaceae, etc. The total PAR of the herbs is c. 500. Spores of Polypodiaceae do not exceed 5%.
LPAZ V-5 (425-315 cm, Pinus-Abies-Corylus) (8150-5350 cal. yrs. BP)
The pollen curves of Pinus peuce and Abies rise to 25% and 10%, respectively. The pollen frequency of Pinus diploxylon-type is 40-45%. The presence of deciduous tree pollen from Betula, Quercus cerris-type, Quercus robur-type, Corylus, Tilia and Ulmus declines. Pollen of Fagus and Picea, although with rather low frequencies, is regularly found. Pollen of Vitis, Humulus/Cannabis-type and Vaccinium-type is also recorded. The total PAR of arboreal taxa quickly increases to 7500-9500 grains cm-2 yr-1 (Pinus diploxylon-type 4000-4500, Pinus peuce 1500-2000, Corylus 800) and than declines to c. 4000. The relevant values for Abies reach 400-600. Significant changes in the presence of the herb pollen taxa are not observed, except for a slight rise of Cichoriaceae and a reduction of Polypodiaceae spores.
LPAZ V-6 (315-255 cm, Pinus-Abies-Fagus) (5350-3450 cal. yrs. BP)
Tree pollen dominates with 87-95%, attributed to Pinus diploxylon-type 40-60%, maximal frequencies for Pinus peuce 20-30%, Abies 10%, Quercus robur-type and Fagus each up to 3-5%. Pollen of deciduous trees from Carpinus betulus, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya, Ulmus, Tilia is constantly present with low values. The total PAR of arboreal taxa is between 3500 and 6000 grains cm-2 yr-1, contributed mainly by Pinus diploxylon-type 2000-2500, Pinus peuce 1000, Abies 450, Fagus 200. The most frequent herb pollen taxa are Poaceae 5%, Cichoriaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Ranunculus-type, Dianthus-type, Brassicaceae.
LPAZ V-7 (255-85 cm, Pinus-Picea-Fagus-Abies) (3450-950 cal. yrs. BP)
The sharp increase of Picea to 10-15% is accompanied by a maximum of Fagus 10%. Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type, Pinus peuce and partly Abies tends to decline. Minor values below 5% are recorded for pollen of Betula, Alnus, Corylus, Quercus robur-type, Quercus cerris-type and Carpinus betulus. Pollen of Juglans, Humulus/Cannabis-type and Vaccinium-type is occasionaly found. The total PAR of arboreal taxa is between 2500 and 4500 grains cm-2 yr-1. The values established for Picea are 400, for Fagus 200-300, and for Abies 200-600. The highest presence of Poaceae (up to 10% and PAR of 350), an increase for Cichoriaceae (PAR up to 900), Artemisia, Chenopodiaceae, Rumex, Brassicaceae is recorded. Pollen of Plantago lanceolata and Hordeum-type appears. The presence of Cyperaceae pollen and spores of Selaginella selaginoides and Sphagnum is worth mentioning.
LPAZ V-8 (85-0 cm, Pinus-Picea-Abies) (950 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
Arboreal pollen declines to 70%, attributed mainly to Abies, Picea, Fagus, Pinus peuce, Quercus and Betula. Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type reaches a maximum of 60%. The total PAR of arboreal taxa is similar to the previous zone, with some increase for Pinus diploxylon-type to 2000 grains cm-2 yr-1, and a decline for deciduous taxa and Abies. The herb pollen is characterized by higher values for Cichoriaceae (PAR up to 900), Apiaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Plantago lanceolata.
Stomata analysis
Fossil stomata from needles of conifers were identified and counted together with pollen. Their presence in absolute numbers is indicated on the pollen diagram (Fig.
Lakes Ostrezki (sites 7 and 8)
The group of Lakes Ostrezki comprises several lakes (42°07’12.57”N, 23°29’13.29”E) with permanent water surface and half a dozen smaller ones that dry up during summer. The group is located in the subalpine belt above the present tree-line on the western slope of a large cirque (Fig.
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
The core from Lake Ostrezko-2 was recovered from the northern peaty shore. The core is 2 m long. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-25 cm Sphagnum peat, 25-200 cm gyttja. The core from Lake Ostrezko-3 was recovered from the southern periphery at water depth of 0.7 m. The core is 1.8 m long. The sediment is gyttja. The equipment used was Dachnowsky hand-coring. The radiocarbon age of 5 bulk sediment samples was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Material dated |
| Ostrezko-2 | ||||
| B-6101 | 53-67 | 1290±40 | 1300-1080 (1190) |
gyttja |
| B-6617 | 95-105 | 2720±40 | 2920-2750 (2835) |
gyttja |
| B-6099 | 146-154 | 3510±40 | 3890-3640 (3765) |
gyttja |
| B-6098 | 175-185 | 4830±40 | 5650-5470 (5560) |
gyttja |
| Ostrezko-3 | ||||
| P-174 | 150-156 | 5700±35 | 6620-6400 (6510) |
gyttja |
Pollen analysis
The cores were sampled at 5-10 cm intervals and two percentage pollen diagrams are constructed (Figs
LPAZ OS-1: Lake Ostrezko-3 (180-155 cm, Pinus-Abies-Corylus) (~ 6760-6500 cal. yrs. BP)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type dominates with 40-50%, accompanied by Abies 5-10%, Pinus peuce 4% and deciduous tree pollen of Corylus 15-25%, Betula, Tilia, Ulmus and Quercus. Single pollen grains of Picea and Fagus are recorded. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 5-10%, Cichoriaceae, Artemisia, Centaurea, Dianthus-type, etc.
LPAZ OS-2: Lake Ostrezko-3 (155-117 cm); Lake Ostrezko-2 (200-145 cm) (Abies-Pinus) (6500-3670 cal. yrs. BP)
Pollen of Abies rises to 30% and Pinus diploxylon-type reaches 40-60%. The pollen curve of Fagus appears in this zone. Among the herb pollen taxa are determined Poaceae, Achillea-type, Cirsium-type, Apiaceae, etc.
LPAZ OS-3: Lake Ostrezko-3 (117-27 cm); Lake Ostrezko-2 (145-55 cm) (Pinus-Picea-Abies) (3670-1100 cal. yrs. BP)
The dominant pollen type is Pinus diploxylon with 50%. The pollen curve of Picea appears and increases to 7%. Pollen of Abies tends to decline and a slight increase for Fagus is established. The presence of Corylus pollen is insignificant. Alongside with the great variety of herb pollen taxa, the continuous presence of anthropogenic pollen indicators such as Plantago lanceolata, Plantago major/media-type, Scleranthus, Urtica and Galium-type begins.
LPAZ OS-4: Lake Ostrezko-3 (27-0 cm); Lake Ostrezko-2 (55-5 cm) (Pinus-Picea-Fagus) (1100 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type increases to 60-80%, as well as pollen of Picea and Fagus, each with 10%. The pollen curve of Abies declines to 8%. Pollen of Juglans is also found. Numerous herb pollen taxa are also determined, among them the share of the anthropogenic pollen indicators such as Plantago lanceolata, Rumex, Artemisia, Cichoriaceae, Secale, Hordeum-type increases.
Plant macrofossil analysis
The samples for plant macrofossil analysis were taken at every 10-20 cm and studied at magnification 10-40x. Macrofossils such as fruits and seeds are presented in absolute numbers per 20 ml (Lake Ostrezko-2) and per 40 ml (Lake Ostrezko-3). The abundance of wood fragments and remains of vegetative parts (stems, leaves, etc.) is shown on a relative scale by black dots (Figs
LMAZ MOS-1: Lake Ostrezko-2 (200-150 cm); Lake Ostrezko-3 (180-90 cm) (~ 6760-3760 cal. yrs. BP)
The fossil record contains needles, seeds, female cones of Pinus mugo, Pinus peuce, needles of Pinus sylvestris and wood of Pinus sp.; fruits of Alnus viridis; seeds and fruits of various herbs such as Dianthus, Silene, Thymus, etc. Charcoal particles are also found.
LMAZ MOS-2: Lake Ostrezko-2 (150-50 cm); Lake Ostrezko-3 (90-33 cm) (3760-1000 cal. yrs. BP)
There is abundance of needles of Pinus mugo, Pinus sylvestris and Juniperus sibirica. The first records of needles of Picea abies and Abies alba are established. Seeds of herbs from Cardamine, Cirsium, Doronicum, etc. are determined, as well as moss remains.
LMAZ MOS-3: Lake Ostrezko-2 (50-5 cm); Lake Ostrezko-3 (33-10 cm) (1100 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
The plant macrofoossil record is rather poor, represented by sporadic finds of needles of Pinus mugo, Pinus sylvestris, Picea abies, Juniperus sibirica; fruits of sedges and vegetative parts of mosses (Sphagnum, Drepanocladus).
Lake Suho Ezero-RM (site 9)
This lake is one of the lowest located lakes in the mountain at 1900 m (42°09’57.61”N, 23°25’07.30”E) northeast of the Rila Monastery (Fig.
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
A core 3.2 m long was obtained from the southwestern part with Dachnowsky hand-coring equipment when the lake was completely dried up. The lithological composition of the sediments shows an alternation of gyttja layers mixed with sand and of separate sand layers. The thickness of these layers varies from 2 to 25 cm. There is no regularity in the distribution of the two lithological units. One possible explanation for the formation of these layers might be the irregular drying of the lake and the deposition of coarse inorganic eroded material, which contributes to the absence of a stable hydrological regime. The position of these layers is indicated on the pollen diagram. The radiocarbon age of 2 bulk sediment samples was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Cal. AD (mid-point) | Material dated |
| LuA-4315 | 52-64 | 1290±100 | 1360-980 (1170) |
590-970 (780) |
gyttja with sand |
| LuA-4316 | 130-140 | 1470±110 | 1615-1170 (1400) |
335-780 (550) |
gyttja |
Pollen analysis
The core was sampled at 5 cm or at longer/shorter intervals to avoid the sand layers. On the pollen diagram (Fig.
LPAZ RM-1 (320-218 см, Pinus-Picea-Fagus)
The participation of Pinus diploxylon-type is 30-55%, Pinus peuce 5-13%, Picea up to 18%, Fagus 5-7%, Betula and Alnus each with 5-7%, Abies 5%, and minimal values for Juniperus, Quercus, Tilia, Corylus and Carpinus betulus. Pollen of Juglans is regularly found. The herb pollen taxa are rather diverse and present with low frequencies (except for Poaceae 5-15%) such as Cichoriaceae, Achillea-type, Artemisia, Chenopodiaceae, Scleranthus, Rumex, Dianthus-type, etc.
LPAZ RM-2 (218-133 см, Pinus-Abies)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type with 60% dominates together with Pinus peuce 18%. A maximal value of 16% is registered for Abies pollen. A slight increase to 12% is established for Quercus robur-type and Corylus 4%, while Fagus, Alnus and Betula decrease. Among the herb pollen taxa should be mentioned Cichoriaceae, Plantago lanceolata, Scleranthus, Ranunculaceae, Thalictrum, Gentiana, Cerealia-type, Triticum-type, etc.
LPAZ RM-3 (133-53 см, Pinus-Picea-Fagus) (1400-1170 cal. yrs. BP)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type retains its dominant role with 35-55%. Picea and partly Fagus, Betula, Alnus, Juniperus increase again. Pollen of Abies decreases to 2-3%. The herb pollen taxa are rather diverse, represented by Poaceae 18%, Achillea-type, Plantago lanceolata, Rumex, Scleranthus, Secale, Ranunculus-type, Apiaceae, Brassicaceae, Caltha-type, etc.
LPAZ RM-4 (53-0 см, Picea-Pinus) (1170 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
The pollen curve of Picea reaches maximal values of 20-23%, together with Pinus peuce 8-12%. Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type declines to 30%. The herb pollen taxa are almost the same like in the previous zone, with a more pronounceed presence of Rumex, Cerealia-type, Secale and Triticum-type.
Vegetation history in the Central Rila Mountain
Lateglacial
The oldest pollen record from the study area, bound to a consistent radiocarbon chronology, originates from the core retrieved from the subalpine Lake Manastirsko-2. It reveals the paleoenvironmental changes and vegetation dynamics for the last c. 14000 years. The lateglacial interval spans the lowermost 37 cm of the sequence (pollen zone LM-1, Fig.
The low PAR of trees c. 500 grains cm-2 yr-1 throughout the lateglacial interval, contributed mainly by Pinus diploxylon-type, confirms the scarce, most likely isolated presence of pines (Pinus mugo/sylvestris). The abundance of Pinus peuce and Betula can be considered as disparagingly low. Regarding the PAR of the main herbs, a steep decline in the values for both Artemisia and Chenopodiaceae is observed at 12700 cal. yrs. BP, and a gradual increase for the pollen influxes of Poaceae at the transition to the Holocene (Fig.
Holocene
Comprehensive information on the Holocene vegetation dynamics is obtained from Lake Manastirsko-2 and Peat bog Vodnza, while the paleoecological record from Lakes Ostrezki spans the last 6700 years and from Lake Suho Ezero-RM the last c. 2500-2000 years.
The amelioration of the climate at the onset of the Holocene has resulted in quick afforestation and diminishing of the areas occupied by the “mountain steppe” herb vegetation dominated by Artemisia, Chenopodiaceae and other cold-resistant herbs. Initially, during the time interval 11600-9800 cal. yrs. BP (the lower part of pollen zone LM-2, Fig.
Meanwhile, the birch forests continued to expand, particularly between 9800 and 7900 cal. yrs BP, and the participation of Pinus has gradually increased (pollen zone LM-2, Fig.
Gradually, Abies has steadily established in the vegetation cover while the occurrences of Fagus and Picea have remained still rare. A foregoing short-term peak of Abies pollen, registered at 9300 cal. yrs. BP (Fig.
The forest composition and the altitudinal vegetation zonation started to change after 8150/7900 cal. yrs. BP. The conifers Abies, Pinus and Pinus peuce enlarged their areas replacing at many places the birch forests and pushing the mixed oak forests and hazel downslope. Stands of Betula continued to be found within the coniferous belt or above the timber-line. The dynamic transformation lasted for c. 2000 years (pollen zones LM-3 and V-5, Figs
The paleoecological information from the area of the Seven Rila Lakes presents a synchronous pattern of vegetation changes, characterized by the expansion of Pinus and Abies and a decline for Betula. Fossil stomata of Pinus sp. were determined in the sediments of Lake Ribno (Tonkov et al., 2013) as well as fossil fruits of Betula in the sediments of Lake Sedmo Rilsko. In conformity with the above studies in the Northwestern Rila Mountain, the onset of this important change in the composition of the vegetation cover, confined to c. 8200-8000 cal. yrs. BP, was obviously triggered by a climate shift as shown by the summer and winter reconstructions of temperature and precipitation values across Europe. In summer, relatively cooler and somewhat wetter conditions established in many parts of Southern Europe, while in winter time cooler drier conditions prevailed (Davis et al., 2003; Mauri et al., 2013). The 8.2 ky climatic event has also probably influenced this change as the various aspects of this shift may have spread over a period of up to 600 years (Rohling, Palike, 2005). The short-term steep decline of the PAR of trees at 8230 cal. yrs. BP was established only from Lake Manastirsko-2 unlike the situation at Peat bog Vodniza. Quite probably, the reason was the lower ecological sensitivity and response of the arboreal vegetation to this climatic oscillation at lower altitudes.
The subsequent stage in the vegetation development between 5600/5350 and 3450 cal. yrs. BP has manifested the widest distribution of Pinus sylvestris, Pinus mugo, Pinus peuce and Abies in the Central Rila Mountain. The enlargement of the areas occupied by the conifers was facilitated by favorable climatic conditions, and after soils with stable humic horizons had developed (Bennett, Willis, 1995). The regular presence of fossil Pinus stomata confirms that pines were growing around the Peat bog Vodniza, and the high PAR for the coniferous species indicates the existence of a dense forest cover (Fig.
The paleoecological evidence from Lakes Ostrezki which extends back to c. 6700 cal. yrs. BP provides valuable information about the distribution of the main tree taxa and the position of the tree-line. The pollen frequencies and the plant macrofossils (needles and seeds) for the time window 6700-3770 cal. yrs. BP point to the existence of stands of Pinus mugo, Juniperus sibirica and Alnus viridis at that altitude among patches of herb vegetation. The high presence of Abies pollen (25-35%) confirms its participation in the composition of the coniferous belt, whereas a gradual decline for Pinus peuce has started after 4500 cal. yrs. BP. The tree-line shaped by Pinus sylvestris, Pinus peuce and some Abies was running in close proximity to the lakes, proved by the find of fossil needles and seeds (Fig.
After 3400 cal. yrs. BP Picea abies spread into the coniferous belt and its maximal distribution was attained between 2250 and 1100 cal. yrs BP in the conditions of a changing climate with lower average temperatures and increase in precipitation (van Geel et al., 1998). Pines and fir partly declined while birch slightly increased. Beech also started to enlarge at lower altitudes along the mountain river valleys. The appearance of fossil stomata of Picea abies and the steep increase of its PAR undoubtedly points that spruce has reached the elevation of the Peat bog Vodniza c. 3100 cal. yrs. BP (Figs
In the diagrams from Lakes Ostrezki the decline of Abies pollen c. 3500 cal. yrs. BP is accompanied by a rise of Picea pollen and the apperance of its first macrofossils (needles) at 2800-2700 cal. yrs. BP. In comparison, the palynological records from the area of the Seven Rila Lakes indicate also that the first of several expansion maxima of spruce in the Northwestern Rila Mountains was reached c. 2800-2600 cal. yrs. BP.
Indications of human presence are clearly visible in the pollen diagrams of Lake Manastirsko-2 and Peat bog Vodniza after c. 3400 cal. yrs. BP when pollen grains of Hordeum-type and Secale are determined, pointing to agricultural activities in the foothills of the mountain (Figs
In the pollen and plant macrofossil diagrams from Lakes Ostrezki the continuous pollen curves of Plantago lanceolata, Rumex, Scleranthus, Urtica, considered as indicators of human disturbance in mountainous areas, appear at 3770 cal. yrs. BP. Part of Poaceae, Artemisia and Cichoriaceae pollen could be also included in this group. The abundance of charcoal fragments just before 3770 cal. yrs. BP and c. 2800 cal. yrs. BP presumes that some of the forest fires were caused by the local people to extend the areas for high mountain-pasture land. The decrease of macrofossils from Pinus sylvestris and Pinus peuce, alongside with the finds from heliophilous herbs like Potentilla sp., Dianthus sp., Silene sp., Doronicum austriacum, indicates openings in the vegetation cover and lowering of the tree-line.
The evidence for the first signs of anthropogenic impact, derived from the area of the Seven Rila Lakes, is comparable with the presence of anthropogenic indicators such as Plantago lanceolata and Rumex in the fossil records of Lakes Ostrezki after 3400-3200 cal. yr BP, coinciding with the starting point of increase for Fagus and Picea abies.
In the vicinity of Lake Suho Ezero-RM forests of Pinus sylvestris, Pinus peuce and stands of Pinus mugo were distributed c. 2500-2000 years ago. The presence of Picea pollen with 10-18% shows that spruce has already gained a considerable participation in the composition of the coniferous forests, while Fagus has enlarged mainly below 1300 m along the valley of the Rilska river. The rise of Abies pollen curve could be explained with a thinner forest filter and easier pollen transport upslope, rather than by an increase of fir in the coniferous forests. The herb vegetation on open places was rather diverse in species composition and the presence of anthropophytes as Rumex, Scleranthus and some Chenopodiaceae species is connected with reclamation of new areas for high-mountain pastures (Fig.
The vegetation development in historical time was characterized by an intensification of the anthropogenic impact, proved by the increase of pollen for Cichoriaceae, Plantago lanceolata and Scleranthus, indicative of livestock-grazing in the mountain meadows. The find of Juglans pollen points to its cultivation. After c. 1000 cal. yrs. BP at many places the tree-line was artificially lowered in order to extend mountain pasture land.
The last enlargement of Picea abies, and partly of Fagus, as recorded from Lake Manastirsko-2 was reached c. 1700 cal. yrs. BP and afterwards both trees started to decline. The vegetation development around Peat bog Vodniza, particularly after 900 cal. yrs. BP, featured an intensification of the anthropogenic impact, proved by the increase of pollen for Cichoriaceae, Plantago lanceolata, Plantago major/media, Rumex, Scleranthus, indicative of grazing in the mountain meadows. Larger areas were occupied by Pinus, mostly Pinus mugo in the subalpine belt. A tendency for a decline of the PAR for Abies, Pinus peuce, Betula, Quercus, and partly for Picea, is observed after 1500 cal. yrs. BP in the diagrams of Lake Manastirsko-2 and Peat bog Vodniza (Figs
The macrofossil record in the sediments of Lakes Ostrezki after 1240 cal. yr BP is rather poor, comprising only scarce needles of Pinus mugo, Juniperus sibirica and other occasional finds, which reflect the characteristics of the present-day vegetation in the subalpine belt as highly influenced by humans.
Southwestern Rila Mountain – Study sites
Lake Sucho Ezero (site 10)
This peat bog, a former lake, is situated 6 km westwards from the mountain resort Trestenik at 1900 m (42°03’52.46”N; 23°34’03.32”E) in a glacial valley in the lower of the two troughs. The upper one still contains a lake with open water while the investigated site is filled in with sediments, except for a small streamlet meandering through it (Fig.
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
The coring of the lake was performed in the central part with motor Streif sampler in plastic tubes each 1 m long and 5 cm in diameter. The Core-2 is 12 m long. The lithology of the sediments is: 10-630 cm peat, 630-780 cm peaty gyttja, 780-900 cm gyttja, 900-1100 cm grey clay and 1100-1200 cm grey silt. The radiocarbon age of 2 bulk sediment samples was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Material dated |
| Core-1 | ||||
| Gr | 50-55 | 1620±60 | 1700-1350 (1525) |
peat |
| Gr | 170-180 | 2185±35 | 2320-2110 (2205) |
peat |
| Gr | 280-300 | 2880±30 | 3150-2880 (3015) |
peat |
| Core-2 | ||||
| Hv | 540-560 | 5680±75 | 6640-6310 (6475) |
peat |
| Hv | 850-853 | 10575±220 | 12960-11750 (12355) | gyttja |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 2, 4 or 10 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ SE-1 (1200-913 сm, Artemisia-Chenopodiaceae-Poaceae)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type is 20-40% and of Pinus peuce 5-8%. Single pollen grains or small quantities of pollen are determined from Betula, Ephedra distachya-type, Quercus. The herb pollen taxa dominate represented by Artemisia 35-40%, Chenopodiaceae 30%, Poaceae 5-10%, Achillea-type, Cichoriaceae, Centaurea, Rumex, Ranunculaceae and Caryophyllaceae.
LPAZ SE-2 (913-865 сm, Pinus-Betula-Poaceae-Artemisia)
The quantity of arboreal pollen reaches 45-50%, contributed by Pinus diploxylon-type 30-35%, Betula 13%, Pinus peuce 3-5%, Quercus 2%, Alnus, Salix, etc. The presence of herb pollen taxa declines but their variety increases represented by Artemisia 12%, Chenopodiaceae 5-10%, Poaceae up to 20%, Achillea-type 5-7%, Apiaceae 7%, Rumex, Caryophyllaceae, Galium-type, Plantago major/media-type, etc.
LPAZ SE-3 (865-825 сm, Artemisia-Poaceae-Chenopodiaceae)
The quantity of arboreal pollen sharply decreases to 20% and low frequencies are registered for Pinus diploxylon-type 10%, Pinus peuce 1-2%, Betula 3%, Quercus 2%. The rest of tree taxa are absent or represented by single pollen grains. The main herb pollen taxa such as Artemisia up to 25-35%, Chenopodiaceae 12%, Poaceae 15-20% increase again.
LPAZ SE-4 (825-620 сm, Betula-Quercetum mixtum-Pinus)
Tree pollen rises quickly to 65-70%, due to Betula 15-20%, Quercus 15%, Ulmus, Tilia and Corylus each with 3-5%, Juniperus 2%. The pollen curves of Carpinus betulus, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya and Acer appear. The lowest values for Pinus diploxylon-type 5-8% are registered. Subsequently, a maximum of 10-12% for Corylus is established as well as for Ulmus, Tilia and Fraxinus excelsior-type. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 15-18%, Ranunculaceae 5%, Rumex 8%, Apiaceae 5%, Artemisia up to 5%, Chenopodiaceae 3%, Rosaceae, Dianthus-type, etc.
LPAZ SE-5 (620-433 сm, Pinus-Abies)
The presence of Pinus diploxylon-type increases to 43%, Pinus peuce up to 12% and Abies 5-7%. The pollen frequencies of Betula, Quercus, Corylus and Alnus decline to 8%, 5-7%, 3% and 2%, respectively. Low quantities of Fagus and Picea pollen are recorded in almost all samples. The total herb pollen decreases to 18% without any important changes in the variety of the pollen types. New pollen taxa are Triticum-type, Viola, Filipendula.
LPAZ SE-6 (433-140 сm, Pinus-Abies-Fagus-Picea)
The pollen values of Pinus diploxylon-type reach 60-65% and of Abies 15-20%. In this zone appears the pollen curve of Fagus up to 5%. The presence of Picea increases sharply to 15-18%. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae, Artemisia, Cichoriaceae, and the presence of Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus-type, Sanguisorba minor pollen is regular.
LPAZ SE-7 (140-0 сm, Picea-Pinus-Fagus)
The pollen curve of Pinus diploxylon-type fluctuates around 40-50%, accompanied by Picea 10%, Pinus peuce 5-12%, Abies 10%, Fagus 7-8%, Quercus 10%, Corylus 5%, Juniperus, Salix. Pollen grains of Juglans are regularly found. The pollen curve of Poaceae reaches maximal values of 15-30% and the presence of Achillea-type, Rumex, Ranunculaceae, Plantago major/media-type, Plantago lanceolata, Cerealia-type, Secale, Triticum-type pollen is worth mentioning.
Plant macrofossil analysis
The core was sampled also at 15-25 cm interval. Plant macrofossils were not established in the intervals 915-1120 сm and 0-50 cm. The frequency of the macrofossils found is shown in absolute numbers on a diagram (Fig.
LMAZ MSE-1 (915-825 сm)
Several seeds from Silene sp., Juncus sp., Bruckenthalia spiculifolia, fruits of Carex sp. and a needle of Pinus peuce are determined.
LMAZ MSE-2 (825-600 сm)
A characteristic feature is the abundance of fruits and bud-scales of Betula. Needles and bud-scales of Pinus sp. (Pinus sylvestris, Pinus mugo and Pinus peuce), seeds of Juncus sp., Cardamine sp., Bruckenthalia spiculifolia, Silene sp. and fruits of Carex sp. are present.
LMAZ MSE-3 (600-310 сm)
Needles of Pinus peuce and Pinus sp., bud-scales от Pinus sp. are determined. The number of Betula fruits is lower compared to the previous zone. Seeds of Juncus sp., Bruckenthalia spiculifolia, Silene sp. and fruits of Carex sp. are found.
LMAZ MSE-4 (310-170 сm)
Needles and seeds of Picea abies appear in this zone. The number of needles and bud-scales of Pinus sp. increases. There are well preserved needles of Pinus peuce, fruits of Betula and Carex sp., seeds of Juncus sp. and Potentilla sp.
LMAZ MSE-5 (170-50 сm)
The number of plant macrofossils is rather low, including sporadical finds of needles of Pinus sp. and Picea abies, seeds of Potentilla sp. and fruits of Carex sp.
Peat bog Vapsko-1 (site 11)
The peat bog is situated in a depression in the lower part of the subalpine belt at 2143 m (42°04’34.04”N, 23°31’25.84”E) just above the present tree-line (Fig.
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
The sediment core is 1.5 m long and was collected with Dachnowsky hand-coring equipment from the central part of the peat bog. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-40 cm slightly decomposed Sphagnum-Cyperaceae peat, 40-135 cm Cyperaceae peat and 135-150 cm clay with fine sand. The radiocarbon age of 4 bulk sediment samples was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Material dated |
| RICH-23864 | 23-26 | 2171±28 | 2310-2060 (2185) |
peat |
| UBA- 21556 | 47-50 | 4046±33 | 4790-4420 (4605) |
peat |
| UBA- 21557 | 97-100 | 6143±40 | 7170-6930 (7050) |
peat |
| UBA- 21558 | 147-150 | 8867±52 | 10180-9740 (9960) |
clay with sand |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 5 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ VP-2 (150-113 cm, Betula-Quercetum mixtum-Corylus-Pinus) (10000-7900 cal. yrs. BP)
Tree pollen dominates with 50-65%, attributed to Betula 17%, Pinus diploxylon-type 10% with a short-term peak of 30%, Pinus peuce and Juniperus each below 5%, Corylus 10-15%, Quercus robur-type 10%, Quercus cerris-type 7% and Tilia 6%. Low pollen frequencies of Abies, Carpinus betulus, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya, and traces of Fagus, Picea, Vitis and Hedera pollen are found. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae and Apiaceae, each up to 13-15%, Cirsium-type 10-5%, Artemisia 5%, Rumex 5%, Ranunculus-type, Brassicaceae, Dianthus-type, etc. High values of Polypodiaceae spores 10-17% are recorded.
LPAZ VP-3 (113-77 cm, Pinus-Abies-Betula-Corylus) (7900-5900 cal. yrs. BP).
Tree pollen icreases to 88%, due mainly to Pinus diploxylon-type 40-70%, Pinus peuce 5-10%, Corylus 10-15%, Betula 13%, Quercus robur-type and Quercus cerris-type each with 5%. Subsequently, pollen of deciduous trees from Betula, Quercus robur-type, Quercus cerris-type, Corylus, Tilia and Ulmus quickly declines. The continuous pollen curve of Abies appears with 2-5% and rises to 12%. Sporadical pollen grains of Picea, Carpinus betulus and Acer are found. The total herb pollen is 5-10%, and the main pollen taxa registered are Poaceae, Cirsium-type, Brassicaceae, Apiaceae and Rumex.
LPAZ VP-4 (77-37 cm, Pinus-Abies) (5900-3500 cal. yrs. BP)
Coniferous pollen dominates represented by Pinus diploxylon-type 80%, Pinus peuce 8-10%, maximal values for Abies 12-15%. Pollen of deciduous trees such as Betula, Alnus, Quercus, Carpinus betulus, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya, Tilia, Corylus is constantly present with rather low frequencies. Pollen of Fagus and Picea is recorded in all samples with 1-2%. The most common herb pollen taxa are Poaceae up to 8%, Artemisia, Apiaceae, Cirsium-type, Chenopodiaceae, Ranunculus-type, Dianthus-type, Brassicaceae, etc.
LPAZ VP-5 (37-0 cm, Pinus-Picea-Fagus-Abies) (3500 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
The pollen curves of Picea 8% and Fagus up to 5% rise, while pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type and Abies declines to 50% and 3-5%, respectively. The presence of Pinus peuce remains without changes. Minor values below 2-3% are recorded for Betula, Alnus, Corylus, Quercus robur-type, Quercus cerris-type, Carpinus betulus and Juniperus. Pollen of Humulus/Cannabis-type, Vitis and Vaccinium-type is occasionaly found. The total herb pollen increases to 30%, attributed mainly to Poaceae 15%, Artemisia and Apiaceae each with 2-3%, Chenopodiaceae, Achillea-type, Brassicaceae, Campanulaceae, etc. The continuous presence of Plantago lanceolata and Scleranthus pollen is recorded in this zone. Pollen of Secale is also determined.
Peat bog Vapsko-2 (site 12)
The peat bog is located at 2120 m (42°04’26.85”N, 23°31’27.81”E) in the lower range of the subalpine belt, at the present timberline, c. 220 m southeast from the Peat bog Vapsko-1 (Fig.
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
The sediment core is 3.05 m long and was collected with Dachnowsky hand-coring equipment from the deepest part of the peat bog. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-195 cm slightly decomposed Cyperaceae peat with plant remains, 195-280 cm peaty gyttja and 280-305 cm gyttja with fine sand. The radiocarbon age of 10 samples (3 of plant macrofossils and 7 of bulk sediment) was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Material dated |
| DeA-10895 | 24 | 2121±26 | 2290-2000 (2095) |
peat |
| DeA-10105 | 55 | 3636±30 | 4080-3860 (3970) |
wood |
| DeA-10896 | 72 | 4333±29 | 4970-4840 (4905) |
peat |
| RICH-21695 | 102-104 | 4778±37 | 5600-5330 (5465) |
peat |
| DeA-10106 | 142 | 5165±32 | 6000-5760 (5880) |
seed |
| RICH-21694 | 194-196 | 6417±44 | 7430-7260 (7345) |
peat |
| DeA-10897 | 215 | 7605±48 | 8540-8340 (8440) |
peaty gyttja |
| DeA-10107 | 237 | 8700±58 | 9890-9540 (9715) |
wood |
| DeA-10898 | 273 | 9153±46 | 10490-10220 (10355) |
peaty gyttja |
| RICH-21693 | 302-304 | 10301±51 | 12390-11830 (12110) |
gyttja with fine sand |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 5 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
Pollen accumulation rates (PAR; pollen grains cm-2 yr-1) for the main tree/shrub and herb taxa from Peat bog Vapsko-2 plotted against age (cal. yrs. BP).
LPAZ VP-1 (305-292 cm, Artemisia-Chenopodiaceae-Poaceae) (12100-11600 cal. yrs.BP)
Herb pollen dominates, attributed to Artemisia 35-40%, Chenopodiaceae 10-12%, Poaceae 16%, Rumex 6%, Apiaceae 5%, etc. Tree pollen constitutes only 20%, represented by Pinus diploxylon-type 10%, Betula and Pinus peuce less than 5% each, minor values for Juniperus, Quercus, Alnus and Corylus. The total PAR is rather low 1000-2000 grains cm-2 yr-1 with prevailance of the herbs such as Artemisia 500-750, Poaceae 250-350 and Chenopodiaceae 200.
LPAZ VP-2 (292-207 cm, Betula-Quercetum mixtum-Corylus-Pinus) (11600-7980 cal. yrs. BP)
Тree pollen quickly rises to 35-75%, due to Betula up to 27%, Quercus cerris-type 10-18%, Quercus robur-type 10%, Corylus with a maximum of 18%, Ulmus, Tilia, Hedera, Vitis, etc. Coniferous pollen is represented by Pinus diploxylon-type 10%, Juniperus 5%, Pinus peuce 5%. Fossil stomata of Pinus sp. and Juniperus are determined. Herb pollen values decline, contributed mainly by Poaceae 10-25%, Artemisia, Rumex, Cirsium-type, Apiaceae each with 5%. The maximal presence of Polypodiaceae spores with 15% is recorded in this zone. The total tree PAR increases and reaches 5000 grains cm-2 yr-1 contributed mainly by Betula up to 2000, Quercus up to 1600, Ulmus and Tilia each with 400, Pinus up to 400-600. The PAR of total herb pollen attains maximal values of c. 2000-2500, contributed mainly by Poaceae 1000, Artemisia, Chenopodiaceae and Cirsium-type with 100-300 each.
LPAZ VP-3 (207–142 cm, Pinus-Abies-Betula-Corylus) (7980-5900 cal. yrs. BP)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type rises to 65% and Pinus peuce displays a maximal value of 18%. The continuous pollen curve of Abies appears and reaches 10%. Deciduous tree pollen is represented by Betula and Corylus each up to 10%, Quercus cerris-type 8%, Quercus robur-type, Tilia, Ulmus and Carpinus each less than 5%. Fossil stomata of Juniperus and Abies are determined. The diversity of herb pollen taxa is high but they are present with minor values, except for Poaceae 8%. Pollen of Cyperaceae shows a maximum of 10%. Compared to the previous zone, the total PAR of tree pollen retains its value of c. 5000 grains cm-2 yr-1 but now contributed by Pinus diploxylon-type c. 2500, Pinus peuce up to 1000, Abies 500, Corylus up to 400.
LPAZ VP-4 (142-47 cm, Pinus-Abies) (5900-3500 cal. yrs. BP)
In this zone pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type dominates with 75%, Pinus peuce 15% and Abies 10-15%. Fossil stomata of Pinus sp., Juniperus and Abies are determined. In the upper part of the zone appear the continuous pollen curves of Fagus and Picea each below 5%. There are no changes in the participation of the herb pollen taxa. The PAR of total tree pollen attains maximal values of c. 12500-20000 grains cm-2 yr-1 due to Pinus diploxylon-type up to 10000, Pinus peuce 2000-2500 and Abies 2000.
LPAZ VP-5 (47-0 cm, Pinus-Picea-Fagus-Abies) (3500 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
The pollen curves of Pinus diploxylon-type and Pinus peuce decline to 40-60% and 5%, respectively, while Fagus and Picea are represented with 5%. Minor values are recorded for deciduous tree pollen from Quercus cerris-type, Quercus robur-type, Betula, Corylus, Carpinus, etc. The quantity of herb pollen increases, attributed to Poaceae 15%, Cichoriaceae 20%, Brassicaceae, Apiaceae, Artemisia, Plantago lanceolata, Secale, etc. The PAR of total tree pollen declines to 2500-5000 grains cm-2 yr-1 but it is noteworthy to mention the maximal values for Picea and Fagus up to 400-600 and 200-300, respectively. The total PAR for herbs marks an increase to 1000-1500.
Vegetation history in the Southwestern Rila Mountain
Lateglacial
The palynological and macrofossil data as well as the radiocarbon dates provide reliable information on the changes in the vegetation and climate in the Southwestern Rila Mountain in postglacial time. The estimated age of Core-2 from Lake Suho Ezero is probably close to the one for the sediment cores from the cirque of the Seven Rila Lakes, i.e. older than 16000 cal. yrs. BP. The possibility of earlier sedimentation is also not ruled out, given the lower altitude of 1900 m at which this former lake is located. The pollen stratigraphy and the radiocarbon date 10575±220 14C yrs. BP (12355 cal. yrs. BP) (Fig.
The changes in the vegetation are in many aspects similar and synchronous to those established from other parts of the mountain. The end of the Pleniglacial and the beginning of the Lateglacial was characterized by a wide distribution of cold- and drought-resistant herb vegetation of „mountain-steppe“ character with dominance of Artemisia, Chenopodiaceae and Poaceae, with the participation of Cichoriaceae, Achillea, Galium, Cirsium and Caryophyllaceae species. Isolated stands of pines (Pinus sylvestris, Pinus mugo, Pinus peuce), Betula and Ephedra were also found (pollen zone SE-1, Fig.
The improvement of the climate during the Bölling/Alleröd interstadial complex is reflected in pollen zone SE-2 when a number of tree species (Pinus sylvestris, Pinus peuce, Pinus mugo, Betula, Alnus, Salix, Quercus, etc.) migrated along the mountain slopes and enlarged their presence. The herb communities remained dominant in the area around the Lake Suho Ezero with an increase in the participation of Poaceae, Achillea, Apiaceae, Rumex species at the expense of Artemisia and Chenopodiaceae. In addition, a change in the lithological composition of the sediments from grey clay to gyttja with a higher content of organic material is established (Fig.
The last climatic deterioration at the end of the Lateglacial, the Younger Dryas stadial, is documented in the pollen and plant macrofossil records from Lake Suho Ezero (zones SE-3 and MSE-1, Figs
At higher elevation, in the area of the Vapski peat bogs, the pollen assemblages also reveal typical glacial conditions during the second half of the Younger Dryas stadial. The vegetation was dominated by open herb communities composed of Artemisia, Chenopodiaceae, Poaceae, and other cold-resistant species from Achillea, Cirsium, Cichoriaceae, Rumex, Galium, Apiaceae and Dianthus, confirmed also by their high PAR (Fig.
Holocene
The transition Lateglacial to Holocene is clearly evident in the pollen and macrofossil diagrams from Lake Suho Ezero with the rapid increase of the total tree pollen, the appearance of plant macrofossils from Betula, and, subsequently from Pinus sp., Pinus peuce and Populus tremula. Stands of Betula and Pinus have replaced the herb communities dominated by Poaceae, Artemisia and Chenopodiaceae. At lower elevations the expansion of the mixed oak forests has started with significant participation of Ulmus, Tilia, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer, and later on Corylus and Carpinus betulus (zones SE-4 and MSE-2, Figs
The palynological records from higher elevation confirm also that, initially, forests of Betula and stands of Pinus and Juniperus, with undergrowth of ferns, have colonized areas on barren soils (pollen zone VP-2, Figs
Wood from Salix sp., fruits from Betula sp. and Alnus viridis, seeds from Juniperus cf. sabina, Vaccinium cf. myrtillus, Poaceae, Asteraceae, Apiaceae were determined, particularly after 9500 cal. yrs. BP, in the sediments of Peat bog Vapsko-1 (Hoevers, 2017).
The pollen spectra indicate widespread of oak forests with Tilia, Ulmus, Fraxinus below the birch zone, and the expansion of Corylus on more open areas started after 9800 cal. yrs. BP. Pollen of Vitis, Hedera and Humulus/Cannabis, originating from low altitudes, was also found. The reconstruction of the vegetation of the peat bogs revealed that it consisted mainly of Poaceae, Artemisia, Achillea, Cirsium, Cichoriaceae, Apiaceae, Rumex and Cyperaceae species.
In the vicinity of Lake Suho Ezero the vegetation was stabilized, dominated by communities of Betula with groups of Pinus and Juniperus which shaped the upper timber-line. Below the birch zone the mixed oak forests have climbed higher, compared to the present-day situation, but did not reach the area of the lake as plant macro-remains from deciduous trees are absent.
An important change in the composition of the vegetation cover has begun after c. 7900 cal. yrs. BP when the conifers (Pinus, Pinus peuce, Abies) expanded, replacing at many places the birch forests. Compared to the previous vegetation stage, the total PAR of tree pollen recorded from Peat bog Vapsko-2 retains its values but contributed now mainly by Pinus, Pinus peuce, Abies and Corylus (Fig.
The fossil record from Lake Suho Ezero (zones SE-5 and МSE-3, Figs
After 5900 cal. yrs. BP Pinus and Abies retained their dominant role in the forest cover at mid-high altitudes and reached maximal distribution, as clearly supported by the increased values of PAR of coniferous trees like Pinus mugo, Pinus sylvestris, Pinus peuce and Abies (Fig.
The paleobotanical evidence from Lake Suho Ezero is quite similar in support of the dominance of the coniferous forests when the maximal distribution of Abies, Pinus sylvestris and possibly of Pinus mugo communities was attained. It can be assumed on the basis of the pollen data that the coniferous forest belt has climbed c. 200 m higher than nowadays. This assumption is confirmed by the determination of fossil wood from Abies alba, Pinus peuce, Picea abies, Pinus mugo, Betula and Salix between 3000 and 2220 cal. yrs. BP in Core-1 (Chakalova, Dimitrova, 1980). It is also worth to mention the beginning of a certain increase and more noticeable presence of Fagus in the Southwestern Rila Mountain.
In the course of the last three millennia the anthropogenic intervention in the natural vegetation cover has resulted in openings in the coniferous forests. Indications of human impact, mainly of pasture activities, are documented by the presence of pollen of Plantago lanceolata, Scleranthus, Artemisia, Cichoriaceae, and grasses. Like in other parts of the Rila Mountain, Picea abies and Fagus expanded, and the coniferous belt was dominated by Pinus peuce with admixtures of Pinus sylvestris, Picea abies and Abies alba. Dense communities of Pinus mugo have spread on vast areas in the the subalpine belt.
In the area of Lake Suho Ezero Picea abies rapidly expanded, as confirmed by the considerable amount of pollen and macrofossils (needes and seeds) found. The enlargement of the spruce forests was dated at 3000 cal. yrs. BP (Bozilova, Smith, 1979). The later appearance and development of spruce forests in the Southern Rila Mountain can be explained by the ecological requirements of spruce, its competitive relationship with Abies and Fagus, as well as with the location of the main lateglacial refugia.
In historical time the intensification of the anthropogenic impact has resulted in destructive changes which had mainly affected the coniferous forests, with a decrease for Pinus sylvestris, Picea abies, Pinus peuce and Abies alba, and the opening of new areas occupied by herb vegetation (zones SE-7 and МSE-5, Figs
Disturbances by fire are among the most important processes that shape forest dynamics and diversity. The first long-term Holocene record of fire regimes in the upper montane forests of the Balkans from the area of Vapski peat bogs was presented, based on macrocharcoal morphologies in combination with pollen-based reconstruction of forest dynamics and fire-related strategies. While biomass burning followed the main trends in climate, the frequency and intensity of fires were strongly linked to fire-related coping strategies of dominant tree taxa (invaders, resisters or avoiders). The invaders are species that are killed by fire but able to penetrate into freshly burned areas (Betula, Alnus, Polypodiaceae, Poaceae and all herbs). The resisters are able to survive surface fires of low to medium intensity (Pinus sylvestris/Pinus mugo, Pinus peuce, Juniperus) and the avoiders include shade-tolerant species easily killed by fire (Picea abies, Abies alba). The results indicated 30 fire episodes with a variable temporal distribution over the record, indicative of several distinct fire regime periods. Frequent, low-intensity fire episodes at the termination of the Lateglacial and the beginning of the Holocene between 12000 and 9000 cal. yrs. BP were concurrent with the dominance of invaders (Betula, Alnus, Poaceae, Polypodiaceae). Intermittent occurrence of low- and high-intensity surface and crown fires with longer return intervals between 9000 and 4000 cal. yrs. BP was associated with codominance of resister (Pinus sylvestris, Pinus mugo, Pinus peuce) and avoider (Abies alba and Picea abies) forest types. The lengthening of the fire return interval over the past 4000 years was linked to increased abundance of Picea abies. For the period between 4050 and 2150 cal. yrs. a lower biomass burning and small-scale surface fires was registered. A rising number of fire episodes may drive land cover towards more fire-adapted plant communities and less intense fire events with increased dominance of invaders (resprouters that rapidly reach maturity stage) as well as resisters (properties protecting from fire damage) under future warmer and drier climate. This study also showed the potential of combining charcoal morphologies with pollen records to track variability in fire intensity and plant functional attributes over long timescales that are also relevant to forest management stakeholders (Feurdean et al., 2019).
3. Pirin Mountain
Physico-geographical characteristics and modern vegetation
Pirin Mountain (peak Vihren, 2914 m) is the third highest on the Balkan peninsula and constitutes part of the vast Rila-Rhodopes massif in Southern Bulgaria. It occupies an area of 2585 km2 between 41°25‘-41°55‘N and 23°07‘-23°53‘E in the southwestern corner of Bulgaria, surrounded to the west and east by the valleys of the Struma and Mesta rivers, Rila Mountain to the north and Slavyanka Mountain (peak Gotsev, 2212 m) to the south. The mountain range stretches 70 km in a northwest-southeast direction with an average width of 30-35 km (Fig.
Map of sites in the Pirin Mountain mentioned in text: 13. Lake Ribno Banderishko (Tonkov et al., 2002; Tonkov, Possnert, 2021); 14. Lake Muratovo (Bozilova et al., 2004); 15. Peat bog Mozgovitsa (Tonkov, 2003; Marinova, Tonkov, 2012); 16. Peat bog Mutorog and 17. Peat bog Popovi Livadi (Panovska et al., 1995); P. Peat bog Praso (Stefanova, Oeggl, 1993); B. Lake Bezbog (Stefanova et al., 2006); PE-6. Lake Popovo Ezero-6 (Stefanova, Bozilova, 1995); K-5. Lake Kremensko-5 (Atanassova, Stefanova, 2003; Stefanova et al., 2006).
At the beginning of the Quaternary Pirin Mountain was raised several times and denudation plains of different heights and ages were formed, together with steep slopes between them. The best developed denudation surfaces are the ridge and the second one from top to bottom, on which the glacial cirques and the predominant part of the lakes and peat bogs have formed. The discussion on the number of Quaternary glaciations and their characteristics continues (Velchev, 1995, 2020). Most researchers accept the opinion that here is clear evidence to support the idea of two glaciations equitable with the Riss and Würm in the Alps (Lilienberg, Popov, 1966; Popov, 1966; Grȕnewald, Scheithauer, 2011, etc.).
The glaciations were restricted to the Northern Pirin Mountain where typical glacial landforms such as cirques, numerous lakes (119), trough river beds, hanging valleys and moraines were formed on the northeastern slopes. The mountain valley glaciers extended down to c. 1600-1400 m.
Pirin Mountain belongs to the South-Bulgarian climatic region where the sub-mediterranean influence penetrates along the valleys of the Struma and Mesta rivers. Above 1000 m the climate is a typically montane and the mean annual temperature depends on the hypsometric bands. The annual amount of precipitation is 800-1250 mm with a maximum in November-December, much of which is snow above 1500 m. The northwestern winds, 6-10 m/sec prevail, but during winter the frequency of southwestern winds increases (Tishkov, 1976).
The brown mountain-forest (Cambisols) and mountain-meadow soils (Umbrisols) are typical. Dark-colored mountain-forest soils (Humic Cambisols) are widespread within the subalpine belt (Ninov, 1997).
According to the last geobotanical zoning Pirin Mountain is included as a separate region within the Illyrian (Balkan) Province of the European Deciduous Forest Area (Bondev, 2002). The modern vegetation of Pirin Mountain resembles a unique combination of central-european, arctic-alpine and mediterranean species. Their distribution in several vegetation altitudinal belts is determined by the contrast between limestone and siliceous areas (Velchev, Tonkov, 1986; Bondev, 1991).
The lowest belt up to 500 m is locally represented only in the southern part of the mountain and consists of communities with mediterranean elements such as Quercus coccifera, Juniperus excelsa and Phillyrea latifolia. The xerothermic oak belt (up to 600-700 m) occurs on the western and southern slopes. The dominant species are Quercus pubescens, Quercus frainetto and Carpinus orientalis, with Paiurus spina-christii and numerous mediterranean and submediterranean herbs. The xeromesophilous oak and hornbeam belt (600-1000 m) is characterized by Quercus dalechampii and Carpinus betulus with an admixture of Ostrya carpinifolia and Fagus sylvatica. Vast areas are occupied by Pinus nigra on the western and northern slopes. The beech belt (1000-1500 m) is fragmented, identified predominantly in the central and southern parts of the mountain by the communities of Fagus sylvatica, mixed in some areas with Abies alba, Pinus nigra and Picea abies. The coniferous belt (1500-2000 m) is the most compact and well-developed vegetation belt with a diverse flora. On both limestone and silicate areas grows Pinus sylvestris. The Balkan endemic Pinus peuce and Picea abies form the upper timber-line in many places. Relict communities of the Balkan subendemic Pinus heldreichii occur exclusively on limestone areas in the northern part. Stands of Abies alba are also found. The subalpine belt (2000-2500 m) is dominated by thick impenetrable stands of Pinus mugo with Juniperus sibirica and Vaccinium myrtillus. Calcareous areas of the alpine belt (2500-2914 m) in the northern part support herb communities of Sesleria coerulans, Carex kitaibeliana, Dryas octopetala and the dwarf-willow Salix reticulata, while on silicate areas Carex curvula, Agrostis rupestris, Festuca airoides and Empetrum nigrum are common. A characteristic feature of the modern vegetation is the presence of a large group of Balkan and Bulgarian endemics, including 30 local endemics. They are predominantly distributed in the uppermost two vegetation belts and a part of them are termed glacial relics. The present-day vegetation in all zones is influenced to a large extent by anthropogenic activities. A large area in the northern part of the mountain, famous for its unique landscape and flora, is protected in the Pirin National Park.
Northern Pirin Mountain – Study sites
Lake Ribno Banderishko (site 13)
The group of Banderishki Lakes on the Northern Pirin Mountain is situated in a large cirque of the same name. The Banderitsa river derives its water from all 20 lakes in the cirque. Lake Ribno Banderishko is the largest one and is situated at 2190 m (41°44’17.66”N, 23°24’53.86”E) in the subalpine belt. The lake has an elongated shape, 384 m long and 230 m wide, with a water surface of 6.5 ha. The maximum water depth is 14.2 m. The lake is fed by several upper lakes and its watershed is 3.08 km2 (Figs
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
The sediment core 3.65 m long was taken from a platform at the central part of the lake at water depth of 8 m with a square-rod piston sampler. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-295 cm brown gyttja, 295-325 cm grey silty clay, 325-365 cm grey silt (sand and gravel at 355-365 cm). The radiocarbon age of 8 samples (5 of terrestrial plant macrofossils, 2 of bulk sediment and 1 of chitin from an insect) was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) |
Material dated |
| Ua-14001 | 45 | 1340 ± 60 | 1310-1180 (1245) |
Pinus sp. fragments of needles |
| Ua-13403 | 150 | 3800 ± 135 | 4420-3990 (4205) |
Pinus peuce needle, plant tissue |
| Ua-12855 | 155 | 4270 ± 85 | 4990-4610 (4800) |
chitin part of insect (Otiorhyncus sp.) |
| Ua-12856 | 205 | 5780 ± 110 | 6720-6470 (6595) |
Pinus peuce shoot |
| Ua-13404 | 230 | 7385 ± 140 | 8320-8000 (8160) |
Pinus sp. needles, budscale of Pinus sp. |
| Ua-13405 | 285 | 9785 ± 360 | 11750-10350 (11050) |
Pinus sp. fragments of needles, Pinus peuce needle |
| Ua-61849 | 290 | 10331 ± 57 | 12410-11950 (12180) |
gyttja |
| Ua-61850 | 320 | 11030 ± 120 | 13100-12710 (12905) |
silty clay |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 5 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ RB-1 (343-317 cm, Artemisia-Pinus diploxylon-Poaceae-Chenopodiaceae) (~14100-12700 cal. yrs. BP)
High percentages from herb pollen are attributed to Artemisia 40-60%, Poaceae 20-25%, Chenopodiaceae up to 15%, and a variety of herbs such as Achillea-type, Galium-type, Rumex, Thalictrum, etc. Pollen of trees and shrubs is recorded from Pinus diploxylon-type 30% (level 330 cm), Betula, Quercus, Alnus, Corylus and Juniperus with minimal values. There are regular finds of Ephedra pollen (distachya-type and fragilis-type).
LPAZ RB-2 (317-293 cm, Artemisia-Poaceae-Pinus diploxylon-Betula) (12700-11600 cal. yrs. BP)
The steep decline of Artemisia pollen from 55% to 20% is accompanied by a rise of tree pollen, reaching 50%, due to Pinus diploxylon-type 20%, Quercus 15%, Betula 12%, Ulmus 5% and other deciduous taxa. Single pollen grains of Pinus peuce, Abies and Picea are also recorded. Herb pollen is dominated by Poaceae 20%, Artemisia 10-15% and Chenopodiaceae 5%.
LPAZ RB-3 (293-223 cm, Betula-Quercetum mixtum-Corylus-Poaceae) (11600-7800 cal. yrs. BP)
Tree pollen reaches 60-75%, attributed to Quercus 25%, Corylus 20%, Ulmus 15% and Betula 5-10%. Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type is 10-15% in the entire zone. Poaceae pollen drops from 17% to 5% and low values are recorded for Artemisia, Chenopodiaceae, Achillea-type and Galium-type. Slightly higher pollen frequencies are present for Rumex 3-5%, Apiaceae, Filipendula and Cirsium-type. Cyperaceae pollen reaches its maximum of 20% and Polypodiaceae spores are quite abundant with up to 10%.
LPAZ RB-4 (223-147 cm, Pinus diploxylon-Abies-Carpinus-Quercus) (7800-4100 cal. yrs. BP)
The pollen curve of Pinus diploxylon-type rises steeply to 60%, while Corylus, Quercus and Ulmus pollen frequencies decline to 2-5% each. Notable are the establishment of Abies pollen curve and the appearance of Carpinus betulus and Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya pollen with values around 5%. At several depths pollen of Fagus, Picea, Vitis and Hedera is recorded. Total herb pollen drops to 10%.
LPAZ RB-5 (147-102 cm, Pinus diploxylon-Fagus-Abies) (4100-2850 cal. yrs. BP)
This zone is characterized by the establishment of Fagus with 5%. High pollen values are recorded for Pinus diploxylon-type 55-75%, accompanied by Abies 5-7%, Betula 3% and Alnus. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 8-10%, Artemisia up to 7%, Rumex, Ranunculus-type, Plantago lanceolata, and the first finds of Secale and Cerealia-type.
LPAZ RB-6 (102-0 cm, Pinus-Picea-Fagus) (2850 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type dominates with 80-90% at the uppermost samples, while Pinus peuce slightly increases. A characteristic feature is the rise of Picea pollen curve up to 8%. Pollen of Juglans, Vitis and Humulus/Cannabis-type is quite common. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae, Artemisia, Achillea-type, Ranunculus-type, Caryophyllaceae, Plantago lanceolata, Secale, Cerealia-type, etc.
Lake Muratovo (site 14)
This lake belongs also to the group of Banderishki Lakes and is located at 2230 m (41°44’44.39”N, 23°24’21.85”E) on a small secondary cirque in the subalpine belt (Figs
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
Two sediment cores were obtained from a platform at the deepest part of the lake with a square-rod piston sampler. The first core PMa 1.1 m long was collected at a water depth of 3.15 m. The second core PMb 1.85 m long was collected at a water depth of 2.85 m. Both cores stopped at very hard clay material and stones. The sediment lithology is silty clay at the bottom, overlain by clay gyttja, and grey clay at the top. The radiocarbon age of 7 samples of bulk sediment was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Material dated |
| Core PMa | ||||
| Hela-557 | 23–25 | 1695±95 | 1830-1380 (1605) |
clay gyttja |
| Hela-558 | 63–65 | 2365±70 | 2710-2240 (2475) |
clay gyttja |
| Hela-559 | 103–105 | 3800±75 | 4420-3980 (4200) |
clay gyttja |
| Core PMb | ||||
| Hela-692 | 28–30 | 1215±35 | 1270-1050 (1160) |
clay gyttja |
| Hela-693 | 68–70 | 1885±35 | 1900-1720 (1810) |
clay gyttja |
| Hela-694 | 143–150 | 3485±40 | 3860-3640 (3750) |
clay gyttja |
| Hela-695 | 173–175 | 3915±45 | 4520-4160 (4340) |
clay gyttja |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 5 cm interval and two percentage pollen diagrams are constructed (Figs
Pollen accumulation rates (PAR; pollen grains cm-2 yr-1) for the main tree/shrub and herb taxa from Lake Muratovo (Core PMb) plotted against age (cal. yrs. BP).
LРАZ РМ-1 (Abies-Pinus diploxylon-Pinus peuce) (4600-2800 cal. yrs. BP)
Core PMa (110-67 cm) and Core PMb (185-112 cm)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type dominates with 50-68% (Fig.
РАZ РМ-2 (Picea-Pinus diploxylon-Pinus peuce) (2800-1750 cal. yrs. BP)
Core PMa (67-27 cm) and Core PMb (112-65 cm)
The pollen curve of Picea rises to 15-20% in both diagrams. A slight increase for Fagus is accompanied by a decline for Abies. The pollen curve of Pinus peuce keeps the same values 5-15% as in the preceding zone. Pollen grains of deciduous trees are rare. The dominant role of Роасеае, Artemisia and Cichoriaceae among the herb pollen taxa continues, together with a slight increase for Chenopodiaceae, Rumex, Polygonum aviculare-type, Scleranthus, Plantago lanceolata. Pollen of Cerealia-type and Triticum-type is also noted. The presence of Isoëtes spores in core PMa (Fig.
РАZ РМ-3 (Pinus diploxylon-Pinus peuce-Picea) (1750 cal. BP-till present)
Core PMa (27-0 cm) and Core PMb (65-0 cm).
The pollen curve of Pinus diploxylon-type rises to 60-70%. The presence of Pinus peuce is 15-18%. The participation of Picea decreases to 5-10%, while pollen of Fagus increases slightly to 5-6%. The dominant herb pollen taxa are Poaceae, Artemisia, Achillea-type, Cichoriaceae and Chenopodiaceae. The permanent presence of anthropophytes is characteristic like Cerealia-type, Triticum-type, Secale, Polygonum aviculare-type, Plantago lanceolata, Scleranthus and Rumex. The total arboreal PAR increases again to 5500 grains-1 cm-2 with a maximum of 6500 in the uppermost sample, contributed mainly by Pinus diploxylon-type. The PAR of Picea and Abies rise to 750 each. The total PAR of herbs reaches 1500 (Fig.
Peat bog Mozgovitsa (site 15)
The deep valley of the Mozgovitsa river is located in the central part of the Northwestern Pirin Mountain. It runs about 10 km in an east-west direction between 2800 and 1250 m passing through the alpine, subalpine and coniferous belts. The river takes its source from a cirque built up of five tiers with lakes in them. In the lowermost tier, below 1900 m, there are no lakes and peat bogs are formed in depressions, linked by streams of running water (Velchev, Kenderova, 1994). One of these peat bogs, with an area of c. 0.15 ha, located at 1800 m on the left river bank within a thin spruce forest, was selected for research (Figs
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
The core 1.5 m long was obtained with Dachnowsky hand-corer equipment. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-145 cm peat and 145-150 cm clay with sand. The radiocarbon age of 2 bulk sediment samples was determined and the results are shown on Table
Pollen and plant macrofossil analyses
Pollen analysis was performed at 5 cm interval and the core was also sampled at 10 cm intervals for plant macrofossil analysis. Two fractions of macrofossils after sieving through meshes of 0.4 mm and 0.16 mm were analyzed at magnification 10-40x. Charred wood (> 2 mm) and non-charred (>5 mm) particles were studied under reflected light and light microscopes. Their determination was based on sections in three anatomical plains (transversal, tangential and radial). The plant macrofossils are represented as absolute numbers of determinable items (needles, seeds, nutlets, etc.) per sample volume of 20 ml plotted as histograms on a composite diagram together with the percentage values of the most common pollen taxa. On the diagram five local assemblage zones (LAZ) are recognized (M-1 to M-5) (Figs
LAZ M-1 (150-100 cm, Betula-Quercetum mixtum-Pinus-Carpinus) (9500-7800 cal. yrs. BP)
The samples are dominated by Betula pollen up to 30%, Pinus diploxylon-type 20% and Quercus up to 30%. Pollen of coniferous (Pinus peuce, Juniperus, Picea, Abies) and deciduous tree taxa (Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya, Carpinus betulus, Tilia, Ulmus and Fagus) is continuously recorded. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 5-15%, Artemisia, Cichoriaceae, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus-type, Apiaceae, etc. Pollen of Cyperaceae reaches 20% and maximal values of 40-45% are recorded for Polypodiaceae spores.
The macrofossil samples are rich in nutlets of Betula. Seeds and needles from conifers (Pinus peuce, Pinus sylvestris/mugo) and in one sample needles of Picea abies are found. Except subfossil wood of Pinus sp. charcoal particles are also present. The constituents of the bog vegetation are represented by nutlets of Scirpus sylvaticus, fruits of Carex sp., Carex echinata and Carex acuta.
LAZ M-2 (100-80 cm, Betula-Pinus-Abies-Quercus) (7800-7300 cal. yrs. BP)
The pollen curves of Abies and Picea reach 10% and 5%, respectively. Pollen of deciduous trees such as Quercus, Carpinus, Corylus and Betula declines. The transition to the next zone is marked by the quick rise of the pollen curves of Pinus diploxylon-type and Pinus peuce. The variety of herb pollen taxa remains like in the previous zone.
The macrofossil record is dominated by nutlets of Betula which subsequently disappear. Subfossil wood of Salix and Alnus is also found. A substantial increase in the presence of fruits/nutlets of various Carex species, Scirpus sylvaticus and Juncus effusus-type is observed.
LAZ M-3 (80-50 cm, Pinus-Abies) (7300-4800 cal. yrs. BP)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type 50% and Pinus peuce 28% reaches maximal values while Abies and Picea are represented with 5-10% each. Pollen of various deciduous tree taxa is below 3%.
The macrofossil record comprises needles and seeds of Pinus peuce, Pinus sylvestris/mugo and Pinus sp. Nutlets of Carex sp., Carex acuta, Carex echinata and Juncus effusus-type are also determined.
LAZ M-4 (50-28 cm, Pinus-Abies-Picea) (4800-2800 cal. yrs. BP)
Apart from the steady presence of Pinus diploxylon-type and Pinus peuce pollen, a slight increase for pollen of Picea, Abies, Juniperus, Betula and Carpinus betulus is established. Pollen grains of Juglans are also determined. The total quantity of herb pollen starts to increase.
Wood and needles of Picea abies, as well as wood of Pinus sp., Salix, Juniperus, needles and seeds of Pinus peuce are found. Nutlets of various Carex species are present in the fossil record.
LAZ M-5 (28-0 см) (Picea-Pinus-Fagus) (2800 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
In the uppermost samples pollen of Picea with 13% and Fagus with 5% reaches maximal values. Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type is c. 40%, while Pinus peuce declines to 6-10%. Higher pollen frequencies are recorded for Poaceae 20-23%, for the anthropogenic pollen indicators such as Urtica, Rumex, Plantago lanceolata, Cerealia-type, and other herb taxa like Rosaceae, Filipendula and Artemisia. Pollen of Cyperaceae reaches 25%.
The macrofossil record is dominated by needles and wood of Picea abies, scattered finds of wood of Pinus sp., Juniperus and Salix. Nutlets and fruits of Carex echinata, Carex canescens and Carex acuta are determined.
Vegetation history in the Northern Pirin Mountain
Lateglacial
The core from Lake Ribno Banderishko is the first investigated continuous postglacial sequence from the Pirin Mountain. It spans most of the Lateglacial and the entire Holocene, thus providing an opportunity to reconstruct high altitudinal vegetation and climate changes on the northern part of the mountain.
The pollen stratigraphy of the lateglacial section of the core reveals the changes for the time period 14000-11600 cal. yrs. BP (pollen zones RB-1 and RB-2; Fig.
The next time interval 12750-11600 cal. yrs. BP (pollen zone RB-2) can be chronologically correlated with the last climatic reversal, the Younger Dryas stadial. The “mountain-steppe” herb vegetation continued to dominate until c. 12200 cal. yrs. BP and after that it was partly replaced for a short period of time by stands of Pinus, Betula and Juniperus. A signal for climate improvement has resulted in the spread of mixed oak forests from their refuges at low altitudes and the appearance of moisture-demanding trees and climbers such as Abies, Picea, Fagus and Vitis. Quite probably, populations of fir, spruce and beech were present during the Lateglacial in refuges on the Pirin Mountain. After this short-term climate improvement, typical lateglacial conditions returned in the highest parts of the mountain and the tree stands probably moved down along the mountain slopes.
Other studies of lateglacial sites from the Northern Pirin Mountain complement the picture of vegetation and climate changes (Fig.
The core of Lake Kremensko-5 which is situated at 2124 m (Fig.
Later studies in the Northern Pirin Mountain attempted to provide a chronological framework for the Lateglacial based on new pollen and plant macrofossil sequences recovered from Lake Kremensko-5 and Lake Bezbog located at 2250 m (Fig.
All the lateglacial pollen sequences analysed so far indicated that the vegetation type characteristic of localities at mid-high altitudes could be defined as “montane steppe-forest”. Most probably, at lower elevations the ecological conditions favored the survival in refuges of populations of various thermophilous trees and shrubs with their subsequent vertical immigration in the Holocene. The available evidence supports the idea that the Balkans served as one of the main refugial areas in Southern Europe (Huntley, Birks, 1983; Bennett et al., 1991; Lang, 1994; Tzedakis, 2004, etc.).
Holocene
The onset of the Holocene after 11600 cal. yrs. BP is manifested by a rise in the total tree pollen, namely contributed by deciduous trees (pollen zone RB-3, Fig.
The palynological record from Lake Ribno Banderishko implies that mixed oak forests with abundant Ulmus, less Tilia, and some Acer and Fraxinus excelsior, have reached their maximal distribution in the lower parts of the mountain c. 10000-9000 cal. yrs. BP. Later on, Corylus expanded and became widespread c. 8500-8000 cal. yrs. BP. The presence of climbers such as Vitis and Hedera in the deciduous forests indicates an increase of humidity and a rise in the mean annual temperature.
Around 9500 cal. yrs. BP the paleoecological evidence, comprising pollen and plant macrofossils from the Peat bog Mozgovitsa, reveals that the primary role in the initial phase of afforestation was taken by Betula that has occupied large areas, together with groups of pines (Pinus sylvestris, Pinus peuce, Pinus mugo), Juniperus, Alnus and Salix (zone M-1, Fig.
The Early Holocene pollen assemblages from Peat bog Mozgovitsa contain also minor, but steady quantities of pollen of mesophilous trees such as Abies, Fagus and Picea. The needles of Picea abies dated to 9000 cal. yrs. BP are the oldest ones, established so far, from the mountains in Bulgaria (zone M-1, Fig.
The vegetation development after 7800 cal. yrs. BP was characterized by important changes in forest composition (pollen zone RB-4, Fig.
The results of plant macrofossil analyses from other sites on the Northern Pirin Mountain for the time after 7500 cal. yrs. BP show the appearance of needles of Pinus peuce, bud-scales and microsporophylls of Pinus sp. in the surroundings of Lake Popovo Ezero-6 located at 2185 m (Fig.
The palynological data from Lake Muratovo c. 4600 cal. yrs. BP present a wide distribution of coniferous forests, not far away from the lake, composed of Pinus peuce, Pinus sylvestris, Abies alba, and quite probably Pinus heldreichii (Figs
It is important to point out that the time interval 4300-3700 cal. yrs. BP is related to the final phase of the wider distribution of Abies alba in the coniferous forests that existed since 7900 cal. yrs. BP. Around 3000/2800 cal. yrs. BP a decrease in the participation of Abies alba is observed due to the increasing occurrence of Picea abies. Meanwhile, the dense coniferous forests acted as a filter for the airborne upslope transport of deciduous tree pollen of Quercus, Ulmus, Tilia, Carpinus and Corylus from lower altitudes.
The spread of Fagus on the Northern Pirin Mountain has started at 4400 cal. yrs. BP (pollen zone RB-5, Fig.
In the course of several millennia Pinus sylvestris, Pinus peuce, and partly Abies alba were the main constituents of the coniferous belt in the Mozgovitsa river valley. Spruce was still less abundant in these forests, but the slow increase in its pollen frequencies signalled that it has started to gain importance after c. 4600 cal. yrs. BP (pollen zone RB-5, Fig.
Later on, after 2800 cal. yrs. BP, Picea abies invaded new areas and shaped the timber-line at many places, solely or with Pinus sylvestris and Pinus peuce. As a main reason for this event a change of climate with lower temperatures and higher precipitation is considered likely in the temperate regions, synchronous with an abrupt increase in radiocarbon in the atmosphere c. 850 cal. BC as a result of increased solar activity (van Geel et al., 1998).
The reasons for this late establishment and subsequent expansion of spruce are still debatable and are most probably of complex character. The rather late Holocene arrival of spruce in the high central montane parts of the Balkan peninsula, Rila and Pirin mountains included, has led to the idea that the closest refugial areas for Picea abies from where it has migrated at a slow rate to the south and southeast were located in the northernmost parts of the Balkan peninsula - Southeast Alps, Dinaric Mountains and Carpathian Mountains (Lang 1994; Farcas et al. 1999; Björkman et al. 2003; Latalowa, van der Knaap, 2006). The hypothesis that local refugia with residual populations of spruce could have also existed in isolated interior montane areas of the peninsula with sufficient moisture, also deserves attention (Ravazzi, 2002; Tonkov, 2003).
It should be pointed out that competition with other trees, notably Abies, was the main factor accounting for reduced migration rates of Picea after the mid-Atlantic in forest communities in the French Alps (Beaulieu et al., 1994). Such a tendency is also recorded in the pollen diagrams from Lake Muratovo. The estimated age for when spruce became one of the dominant trees in the coniferous belt is in good agreement with other palynological studies from the Northern Pirin Mountain (Bozilova, 1975, 1986; Stefanova, Oeggl, 1993; Stefanova, Bozilova, 1995; Stefanova et al., 2006).
In the profile from Peat bog Mozgovitsa the rise of Picea pollen curve is preceded by an increase of Artemisia, Poaceae and other herbs. A characteristic feature is the abundance of macrofossils from Picea abies such as needles and charred wood, and occasional finds of seeds of Pinus sp., needles and seeds of Pinus peuce, and subfossil wood of Pinus sp., Juniperus, Salix and charred wood of Pinus. Seeds and nutlets of Teucrium montanum, Ranunculus nemorosus point to the existence of mountain meadows, and those of Potentilla palustris, Carex and Eriophorum species originated from the local vegetation of the peat bog (zones M-4 and M-5, Fig.
Likewise, after c. 1750 cal. yrs. BP the vegetation development bears the features of an increasing anthropogenic activity, although traces of human impact may have been detected even earlier, during the Late Bronze Age and Hellenistic periods (pollen zones PM-2 and PM-3, Figs
At many places in most recent times after 900 cal. yrs. BP Pinus peuce and Picea abies shaped the upper timber-line, while Pinus mugo spread in the subalpine zone (pollen zone RB-6, Fig.
The patterns of the postglacial vegetation dynamics in the Northern Pirin Mountain appear quite similar to those established for the Rila Mountain (Figs
Southern Pirin Mountain – Study sites
Peat bog Mutorog (site 16)
The peat bog is located at 1700 m in northeast direction from peak Mutorog in the depths of a forest of Picea abies with an admixture of Pinus sylvestris, Abies alba and Pinus peuce. The bog vegetation is composed of Carex leporina, Carex flava, Carex stellulata, Nardus stricta, Deschampsia caespitosa, Potentilla palustris, Geum coccineum, Galium palustre, Saxifraga rotundifolia, etc. (Panovska et al., 1995).
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
The core 1.1 m long was collected with Dachnowsky hand-corer equipment. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-30 сm peat, 30-35 сm sand, 35-45 сm peat, 45-55 сm peat with sand, 55-65 сm peat, 65-80 сm peat with sand, 80-90 сm peat and 90-110 сm peaty gyttja. The radiocarbon age of one bulk sediment sample was determined and the result is shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Cal. BC/AD (mid-point) |
Material dated |
| Mutorog | |||||
| KL-3416 | 90-110 | 3240±120 | 3830-3170 (3500) |
1880-1220 (1550) BC |
peaty gyttja |
| Popovi Livadi | |||||
| Hv-17896 | 80-100 | 1400±90 | 1530-1090 (1310) |
420-860 (640) AD |
peat |
| Hv-17895 | 250-270 | 2610±70 | 2870-2470 (2670) |
920-520 (720) BC |
peaty gyttja |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 10 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ MT-1 (110-63см, Fagus-Corylus-Pinus diploxylon)
Tree pollen prevails with 45-70%, attributed to Fagus 27-37%, Corylus 20-10%, Tilia 10% аnd Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya 15%. Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type is present with 5-17%, Juniperus and Pinus peuce each with 2-4%. The participation of Picea and Abies is insignificant. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 22-10%, Cichoriaceae, Achillea-type, Ranunculaceae, Scleranthus and Rumex each with 3-7%. Spores of Polypodiaceae 35-45% are also found.
LPAZ MT-2 (63-0см, Pinus diploxylon-Quercus-NAP)
The dominant pollen type is Pinus diploxylon with 50-60%. The presence of Quercus, Fagus, Pinus peuce, Alnus, Corylus, Abies, Juniperus pollen is each with 3-7%. In the uppermost samples Picea reaches 13% and Juniperus 10%. The pollen curve of Poaceae displays a maximum of 30% and than declines to 3-5%. The variety of herb pollen taxa is considerable. The presence of Achillea-type, Cichoriaceae, Rumex, Plantago lanceolata, Scleranthus, Hordeum-type, Ranunculaceae and Cyperaceae pollen is worth mentioning.
Peat bog Popovi Livadi (site 17)
This peat bog is located at 1430 m (41°32‘55.24“N, 23°38‘24.34“E) in a large depression. It borders to the south a forest of Pinus sylvestris with an admixture of Picea abies and Abies alba. The understory is composed of Juniperus communis, Juniperus sibirica, Vaccinium myrtillus. On the steep northern slopes an inverse distribution of beech over the coniferous communities is observed. The bog vegetation is composed of Sphagnum sp., Carex rostrata, Carex hirta, Carex canescens, Carex acuta, Juncus compressus, Juncus alpigenus, Eriophorum vaginatum, Eriophorum latifolium, Luzula nigricans, Deschampsia flexuosa, Deschampsia caespitosa, Geum coccineum, Cardamine palustris, Veronica scutellata, Menyanthes trifoliata, Caltha palustris, Potentilla palustris, etc. (Panovska et al., 1995).
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
The core 2.9 m long was collected with Dachnowsky hand-corer equipment. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-30 сm slightly decomposed Sphagnum peat, 30-100 сm peat, 100-110 сm peaty gyttja, 110-230 сm peat, 230-270 сm peaty gyttja, 270-290 сm peat with sand. The radiocarbon age of 2 bulk sediment samples was determined and the results are shown on Table
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 10 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ PL-1 (290-235 сm, Fagus-Abies-Pinus diploxylon) (~3000-2560 cal. yrs. BP)
Tree pollen dominates with 60-80%, contributed by Pinus diploxylon-type 20-30%, Abies up to 20%, Fagus up to 20%, Quercus 5-18%. The presence of Pinus peuce, Picea, Juniperus, Salix and Ulmus is insignificant. The herb pollen taxa are represented mainly by Poaceae 10-20%, Cichoriaceae, Achillea-type, Rumex and Ranunculaceae each with 2-4%. Local maxima are recorded for spores of Polypodiaceae 60-80% and Equisetum 40%.
LPAZ PL-2 (235-95 сm, Fagus-Quercus-NAP-Juniperus) (2560-1300 cal. yrs. ВР)
This zone is well defined by the ratio АР/NAP=40/60%. Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type is below 10%, Juniperus 3-8%, Betula 3-7%, Quercus 10-15% and Fagus 5-7%. The variety of herb pollen taxa is high represented by Poaceae up to 37%, Scleranthus 19%, Hordeum-type 10-15%, Rumex 12%, Artemisia, Brassicaceae, Ranunculaceae, Plantago lanceolata, etc.
LPAZ PL-3 (95-0 см, Pinus diploxylon-Fagus) (1300 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
Tree pollen prevails again with 60-90%, attributed to Pinus diploxylon-type 60-80%. A local maximum is registered for Fagus 10-12%, while Picea and Abies are present each with 1-3%. The pollen curve of Quercus declines to 2-4%. Among the herb pollen taxa Poaceae participates with 5-10%. In several samples local maxima are established for Scleranthus 10%, Plantago lanceolata 35%, Hordeum-type 5%, Cyperaceae 80% and spores of Sphagnum 220%.
Plant macrofossil analysis
The core was also sampled at 10 cm interval for determination of plant macrofossils. The results are presented on a macrofossil diagram in absolute numbers for flowers, fruits and needles, while the occurrence of wood is indicated by dots (Fig.
LMAZ MPL-1 (290-245 сm)
Macrofossils from tree taxa are quite common such as Abies alba (wood, neeedls), Carpinus betulus and Corylus (wood), Carpinus orientalis (fragments of leaves), Fagus (wood, flowers). All these finds were extracted from the sample radiocarbon dated at 2610±70 C14 yrs. BP (2760 cal. yrs. BP). Fruits from Potentilla palustris, Potentilla sp., Ranunculus, Carex sp. and Scirpus sylvaticus are found.
LMAZ MPL-2 (245-135 сm)
Macrofossils from tree taxa are absent. In the lower part of the zone fruits of Carex sp. are abundant. Fruits from Potentilla sp., Menyanthes trifoliata, Chenopodium album are also determined.
LMAZ MPL-3 (135-0 сm)
Charred wood is found in almost all samples and a seed from Pinus sylvestris. Fruits from Carex sp., Menyanthes trifoliata, Potentilla sp. and Potentilla palustris are determined.
Vegetation history in the Southern Pirin Mountain
The pollen diagrams and the plant macroremains reflect the changes in the vegetation cover during the last 3500 years. The paleobotanical data from the two peat bogs and the periods of increased anthropogenic activities correlate very well supported by the radiocarbon dates.
In the area of Peat bog Mutorog the spread of almost pure Fagus communities started at 3500 cal. yrs. BP and deciduous trees such as Tilia, Corylus and Ulmus retreated at lower altitudes. The participation of Pinus (most probably Pinus sylvestris) was negligible, as was that of Abies, while on more open terrains were found groups of Betula.
In the vicinity of Peat bog Popovi Livadi mixed Abies-Fagus forests were present, proved by the find of macroremains (needles, wood and flowers). Corylus and Carpinus orientalis were also growing as confirmed by the determination of fossil wood. The pollen grains from Ephedra fragilis-type suggest long-distant air transport but do not rule out the possibility that Ephedra was occurring in the eastern parts of the Southern Pirin Mountain by that time (pollen zone PL-2, Fig.
There is strong evidence of anthropogenic interference in the Popovi Livadi area between 2100 and 1300 cal. yrs. BP. The flat land around the peatbog has proven to be suitable for practicing mountain farming with cultivation of Hordeum and Secale, as well as for the development of animal husbandry. The participation of pollen indicators for grazing, ruderal communities and forest paths such as Scleranthus, Rumex, Plantago lanceolata, Juniperus, some Asteraceae species exceeds significantly the amount of pollen from cultivated cereals for a long period. This proves that the area has been extremely suitable for grazing since early historical times.
It was difficult for the local population to exploit the beech forests on the steep slopes above 1500-1000 m and this was probably one of the reasons for the recent inverse distribution of fragments of beech forests over the coniferous forests in this part of the mountain.
A significant change in the composition of the forest vegetation is noted after 1300 cal. yrs. BP (VIII-th cent. AD) when the anthropogenic influence in the area weakened and a large part of the land used by humans was abandoned. This has led to the enlargement of forests of Pinus sylvestris and some restoration of Fagus communities.
The last tree species that permanently settled in the area after 700 cal. yrs. BP (XIII-th cent. AD) in many places was Picea abies. The subsequent presence of spruce in this part of the mountain in the zone between 1400 and 1700 m like in the Northern Pirin Mountain and in the Rila Mountain can be associated with changes in the climatic conditions during the Little Ice Age.
4. Konyavska Mountain
Physico-geographical characteristics and modern vegetation
Konyavska Mountain (peak Viden, 1487 m) is located in the north of Southwestern Bulgaria, in an area representing a complex mosaic of mountains and small valleys with various directions of extension, with the prevailing being northwest-southeast (Fig.
The deeply cut valleys of the Uglyarska, Blateshnitsa, Konyavska and Klisurska rivers divide the mountain orographically into four parts: Viden (1487 m), Risha (1443 m), Kolosh (1314 m) and Korilovski (991 m). The total area of the mountain is 237 km2 with an average altitude of 929 m. The age of the lithological base ranges from the Paleozoic metamorphic rocks to the Neogene sedimentary complexes. Several lithological formations have had a decisive influence on the modern morphological appearance, namely, the Triassic carbonate complex, the Late Jurassic complex, the Late Eocene conglomerate-breccia and conglomerates (Bonchev et al., 1960).
During the Tertiary some of the deep valleys became lake basins which were gradually filled with deposits from the surrounding mountains. As a central negative form within the mountain stands the Tschokljovo structural depression which is now occupied by a marshy peatland. It covers an area of 1.8 km2 at an average altitude of 870 m. In general, the main relief of the Konyavska Mountain was formed at the beginning of the Quaternary (Konstantinov, 1979).
Konyavska Mountain falls on the border between the temperate continental climate and the transitional continental climate (Dimitrov, 1974). The average maximal temperature for the warmest month is 28°C and for the coldest is -6°C. The average annual precipitation is between 500 and 750 mm, with a minimum in February and a maximum in June (Stanev et al., 1991).
The soils are mainly cinnamomic-forest (chromic Cambisols) and humus-carbonate rich (rendzic Leptosols) (Ninov, 1997). The soil erosion is highly developed, where the main rocks are discovered in places there are screes, tunnels and collapses.
According to the last geobotanical zoning, Konyavska Mountain is included as a separate region in the Sofia District of the Illyrian (Balkan) Province (Bondev, 2002). The modified mediterranean climate along the Struma river gorge and the interaction between different climatic influences have left their mark on the nature, composition and distribution of the vegetation. The general characteristics of the vegetation cover of the mountain and the adjacent calcareous areas are presented in several publications and floristic reports (Stojanov, 1935, 1941; Bondev, 1991, etc.).
On the western and southwestern slopes of the Risha part where along the Struma gorge penetrates the mediterranean influence the basic plant communities are those of Quercus cerris, Quercus pubescens and Carpinus orientalis. In their composition are found also some transitional-mediterranean elements as Jasminum fruticans, Juniperus oxycedrus, Paliurus spina christii, Coronilla emerus, etc. Shrub and herb xerothermic formations are distributed on limestone deforested areas. In the rest of the Risha and Korilovski parts the communities of Quercus cerris are most widespread, including Quercus pubescens, Quercus dalechampii, Carpinus betulus, Acer platanoides, Acer pseudoplatanus, Corylus avellana, Ostrya carpinifolia. The mixed oak forests occupy large areas along the northern and derived slopes of the Kolosh and Viden parts. The communities of Fagus sylvatica are characteristic above 1000-1200 m. The natural vegetation of the mountain is strongly disturbed by the anthropogenic impact which has resulted in large scale deforestation, the replacement of the natural plant communities by secondary in origin. Partial measures have been taken to afforest some areas with Scots pine and black pine.
The vegetation of Tschokljovo marsh in the middle of the Konyavska Mountain is of particular interest. A detailed description of the higher aquatic vegetation, its floristic composition, formations and associations prior to the beginning of the drainage activities and the extraction of peat during the middle of the past century, is presented in several publications (Jordanov, 1929, 1931, 1947). The vegetation of the marsh resembled a specific combination of the lowland fens, swampy shrubs and reed swamps. From the first vegetation type were distributed Heleocharis pauciflora, Juncus articulatus, Triglochin palustre, Menyanthes trifoliata, Potentilla palustris, etc. Characteristic elements for the vegetation of the swampy shrubs were Salix pentandra, Salix cinerea, Salix rosmarinifolia along with Thelyptheris palustris, Sparganium erectum, Lathyrus palustris, Peucedanum palustre, Carex acuta, Calamagrostis epigeios, Thalictrum flavum, etc. The reed-swamp vegetation was distributed in the central and partly in the northern and southern parts of the marsh represented by Typha latifolia, Phragmites australis, Alisma plantago-aquatica, Iris pseudacorus, Mentha aquatica, etc.
The extensive exploitation of the peat deposits has resulted in the destruction of the local vegetation from which only separate fragments had remained. The marsh was flooded again in 1980 with the drainage channels removed and the extraction of peat has stopped. It was declared a protected area in 1992 on a territory of 320 ha in order to protect the habitats of rare and endangered birds and the peatland itself (Fig.
A view of Tschokljovo marsh (Photo D. Kozuharov).
Study site
Tschokljovo marsh (site 18)
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
Two cores were collected with Dachnowsky hand-corer equipment from undisturbed peat layers in the southwestern part of the marsh. The first core is 4.45 m long and the lithology of the sediments is: 0-90 cm marl with peat, 90-300 cm peat with plant remains, 300-350 cm peaty gyttja, 350-400 cm clay with gyttja, 400-405 cm peat and 405-445 cm clay. The second core is 2.4 m long and the sediment is peat (Tonkov, 1988). The radiocarbon age of 9 samples of bulk sediment was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Material dated |
| Core 1 | ||||
| Lu-2169 | 90-105 | 1250±50 | 1290-1060 (1175) |
peat |
| Lu-1991 | 230-240 | 2380±50 | 2700-2320 (2510) |
peat |
| Lu-1990A | 274-279 | 3130±50 | 3450-3210 (3330) |
peat |
| Lu-2168 | 353-358 | 4760±80 | 5650-5310 (5480) |
clay with gyttja |
| Lu-1989 | 400-405 | 6300±65 | 7420-7020 (7220) |
peat |
| Lu-2167 | 437-442 | 8000±110 | 9250-8580 (8915) |
clay |
| Core 2 | ||||
| LuS-1994A | 72-80 | 1860±50 | 1930-1630 (1780) |
peat |
| LuS-1993 | 140-144 | 2380±50 | 2700-2320 (2510) |
peat |
| LuS-1992 | 149-152 | 2430±50 | 2710–2350 (2530) |
peat |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was conducted at 5-10 cm interval and two percentage pollen diagrams are constructed (Figs
Comparison of the palynostratigraphy and chronology for sites located west of the Struma river.
Core-1
LPAZ TM-1 (445-400 cm, Quercus-Corylus-Pinus diploxylon-Abies) (~9000-6200 cal. yrs. BP)
High pollen values are established for Corylus 28% and Quercus 26%. At the transition to the next zone Pinus diploxylon-type and Abies reach 43% and 28%, respectively. Pollen of Tilia 8%, Ulmus 4% and Carpinus betulus is also found. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 6-8%, Ranunculaceae 2-3%, Rosacae, Achillea-type. The local component includes pollen of Typha latifolia 45% and Nuphar, spores of Polypodiaceae 150% and Thelypteris palustris.
LPAZ TM-2 (400-300 cm, Abies-Pinus diploxylon) (6200-3600 cal. yrs. BP)
Pollen of Abies reaches maximal values of 52-54%, accompanied by Pinus diploxylon-type 20-50%, Quercus 15%, Tilia, Corylus, Betula and Carpinus betulus. Pollen of Poaceae attains a peak of 50% and the variety of herb pollen taxa is considerable. The pollen curve of Cyperaceae is present up to 40%.
LPAZ TM-3 (300-235 cm, Pinus diploxylon-Fagus-Abies) (3600-2400 cal. yrs. BP)
The pollen curve of Fagus appears and rises to 26%. Other deciduous tree taxa such as Quercus 22%, Carpinus betulus 8%, Corylus 5%, Alnus are also present. Pollen of Abies declines to 19% while Pinus diploxylon-type rises to 50%. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 25-8%, Ranunculaceae, Brassicaceae, Apiaceae, etc. Spores of Polypodiaceae reach 28%, together with a sharp increase for spores of Thelypteris palustris with 30% at the transition to the next zone. Hydrophytes and hygrophytes such as Nuphar, Cyperaceae and Typha latifolia are also present.
LPAZ TM-4 (235-145 cm, Pinus diploxylon-Abies-Quercus) (2400-1600 cal. yrs. BP)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type reaches 70-80%. Pollen of Abies fluctuates between 13% and 23%, while Quercus and Fagus are present with 14% and 4%, respectively. Pollen of Cerealia-type and Polygonum aviculare-type is also determined.
LPAZ TM-5 (145-70 cm, Quercus-Fagus-Pinus diploxylon) (1600-1000 cal. yrs. BP)
The pollen curves of Quercus and Fagus rise to 27% and 17%, respectively. Pollen of Abies declines to 3-4%, while Pinus diploxylon-type exceeds 80%. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 10-15%, Rumex 4%, Ranunculus-type 3%, Cichoriaceae, Cerealia-type, etc. Spores of Polypodiaceae and pollen of Cyperaceae are also recorded.
Core-2
LPAZ TM-3 (240-170 cm, Pinus diploxylon-Fagus-Abies) (3600-2400 cal. yrs. BP)
Tree pollen dominates represented by Pinus diploxylon-type 24-60%, Abies 6-18%, Fagus 13%, Quercus 10%, Carpinus betulus, Corylus. The variety of herb pollen taxa is high, represented by Poaceae, Ranunculus-type, Apiaceae, Filipendula, Rumex, etc. The pollen curves of Cyperaceae and Typha latifolia rise to 33% and 9%, respectively, accompanied by spores of Polypodiaceae up to 50% and spores of Thelypteris palustris 37%.
LPAZ TM-4 (170-80 cm, Pinus diploxylon-Abies-Quercus) (2400-1600 cal. yrs. BP)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type displays a maximum of 60% and than declines to 20%. Pollen of Abies reaches 10-20%, Quercus 20-25%, Ulmus 7% and Salix 4%. A great number of herb pollen taxa are determined, among them Poaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Ranunculaceae, Artemisia, Filipendula, etc. High values for Polypodiaceae spores 32% and pollen of Cyperaceae up to 40% are characteristic, together with pollen from hygrophytes and hydrophytes.
LPAZ TM-5 (80-0 cm, Quercus-Fagus-Pinus diploxylon) (1600 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
The pollen curves of Quercus 30% and Fagus 11% increase, together with Corylus 5%, Carpinus, Salix, Alnus, etc. Pollen of Poaceae 18%, Plantago lanceolata 5%, Cerealia-type, Polygonum aviculare-type, Secale and Triticum-type is registered. The local component is represented by Typha latifolia 12%, Cyperaceae 5-6%, spores of Polypodiaceae and Cystopteris, etc.
Plant macrofossil analysis
The material for analysis was taken from Core-1 at 10 cm interval parallel to the samples for pollen analysis. Altogether 40 samples, each of 20 cm3, were processed following a standard procedure with subsequent sieving through meshes with 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 mm holes. The macrofossil diagram is constructed on the basis of the absolute number of fruits and seeds found, while the presence of other plant remains (fragments of stems and roots, sporangia, pieces of wood) is indicated with dots (Fig.
LMAZ mTM-1 (445-295 cm) (~9000-3800 cal. yrs. BP)
Plant macrofossils are almost absent. Single fragments of roots and epidermis are found. Pieces of Abies and Betula wood are determined at 415 cm and 330 cm, respectively.
LMAZ mTM-2 (295-260 cm) (3800-3000 cal. yrs. BP)
Fruits of Batrachium gr. are determined and single finds of Potamogeton sp., Carex rostrata, Polygonum sp., fragments of roots and epidermis as well.
LMAZ mTM-3 (260-145 cm) (3000-1700 cal. yrs. BP)
This zone is the richest in plant macrofosssils. Fruits of various Carex and Scirpus species dominate which is an indication of marshy places in the periphery of the basin. Fruits and seeds from various herb species such as Potentilla palustris, Menyanthes trifoliata, Lycopus, etc. are determined. The share of Sphagnum and Bryopsida moss remains, and Equisetum stems increases.
LMAZ mTM-4 (145-50 cm) (1700 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
Single finds of fruits from Carex rostrata, Carex gr., Polygonum sp. and Typha sp. are recorded, together with seeds from Symphytum sp., Euphorbia sp. and Chenopodium sp. In the uppermost 50 cm plant macrofossils are absent.
Vegetation history in the Konyavska Mountain
The palynological and plant macrofossil data provide possibility for the reconstruction of the vegetation cover during the last 9000 years in one of the lower calcareous mountains in Southwestern Bulgaria. The oldest pollen spectra (pollen zone TM-1, Fig.
This forest composition has existed for nearly 1800-2000 years when the conifers gradually started to enlarge their areas replacing in many places the deciduous forests. The main reason for this change was probably an increase in air and soil humidity and c. 6400 cal. yrs. BP Abies started to gain a dominant role. Single pollen grains of Fagus were found in the sediments but beech has finally established in this area 2000 years later. The scarce data about the herb vegetation indicates that it was composed mainly of Poaceae, Ranunculaceae, Rosaceae, Artemisia species.
The next stage in the vegetation development is characterized by the dominance of Abies forests for a period of 3000 years. Fir has formed monodominant communities and has reached downslope near to the shores of the marsh. The participation of Pinus, bearing in mind its over-representation in the pollen rain, was restricted, and in some areas mixed Abies-Pinus communities existed. The oak forests retained their distribution and Tilia was abundant in them. An interesting feature is the continuous presence of Juglans pollen which presumes most likely its native distribution in this area, rather than cultivation by the local people (pollen zone TM-2, Fig.
The subsequent change in the vegetation cover is associated with the spread of Fagus and this process was initiated after 3500 cal. yrs. BP. Beech has invaded the coniferous belt and the first maximum in its distribution is recorded c. 3000 cal. yrs. BP. A characteristic feature for this period is also the most significant presence of Carpinus betulus, Carpinus orientalis, Ostrya carpinifolia, and a slight enlargement of Corylus on more sunny open places. The herb communities were enriched with species from Poaceae, Rosaceae, Fabaceae, Cichoriaceae, Achillea, etc. Most of them participated also in the marshy vegetation and were distributed in the peripheral drier parts.
The information about the development of the vegetation in the last 2500 years could be traced in more details from both pollen diagrams (pollen zones TM-4 and TM-5, Figs
The final enlargement of the beech and oak forests, and partly of hornbeam and hazel, is recorded after c. 1700 cal. yrs. BP. The composition of the uppermost pollen assemblages reflects an intensive deforestation which has affected both the deciduous and coniferous forests. Since that time the present-day appearance of the vegetation cover in the Konyavska Mountain was shaped being influenced to a considerable extent by the anthropogenic activities.
The results from pollen analysis, determination of plant macrofossils and sediment description provide plentiful information about the hydrological regime of Tschokljovo marsh and the origin and transformations of the local vegetation.
In between 9000 and 5500 cal. yrs. BP the sediment type reflects the existence of a lake with a relatively high water level. The material deposited was grey clay with traces of lake gyttja. The most common hygrophyte was Typha latifolia which has overgrown the shores of the lake and c. 7000 cal. yrs. BP the first spores of Thelypteris palustris were established, one of the characteristic species of the flora for this water basin.
The sedimentation of peaty gyttja overlain by sedge peat has started since 5500 cal. yrs. BP which could serve as an indication for a lowering of the water level and the establishment of optimal conditions for the spread of water and marshy plants. This situation is confirmed by the nearly continuous pollen curve of Cyperaceae and the find of Nymphaea, Nuphar, Typha latifolia and Alisma pollen. Fruits from typical hydrophytes such as Batrachium gr. and Potamogeton sp. prevailed.
The lowland peat bog vegetation type was widely distributed between 2800 and 1700 cal. yrs. BP represented by Carex, Filipendula and Potentilla species. A typical feature was the local maximum of Thelypteris palustris c. 2400 cal. yrs. BP when this species has spread in the reed communities (pollen zone TM-4, Fig.
The sediments which accumulated after 1700 cal. yrs. BP appear heterogeneous in composition, changing from almost pure Phragmites undecomposed peat to fen-carr peat mixed with mineral particles. Sedge communities composed of various Carex, Scirpus, Juncus and Heleocharis species were widely distributed. Fruits of Carex gr., Carex rostrata and Typha sp. are sporadically found, and also seeds/fruits from plants with wider ecological requirements such as Polygonum sp., Symphytum sp., Chenopodium sp., etc. The presence of Alisma, Lythrum, Potamogeton pollen, spores from Sphagnum and Polypodiaceae indicate that 1000 years ago the main vegetation types were already present in the Tschokljovo marsh.
5. Osogovo Mountain
Physico-geographical characteristics and modern vegetation
Osogovo Mountain (peak Ruen, 2251 m) is the highest border massif of the Osogovo-Belasitsa mountain range, which is situated in Southwestern Bulgaria and in the Republic of Northern Macedonia (Fig.
The present day climate below 1000 m is moderate continental and above this altitude it changes to typically montane. The mean annual precipitation is 700-900 mm with two precipitation maxima in May and November, and a precipitation minimum in August-September. The average annual duration of the stable snow cover is 135 days (Velev, 2002).
The basic soils are cinnamomic-forest (chromic Cambisols), above them brown-forest (Cambisols), and the ridge is occupied by montane-meadow (Umbrisols) (Ninov, 1997).
According to the last geobotanical zoning, Osogovo Mountain is included as a separate region in the Western Bulgarian Border Mountain District of the Illyrian (Balkan) Province (Bondev, 2002). The mountain is usually viewed together with the other western border mountains (Vlahina, Maleshevska and Ograzhden) but its vegetation differs in many aspects because of the northern location and higher altitude. Comprehensive information on the modern vegetation of Osogovo Mountain can be found in the Vegetation Map of Bulgaria (Bondev, 1991) and in the review of Velchev, Tonkov (1986). Following these basic literature sources the vegetation comprises several vertical belts.
The oak forest belt up to 1000 m on the southeastern slopes is dominated by Quercus pubescens, Quercus cerris and Quercus dalechampii with some Carpinus orientalis, Ostrya carpinifolia and Juniperus oxycedrus. Plant communities of Pinus nigra and Fagus sylvatica are also found. The beech belt (1000-1900 m) is the most well-developed vegetation belt, composed mainly of monodominant communities of Fagus sylvatica. At some areas in the beech belt patches of Abies alba and Pinus nigra are present. Beech forms the upper timber-line between 1500 and 1900 m. Today a compact coniferous vegetation belt does not exist. Stands or isolated trees of Pinus sylvestris grow close, or just above, the timber-line. Remnants of mixed coniferous communities composed of Picea abies and Abies alba, highly restricted in distribution, are preserved in the northern part of the mountain between 1100 and 1600 m. The treeless areas in the subalpine belt, above the beech forests, are occupied by plant communities of Juniperus sibirica, Vaccinium myrtillus, Bruckenthalia spiculifolia, Chamaecytisus absinthioides, Nardus stricta, etc. In all vegetation zones, the oak and beech forest belts in particular, the negative consequences of the long-lasting human impact, including deforestation with subsequent erosion and ore-mining activities, are easily visible (Tonkov, 2003; Lazarova et al., 2015).
Study sites
In the treeless, mostly flat central part of the mountain, between 1600 and 1800 m just above the beech forests, small peat bogs occur in depressions formed as a result of denudation processes (Velchev et al., 1994). The thickness of the peat layers and the underlying sediments hardly exceeds 1 m. Three peat bogs located nearby springs were selected for study (Fig.
Peat bog Osogovo-1 (site 19)
The peat bog is situated at 1720 m in a depression and occupies a small area of c. 50 m2 on a northeastern slope. Stands of Pinus sylvestris and Juniperus communis grow nearby and patches of Picea abies were planted (Tonkov, 2003a).
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
The core 1.7 m long was collected with Dachnowsky hand-corer equipment. The sediment is composed of Cyperaceae peat. The radiocarbon age of 3 samples of bulk sediment was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Material dated |
| Osogovo-1 | ||||
| Lu-3420 | 45-55 | 790±60 | 800-640 (720) |
peat |
| Lu-3421 | 82-98 | 2220±70 | 2350-2040 (2200) |
peat |
| Lu-3422 | 120-130 | 3350±70 | 3730-3440 (3580) |
peat |
| Osogovo-2 | ||||
| Hv-12550 |
65-80 | 995±75 | 1060-740 (900) |
peat |
| Begbunar | ||||
| LuS-6714 | 20-25 | 245±70 | 490-11 (250) |
4 mg charcoal |
| LuS-6713 | 70-74 | 3190±50 | 3560–3330 (3450) |
5 mg charcoal |
| LuS-6712 | 84-89 | 3755±60 | 4360–3920 (4140) |
6 mg Carex fruits |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 10 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ OS-1 (170-115 cm, Pinus diploxylon-Abies) (~5000-3100 cal. yrs. BP)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type dominates with 65-45%, accompanied by Abies with 8-10%. Other tree taxa such as Juniperus, Alnus, Quercus, Tilia, Corylus and Carpinus are found each with low values of 2-4%. The herb component is represented by Poaceae with 5% and a number of taxa such as Cichoriaceae, Achillea-type, Cirsium-type, Dianthus-type, Lychnis-type, etc. A characteristic feature for the entire diagram are the high values of Scleranthus up to 15-20%.
LPAZ OS-2 (115-55 cm, Pinus diploxylon-Fagus-Abies) (3100-970 cal. yrs. BP)
The dominance of Pinus diploxylon-type continues with 45-50%. A local maximum of Abies pollen 12% is followed by a decline to 3-4%. A peculiar feature is the quick rise of Fagus pollen up to 30%. The pollen curves of Plantago lanceolata, Rumex and Chenopodiaceae are established in this zone.
LPAZ OS-3 (55-0 cm, Fagus-Pinus diploxylon-Poaceae) (970 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
Pollen of Fagus attains a maximum of 50%. The contribution of Pinus diploxylon-type declines to 15% while pollen grains of Abies are scarcely found. Deciduous tree pollen increases, due also to Quercus 6-8%, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya 3-4%, Corylus and Betula. Pollen of Juniperus shows higher frequencies in the uppermost samples. The presence of Poaceae 15% is accompanied by pollen of Artemisia, Brassicaceae, Apiaceae, Secale, etc.
Peat bog Osogovo-2 (site 20)
This small peat bog is located at 1620 m on a southwestern slope close to peat bog Osogovo-1 in a completely deforested area, nearby the touristic hut Trite Buki. Stands of beech are seen in the neighborhood (Tonkov, 1994).
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
The core 0.95 m long was collected with Dachnowsky hand-corer equipment. The sediment is composed of Cyperaceae peat. The accumulation of peat has started c. 1200 cal. yrs. BP as confirmed by the single radiocarbon date (Table
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 5 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ OS-2 (95-63 см, Pinus diploxylon-Fagus-Abies)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type dominates with over 60%, accompanied by Abies 19%, Fagus 10-20% and Quercus 3%. Deciduous tree taxa such as Carpinus betulus, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya, Corylus, Ulmus and Tilia are sporadically found. Among the herbs Poaceae reaches 10% while single finds of pollen of Apiaceae, Achillea-type, Dianthus-type, Cirsium-type, Scabiosa, etc. are registered.
LPAZ O3-2 (63-0 см, Fagus-Pinus diploxylon-Poaceae)
The pollen curve of Fagus rises steeply up to 70% and a decline for Pinus diploxylon-type to 14% is observed. The uppermost pollen spectra reveal a reverse situation with a quick decline of Fagus and some restoration for Pinus diploxylon-type with 40%. Pollen of Quercus, Alnus, Betula, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya is present each with 3-4%. The second maximum of Poaceae 15% is recorded.
Peat bog Begbunar (site 21)
The third peat bog is located at 1750 m (42°08’51.62”N, 22°32’45.05”E) near a spring on a northwestern slope which continues into a steep, deep ravine where isolated stands of beech grow. Not far to the north are visible scattered groups of Pinus sylvestris and Juniperus sibirica (Lazarova et al., 2009, 2015)
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
A core 1.05 m long was collected with Dachnowsky hand-corer equipment from a less densely vegetated area of the bog surface. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-75 cm Cyperaceae-Sphagnum peat, 75-105 cm Cyperaceae peat with sand. The radiocarbon age of Carex fruits and charcoal, extracted from 3 bulk sediment samples, was determined and the results are shown on Table
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 5 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ OS-1 (105-72 cm, Abies-Pinus diploxylon-Betula) (~5000-3300 cal. yrs. BP)
Pollen of Abies 13-3% prevails, followed by Pinus diploxylon-type 6-12% and Betula with a peak of 26% at the transition to the next zone. Deciduous tree pollen is represented also by Corylus up to 6%, Quercus, Tilia, Ulmus each with 1-2%, Alnus and Salix. Minor quantities of pollen are recorded for Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya, Carpinus betulus, Fagus, Fraxinus and Acer. Pollen of Juglans is present throughout the entire core. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 13-43%, Ranunculaceae up to 6%, Achillea-type up to 6%, Rumex 5%, Cichoriaceae up to 4%, etc. The constant presence of Polypodiaceae spores is between 2% and 11%.
LPAZ OS-2 (72-33 cm, Pinus diploxylon-Fagus) (3300-900 cal. yrs. BP)
The abundance of Pinus diploxylon-type pollen is between 15% and 29%, accompanied by a gradual rise of Fagus pollen curve up to 20%. Pollen of Abies almost disappears in this zone. High pollen frequencies up to 40% are established for Poaceae. Pollen of Rosaceae, Fabaceae, Ranunculaceae, Achillea-type reaches 3–4% each. The pollen curve of Cyperaceae rises to 22%.
LPAZ OS-3 (33-0 cm, Fagus-Pinus diploxylon-NAP) (900 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
Pollen of Fagus attains a maximum of 21%, while Pinus diploxylon-type declines to 15%. In the uppermost pollen spectra Quercus, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya and Carpinus betulus rise to 5%, 2% and 1.5%, respectively. Characteristic for this zone are the maximal values for Poaceae 42%, Plantago lanceolata 19%, Cichoriaceae 2%, Rosaceae and Ranunculaceae with 7% each. Cyperaceae pollen is 20% with a maximum of 32%.
Plant macrofossil analysis
Complimentary to pollen analysis plant macrofossils and charred wood fragments (> 2 mm) were studied. Sub-samples for macrofossil analysis with a sediment volume of 50 ml were taken at every 5 cm. The material was sieved through meshes of 0.4 and 0.16 mm holes. The results of the analysis are presented as absolute numbers of determinable items (needles, seeds, nutlets, etc.) on a macrofossil diagram (Fig.
LMAZ BM-1 (95-55 cm) (~5000-2300 cal. yrs. BP)
In the lower part of the core the prevailing material is charred wood from Acer sp., Fraxinus, Alnus, Prunoideae/Maloideae. Also charred wood particles from Fagus, Pinus sp. and from undeterminable conifers are found. Charred leaf fragments of Pinus sp. are present too. The interval 70-55 cm shows an abundance of fruits/seeds and vegetative parts from several semi-shrubs (Bruckenthalia spiculifolia, Vaccinium myrtillus, Genista carinalis) and herbs (Hypericum, Carex and Juncus species).
LMAZ BM-2 (55-0 cm) (2300 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
There are only occasional finds of undeterminable charred wood (0.2–2 mm). Most abundant are nutlets from Vaccinium myrtillus, fruits from Carex echinata, Genista carinalis and Scirpus sylvaticus. Nutlets and seeds from Potentilla and Hypericum species are also determined. Vegetative parts from Drepanocladus sp. are present in addition to those from Poaceae, Cyperaceae and Sphagnum.
Vegetation history in the Osogovo Mountain
The paleoecological information obtained from the analyzed cores, in conjunction with the radiocarbon dates, reveals the vegetation development in the central part of the Osogovo Mountain during the last 5000 years. The oldest pollen spectra (pollen zone OS-1, Fig.
The surface area of the Peat bog Begbunar was covered by various Juncus, Carex and Sphagnum species. Following the second peak of the macrocharcoal fragments c. 3200-3000 cal. yrs. BP, the appearance of macrofossils from heliophilous taxa such as Genista carinalis, Vaccinium myrtillus and Bruckenthalia spiculifolia was most probably connected with increased opening of the landscape in the nearby surroundings. This picture of the vegetation cover on the high central parts of the mountain for the time interval 5000-3500 cal. yrs. BP is identical with the results from the Peat bog Osogovo-1.
Indications of human activity are noticed already c. 5000 cal. yrs. BP when pollen of Secale and Triticum-type was deposited, alongside with the presence of pollen from Rumex and Plantago lanceolata (pollen zone OS-1, Fig.
The next stage in the development of the vegetation cover in the Osogovo Mountain lasted between 3300 and 900 cal. yrs. BP (pollen zone OS-2, Figs
The first maximum of beech in the Osogovo Mountain was reached c. 1000 cal. yrs. BP as visible in all pollen diagrams. The final advance of Fagus has occurred a couple of centuries ago and was quite probably primarily controlled by climatic change.
The rather uniform content of the macrofossil record after c. 2200 cal. yrs. BP (zone BM-2, Fig.
The forests served as an important source for wood used for construction purposes, heating and metallurgy. The local economy flourished as the Romans introduced advanced methods for the cultivation of the fields (Bozilova et al., 1994). Since this period the cultivation of walnut in the area has become widespread, as evidenced by the continuous pollen curve of Juglans (Fig.
During the last centuries the general trend of the vegetation development in the Osogovo Mountain witnessed a progressive large-scale degradation of the woodlands. The destruction of the remnants of the pine forests culminated in their fragmentary state within the beech belt, above it, or in isolated and inaccessible places. The beech forests were also subjected to exploitation which resulted in the artificial lowering of the timber-line at many places. The peat bogs investigated remained in the treeless zone above the beech forests. The open areas were occupied by diverse herb communities composed of Poaceae, Ranunculaceae, Rosaceae, Fabaceae, Caryophyllaceae and Apiaceae species. Until the last decades intensive cattle-breeding was practiced, as proven by the presence of a large number of anthropogenic pollen indicators such as Cichoriaceae, Plantago lanceolata, Rumex, Urtica, etc. Nowadays, the absence of grazing is the main reason for the spontaneous restoration of Pinus sylvestris on some terrains. Parallel to these changes, signs of a partial enlargement of hornbeam and mixed oak communities are visible at lower altitudes.
In summary, pollen and plant macrofossil analyses showed that the vegetation cover of the Osogovo Mountain has featured important transformations during the last 5000 years. A coniferous belt composed of Abies alba and Pinus has existed at high altitudes and below it were distributed oak forests with Carpinus, Tilia, Fraxinus, Acer and Ulmus. The replacement of the coniferous forests by beech started c. 3200 cal. yrs. BP and was of complex character, promoted by factors related to both climate change and anthropogenic disturbance. The remnants of the coniferous forests and the monodominant or mixed communities of Fagus sylvatica were subjected to destruction during the last centuries. Evidence for a pronounced human impact in the study area, including deforestation, stock-breeding and agriculture activities, is available since the Late Bronze Age.
6. Maleshevska Mountain
Physico-geographical characteristics and modern vegetation
Maleshevska Mountain (peak Iljov vrah, 1802 m) is part of the Osogovo-Belasitsa mountain range. The ridge of the mountain is a highly curved arc, projecting to the south, along the state border with the Republic of Northern Macedonia. Most of its eastern part remains within Bulgaria and covers an area of c. 497 km2. In general, the mountain resembles an isosceles triangle with its tip facing west. To the east, its slopes descend steeply to the Kresna Gorge of the Struma river and the northern part of the Sandanski-Petrich Basin, which separates it from the Pirin Mountain. To the west it borders the southeast, south and southwest of the Maleshevo historical and geographical area. To the north through the saddle Chetalo (1619 m) it connects with the Vlachina Mountain and the valley of the Sushichka river, a right tributary of the Struma river. To the south the valley of the Lebnitsa river, a right tributary of the Struma river separates it from the Ograzhden Mountain. Gradually to the south the ridge of the mountain decreases (Todorov et al., 2016) (Fig.
The mountain has a complex geological structure. The lithology of the area is related to the distribution of some major types of metamorphic, magma and sedimentary rocks. The metamorphic rocks are of pre-Cambrian age, represented by biotite and bivalve gneisses and migmatites, accounting for about 60% of the territory. Granites are found in the northeastern parts and in the valley of the Lebnitsa river, spots of volcanic rocks in the highest denudation surfaces and in the lowest places. Paleogene, Neogene and Quaternary sediments are also encountered (Zagorchev, 2001).
The mountain falls in the continental-mediterranean climate region. The average annual temperature in the foothills is 14°C, and at an altitude of 1700-1800 m it is 5°-6°C. The average annual precipitation is also vertically and horizontally differentiated, in the southern and lower parts of the mountain it is 500-600 mm with a maximum in November, at a height of 600-1000 m it is 700-800 mm with a maximum in October, and above 1000 m it is 1000 mm with a maximum in May (Velev, 2010).
The southwestern, southern and eastern slopes of the mountain belong to the catchment area of the Struma river and are drained by its right tributaries. The northwestern slopes facing the Maleshevo region belong to the Vardar river basin. The rivers in the mountain have rain-snow feeding with winter-spring high water and summer-autumn low water (Todorov et al., 2016).
The most widespread are the leached cinnamon forest soils (Chromic Luvisols) up to 700 m and brown mountain forest soils (Distric Cambisols) up to 1600-1700 m. The former are characteristic of the oak belt and the latter of the beech belt and the remnants of the coniferous forests. Mountain meadow soils (Humic Umbrosols) are developed above the upper timber-line. The erosion is ubiquitous, especially in the lower parts of the mountain (Ninov, 1997).
According to the last geobotanical zoning, Maleshevska Mountain is included as a separate region in the Western Bulgarian Border Mountain District of the Illyrian (Balkan) Province (Bondev, 2002). The combination of geographical location, climatic, soil and hydrological conditions has influenced the character of the modern vegetation, expressed in the presence of rare and southern elements, as well as a clear distribution in three vertical belts. The first belt of the xerothermic oak forests is well separated on the southeast and eastern slopes up to 500-600 m. It is composed of the communities of Quercus pubescens, Quercus frainetto, Carpinus orientalis, Paliurus spina-christii, etc. In this belt, over the village of Kamenitsa, there are communities of the evergreen oak Quercus coccifera. Other mediterranean elements are also found, such as Juniperus excelsa, Phyllirea latifolia and Jasminum fruticans. The riparian associations of Platanus orientalis are also characteristic. In the belt of the mesophilous and xeromesophilous oak and hornbeam forests (600-900 m) the basic communities are those of Quercus dalechampii and Ostrya carpinifolia. They include also Carpinus betulus, Fraxinus ornus and Acer pseudoplatanus. Groups of Pinus nigra are also found. The beech forest belt is very well developed and relatively compact above 900-1000 m. These forests are usually monodominant but in their composition participate also Abies alba, Abies borisii-regis, Betula pendula, Populus tremula, Pinus nigra and Pinus sylvestris. The flattened ridges are characterized by the spread of high-mountain species and fragments of communities of Vaccinium myrtillus, Vaccinium uliginosum, Chamaecytisus austriacus, Bruckenthalia spiculifolia, etc. (Velchev, Tonkov, 1986)
Study site
Peat bog (site 22)
The peat bog investigated is located in a treeless area at an altitude of 1720 m near a spring on a gentle east slope, above the timber-line shaped by the beech forests. It occupies a small area of about 50 m2 (Fig.
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
A sediment core 2.05 m long was recovered with Dachnowsky hand-corer equipment. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-180 cm Cyperaceae peat, 180-205 cm peat with sand. The radiocarbon age of 3 samples of bulk sediment was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Material dated |
| Hv-11347 | 26-29 | 2650±105 | 2380-3010 (2695) |
peat |
| Hv-11349 | 85-89 | 3205±185 | 2950-3900 (3425) |
peat |
| Hv-11487 | 171-180 | 6535±105 | 7250-7600 (7425) |
peat |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 5 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ ML-1 (205-115 cm, Abies-Pinus diploxylon-Quercetum mixtum) (~8000-4500 cal. yrs. BP)
High pollen values are recorded for Abies 35-50% and Pinus diploxylon-type 37%. Well represented is also pollen of Quercus 24%, Carpinus betulus 7%, Alnus up to 5%, Corylus, Tilia, Ulmus, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya and Humulus/Cannabis-type. Single pollen grains of Rhamnus/Paliurus-type, Jasminum and Hedera are determined. The variety of herb pollen taxa is considerable, represented by Poaceae 13-15%, Apiaceae up to 8%, Cichoriaceae 2%, Chenopodiaceae, Ranunculus-type, Artemisia, Cyperaceae 9%, etc.
LPAZ ML-2 (115-42 cm, Pinus diploxylon-Abies-Fagus) (4500-2800 cal. yrs. BP)
The pollen curve of Abies declines to 3% and rises again to a second maximum of 24%. Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type is present with 50%. The most characteristic feature is the appearance of the continuous pollen curve of Fagus with up to 5%. The rest of the deciduous tree taxa, with the exception of Quercus 12%, are present with values below 2%. It is worth mentioning the first records of Juglans, Castanea, Phyllirea and Vitis pollen. The pollen curve of Poaceae varies between 10% and 23%, followed by Scleranthus and Cirsium-type with 7% and 5%, respectively. Pollen of Polygonum aviculare-type, Plantago lanceolata, Urtica, etc. is also found.
LPAZ ML-3 (42-0 cm, Fagus-Pinus diploxylon) (2800 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
Pollen of Pinus diploxylon-type is present with 55-25%. The pollen curve of Abies reaches its last maximum of 11% and declines. The most characteristic feature is the rise of Fagus pollen curve up to 30-33%. Pollen of Quercus participates with 10-5%, together with Carpinus betulus, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya, Corylus, Alnus. Pollen grains of Juglans and Castanea are determined in all samples. The frequencies of the herb pollen taxa slightly increase, represented by Poaceae 12%, Scleranthus 11%, Cichoriaceae 8%, Artemisia 6%, Plantago lanceolata 3%, Cirsium-type, Polygonum aviculare-type, Rumex, Filipendula, Cyperaceae 7%, etc.
Vegetation history in the Maleshevska Mountain
The formation of the peat bog has started about 8000 years ago when forests of Abies with admixture of pines (Pinus sylvestris, Pinus nigra) have dominated the landscape above 1000-1200 m, thus shaping also the timber-line. The wide distribution of the conifers was favored by an increase in precipitation and air/soil humidity during the Holocene climatic optimum, proved also by the find of pollen of Hedera and Humulus/Cannabis. The peat bog was included in the upper part of the coniferous belt and on more open places developed stands of Juniperus. Groups of Alnus were found along the mountain streams and brooks. Small populations of Fagus and Betula were also present. Below the coniferous belt were distributed mixed oak forests (Quercetum mixtum) with abundant Tilia, Ulmus, Carpinus betulus and Corylus. The pollen assemblages include irregular, small quantities of anthropogenic taxa such as Plantago lanceolata, Rumex and Scleranthus which indicate that the intensity of the human impact on the natural vegetation was still rather low, at least in the high mountain areas (pollen zone ML-1, Fig.
Substantial changes in the composition and distribution of the forest vegetation have occurred after c. 4500 cal. yrs. BP. Particularly notable is the quick decline of the areas occupied by Abies and the increase of Pinus. It is likely, that a decrease in air humidity and human intervention may have limited the spread of Abies forests. Changes also occurred in the deciduous forests, facing lower participation of Corylus, Ulmus, Carpinus betulus, Ostrya carpinifolia and Carpinus orientalis. Quite probably, the upper boundary of the oak belt has also descended, from where a narrow strip of Fagus began to form, or the distribution of beech was mosaic in places previously occupied by Abies and Carpinus betulus. Mixed coniferous-beech communities have already existed as Fagus was invading new areas due to its better growth and renewal opportunities. At the same time evidence of almost continuous presence of Juglans and Castanea appeared in the pollen record (pollen zone ML-2, Fig.
Around 2800 cal. yrs. BP a heavy destruction of the woody vegetation has occurred, affecting both the deciduous and coniferous forests in the mountain. Undoubtedly, the reason was the anthropogenic factor, confirmed by the increased amount of pollen from plants such as Scleranthus, Cichoriaceae, Polygonum aviculare, Urtica. It is assumed that the peat bog was already situated above the upper timber-line.
The last period of vegetation history in the mountain is related to the formation of the modern belt differentiation. As a result of its rapid spread, Fagus has become the dominant tree species and has formed a belt between 1000 and 1700 m. The distribution of the beech forests ended the dominance of the conifers and has led to their restriction only in inaccessible places. On one hand, the cooling at the beginning of the Subatlantic proved to be conducive to beech, and on the other, the process of its rapid enlargement was aided by humans. Extensive areas were cleared for livestock breeding and the coniferous wood was preferred material for burning and construction activities. This is proved by the increasing participation of cultivated cereals and antropophytes such as Plantago lanceolata, Rumex, Scleranthus and other herbs. There was a noticeable decrease in the areas occupied by the oak forests, which have been used by the local people on easily accessible slopes. In their place, secondary communities of Quercus pubescens and Carpinus orientalis settled on eroded terrains (pollen zone ML-3, Fig.
The location of the peat bog was already away from the beech forests, and grasslands spread over vast areas around it. In recent centuries, the local people started to exploit also the forests in the beech belt, which is nowadays in some places already thinned out and filled against erosion processes with artificial plantations of Pinus sylvestris.
7. Vlahina Mountain
Physico-geographical characteristics and modern vegetation
Vlahina Mountain (peak Ogreyak, 1932 m) is part of the Osogovo-Belasitsa mountain range. It extends from north to south about 50 km and its width varies from 12 km north to 30 km south. A section of the state border between Bulgaria and the Republic of Northern Macedonia crosses the ridge. Most of the mountain area remains on Bulgarian territory. It is bordered on the northwest by the Osogovo Mountain (the Black Rock saddle, 930 m), on the south by the Maleshevska Mountain (the saddle Chetalo, 1619 m), and on the east and west by the valleys of the Struma and Bregalnitsa rivers. (Fig.
The mountain falls in the continental-mediterranean climate region. The average annual temperature is 11°C, the average temperature amplitude is 21°C, the average annual rainfall is 700 mm with a maximum in the autumn and a minimum in summer (Velev, 2010). Climatically, the mountain is characterized by approximately equal amounts of winter rainfall and summer rainfall, which tends to equalize the mediterranean with the continental climatic influence (Tishkov, 1976).
The predominant soils in the lower parts are leached cinnamon forest (Chromic Luvisols), followed by brown mountain forest soils (Distric Cambisols) and above the timber-line are distributed mountain meadow soils (Humic Umbrosols). The spread of shallow soils (Umbric Leptosols) is highly significant, and deluvial soils (Colluviosols) occur in some sections. As a result of active erosion processes regosols (Regosols) are also quite widespread (Ninov, 1997; Todorov et al., 2014).
According to the last geobotanical zoning Vlahina Mountain is included as a separate region in the Western Bulgarian Border Mountain District of the Illyrian (Balkan) Province (Bondev, 2002) but due to the narrow morphographic connection to the south with the Maleshevska Mountain and the slight difference in their altitudes, the same vegetation belts are observed (Velchev, Tonkov, 1986; Bondev, 2002). The vegetation of each of the mountains has certain features that should be taken into account. For example, in the belt of the xerothermic oak forests, well distinct on the eastern and northeastern slopes of the Vlahina Mountain, there are no characteristic mediterranean species like Quercus coccifera. The communities of Carpinus betulus in the northern parts of the mountain are relatively compact. The beech forests also include Betula pendula, Populus tremula, Abies alba, Pinus sylvestris. Particularly characteristic are the mixed communities of beech with Pinus nigra preserved above the village of Gabra and below peak Momina Skala at 1200 m. Compared to the Maleshevska Mountain, the ridges are characterized by widespread distribution of fragments from the communities of Chamaecytisus austriacus, Juniperus communis, Vaccinium myrtillus, as well as of a number of high mountain species (Kitanov et al., 1986).
Study sites
Peat bog Kadiytsa (site 23)
The peat bog is located at 1700 m near a small stream in a vast deforested area, above the beech forests, south of peak Kadiytsa, at an area of about 150 m2 (Fig.
Coring and lithology
The thickness of the peat layers varies between 40 and 80 cm, and at some places it reaches 100-120 cm. The core is 1.1 m long and was recovered with Dachnowsky hand-corer equipment. The sediments consist of Cyperaceae peat mixed with vegetative plant remains. The attempts to obtain radiocarbon dates were not successful.
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 5 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ K-1 (110-37 cm, Pinus diploxylon-Abies-Fagus)
Tree pollen dominates with 80%, contributed by Pinus diploxylon 62-68%, followed by Abies 20%, Quercus, Corylus, Alnus and Juniperus each with 2-7%. Pollen of Juglans and Syringa is also determined. From the herb pollen taxa could be mentioned Poaceae 2-8%, Cichoriaceae 4%, Apiaceae, Scleranthus, Cirsium-type, etc. The anthropogenic pollen taxa like Cerealia-type, Plantago lanceolata, Rumex are present sporadically. The curve of Polypodiaceae reaches 10%.
LPAZ K-2 (37-0 cm, Fagus-Pinus diploxylon-NAP)
Total herb pollen is present with 25%, contributed by Poaceae 10%, Scleranthus 5%, Cichoriaceae 3%, Plantago lanceolata, Cichoriaceae, etc. Arboreal pollen taxa participate with low values with the exception of Pinus diploxylon-type 60-75%. The pollen curve of Fagus reaches 15%. Pollen of Juglans is recorded in all samples. Spores of Polypodiaceae are sporadically found.
Swamp Obel (site 24)
This smal swamp with a triangular shape is located near the village of Obel (41°58‘07.36“N, 22°55‘32.21“E) at 950 m on the right side of the road Blagoevgrad-Delchevo and occupies an area of 0.35 ha (Fig.
Coring and lithology
The sediment core is 1.1 m long and was recovered with Dachnowsky hand-corer equipment from the peripheral western part of the swamp at water depth of 0.5 m. The sediment is clay. The attempts to obtain radiocarbon dates were not successful.
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 5-10 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ Ob-1 (110-72 cm, Pinus diploxylon-Quercus)
Tree pollen dominates with 75-90%, contributed by Pinus diploxylon-type 80-40%, followed by Quercus 10-15%, Salix 5% (with a short peak of 21% at level 75 cm), small quantities of pollen from Juniperus, Alnus, Fagus, Corylus and traces of Acer, Carpinus betulus, Juglans and Vitis pollen. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 10%, Polygonum aviculare-type 5%, Cichoriaceae, Achillea-type and Chenopodiaceae each below 5%, Scleranthus, Brassicaceae, etc. The hygrophytes and hydrophytes are represented by Cyperaceae, Typha/Sparganium-type, Typha latifolia 10%, Lemna 8%.
LPAZ Ob-2 (72-42 cm, Pinus diploxylon-NAP-Quercus)
This zone is characterized by a high abundance of herb pollen taxa such as Poaceae with a maximum of 35% (level 45 cm), Cihoriaceae 5%, Chenopodiaceae 5%, Brassicaceae, including a number of anthropogenic taxa (Cerealia-type, Triticum-type, Centaurea cyanus, Plantago lanceolata, Urtica). Tree pollen is represented by Pinus diploxylon-type up to 60% with a steep decline at the transition to the next zone, Quercus with minimal values of 5-7%, the appearance of continuos pollen curves of Juniperus, Fagus, Ulmus, Carpinus betulus, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya. Finds of Juglans pollen are regular. Pollen of Lemna, Typha latifolia, Alisma and Iris is also determined.
LPAZ Ob-3 (42-0 cm, Quercus-Fagus-Carpinus)
The transition to the last zone is clearly marked by decline of the total tree pollen to 30%. Subsequently, the participation of tree taxa increases again, contributed by Quercus up to 27%, Juniperus 6%, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya 7%, Carpinus betulus 4%, Ulmus, Alnus and Salix each with 4%. In the uppermost samples pollen of Fagus reaches 7% and Pnus diploxylon-type 20-25%. Among the herb pollen taxa a steady presence for pollen of Poaceae 7-10%, Chenopodiaceae 5%, Cichoriaceae 5%, Achillea-type 3% is recorded. Notable is the continuous participation of pollen of Triticum-type, Polygonum aviculare-type, Rumex and Scleranthus. The hygrophytes and hydrophytes are represented by pollen of Cyperaceae, Typha/Sparganium-type, Lemna and Potamogeton.
Vegetation history in the Vlahina Mountain
The age of the bottom part of the core from Peat bog Kadiytsa is provisionally estimated at c. 4700 cal. yrs. BP (pollen zone K-1, Fig.
Several thousands years ago in the southern high part of the Vlahina Mountain coniferous forests of Pinus and Abies were distributed. Large areas were occupied by monodominant or mixed communities of Abies in which the herb layer was composed of shade-tolerant species including ferns. In the oak forests below the coniferous belt were found Tilia, Corylus, Carpinus orientalis and Ostrya carpinifolia. Small groups or populations of Fagus and Carpinus betulus were distributed in places between the oak and the coniferous forest belts. The relatively high percentage of Alnus pollen could be explained by the presence of groups near streams. The herb communities occupied small areas and were composed mainly of Poaceae, Apiaceae, Cichoriaceae, Lamiaceae, Asteraceae and Ranunculaceae species.
Around 2800 cal. yrs. BP a substantial change in the forest cover has occurred, characterized by the nearly complete disappearance of Abies and the enlargement of the areas occupied by Pinus. The expansion of Fagus was preceded by a short-term increase of herbs (pollen zone K-2, Fig.
The next period of vegetation development in the Vlahina Mountain marked the widespread distribution of beech forests in place of the conifers. As a result, only separate groups of pines (Pinus sylvestris and Pinus nigra) were preserved inside the beech forest belt or above it.
At lower altitudes the destructions in the oak forest belt have resulted in the rise of the total herb pollen and the significant presence and increase of the anthropogenic pollen taxa such as Triticum-type, Cerealia-type, Secale, Plantago lanceolata, Rumex, Polygonum aviculare, Cichoriaceae, Chenopodiaceae. The pollen diagram from Swamp Obel manifests a period of human occupation in the area (pollen zone Ob-2, Fig.
In recent centuries, as a result of the permanent settlement in these lands and the diverse human activities, the natural vegetation in all belts was destructed and replaced in many places by secondary shrub or herb plant communities.
It should be noted that the palynological studies in the Maleshevska and Vlahina mountains are the most convincing evidence for the widespread of coniferous forests in the distant past west of the Struma river. The dynamic processes in this montane region were not prolonged and the modern vegetation belt differentiation was formed also under the influence of human activity.
8. Belasitsa Mountain
Physico-geographical characteristics and modern vegetation
Belasitsa Mountain (peak Radomir, 2029 m) is the southernmost part of the Osogovo-Belasitsa mountain range located in the southwestern corner of the country, south of the Strumeshnitsa river valley. The territory of the mountain is divided among three countries: Bulgaria, Greece and the Republic of Northern Macedonia. It extends from the Rupel gorge in the east to the Kosturinska saddle in the west about 60 km in length. On the territory of Bulgaria are located about 30% of its area, the northern slopes, and the length of this section is 33 km with an average width of 4-5 km (Fig.
The climate in the region is continental-mediterranean and is characterized by mild winters but with frequent and sometimes heavy rainfall, and hot dry summers. The average annual temperature is 13.9°C and decreases to 3°C with increasing altitude. The average January temperatures change from 1°C in the low parts to -6°C in the highlands, and the average July temperatures from 21°C to 11°C, respectively. The average annual precipitation is 676 mm and depending on the altitude it varies from 600-700 mm at the foot of the mountain to 900 mm in the high parts. Their distribution is characterized by autumn-winter maximum and summer minimum (Koleva, Peneva, 1990; Velev, 2010).
The leached cinnamon forest soils (Chromic Cambisols) occur on the lower slopes and above 800 m up to the ridge they change to brown forest soils (Cambisols) with a thin humus horizon (Ninov, 1997).
According to the last geobotanical zoning Belasitsa Mountain is included as a separate district of the Macedonian-Thracian Province (Bondev, 2002). The forested area of the Bulgarian part of the mountain is c. 10000 ha. The prevailing territory of this area is covered by native broadleaf forests (74.5 %) while the rest of it is forest plantations (25.5%). The most widespread tree species are Fagus sylvatica (48.3% from the total forested area) and Castanea sativa (13.1%), followed by Pinus sylvestris (6.8%) and Pinus nigra (5.9%) (Velichkov et al., 2010). The present vegetation on Bulgarian territory is distributed in several vertical belts. The lowermost xerothermic oak belt (up to 300-400 m) is fragmented, composed of Quercus pubescens, Quercus frainetto, Juniperus oxycedrus, Paliurus spina-christi. Along small riverlets and brooks are found communities of Platanus orientalis. The belt of mesophilous and xeromesophilous oak and hornbeam forests (300/400-800/900 m) is characterized by the dominance of communities of Castanea sativa. In their composition are growing also Fraxinus ornus, Platanus orientalis, Ostrya carpinifolia, Colutea arborescens, Coronilla emerus, etc. The beech forest belt (800/900-1700 m) is very well developed, formed mainly by monodominant communities of Fagus sylvatica. On small areas are growing Abies borisii-regis and Betula pendula. Taxus baccata and Ilex aquifolium are also found. Nowadays beech shapes the upper timber-line as a coniferous belt is lacking. Above the beech forests follows a belt of shrubby and herb vegetation composed of Juniperus communis, Vaccinium myrtillus, Bruckenthalia spiculifolia, Chamaecytisus absinthioides, Nardus stricta, Festuca vallida, etc. In the lower part of this belt are growing isolated trees of Pinus sylvestris. Overall, the vegetation is highly influenced by the anthropogenic activity, particularly the oak and hornbeam forests, and the communities of sweet chestnut as well (Velchev, Tonkov, 1986; Bondev, 1991).
The southern slopes on Greek territory are deforested to a great extent. Up to 1000 m are found Quercus coccifera, Phyllirea latifolia, Pistacia terebinthus, Quercus dalechampii, Quercus pubescens, Carpinus orientalis, and in the northeastern parts Castanea sativa. In the eastern part of the beech forests, between 1150 and 1300 m, are growing groups of Abies borisii-regis (Stojanov, 1921; Athanasiadis et al., 2000, 2003).
Study sites
Mire Gyola (site 25)
This small mire, named Gyola, is located at 714 m (41°21’17.12”N, 23°07’31.31” E) in the center of the Bulgarian part of the mountain, southwards from the village of Kolarovo (Fig.
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
A sediment core 2.1 m long was obtained from the peripheral part of the mire at water depth of 30 cm with Dachnowsky hand-corer equipment. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-80 cm yellow-brown clay with sand, 80-140 cm grey clay with sand, 140-210 cm yellow-brown clay with sand. The radiocarbon age of 4 samples of bulk sediment was determined and the results are shown on Table
| Lab. code | Depth (cm) | 14C age (BP) | 14C age cal. BP, ±2σ (mid-point) | Calibration (yrs. BC/AD) |
Material dated |
| Mire Gyola | |||||
| Ua-43943 | 30-35 | 507±30 | 630-500 (565) |
1320-1450 AD (1385) |
clay with sand |
| Ua-41527 | 120-126 | 1474±30 | 1410-1300 (1355) |
560-650 AD (605) |
clay with sand |
| Ua-43944 | 148-153 | 3277±30 | 3580-3410 (3495) |
1610-1420 BC (1515) |
clay with sand |
| Ua-41249 | 176-190 | 7099±44 | 8010-7840 (7925) |
6060-5890 BC (5975) |
clay with sand |
| Belasitsa-1 | |||||
| INRNE- 112 | 50-70 | 1850±50 | 1900-1620 (1760) |
50-330 AD (190) |
peat with sand |
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 5-10 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ BL-1 (210-172 cm, Artemisia-Castanea-Poaceae) (~8500-5000 cal. yrs. BP)
The dominant pollen type is Artemisia with 45-70%, followed by Castanea 15%, Poaceae 12%, Alnus 7% and Quercus robur-type 4%. Pollen of Juglans is present in all samples. Low percentages are recorded for Fagus, Querus cerris-type, Pinus diploxylon-type, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya and various herbs.
LPAZ BL-2 (172-130 cm, Castanea-Artemisia-Pinus diploxylon-Poaceae) (5000-2000 cal. yrs. BP)
The pollen curve of Castanea rises to 50%, while Artemisia declines to 10%. Other pollen taxa which could be mentioned are Pinus diploxylon-type 10%, Poaceae 15%, Alnus 7%, Cichoriaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Polygonum aviculare-type and Dianthus-type each below 5%.
LPAZ BL-3 (130-42 cm, Castanea-Pinus diploxylon-Poaceae) (2000-650 cal. yrs. BP)
Pollen of Castanea continues to dominate with 50-60%, accompanied by Pinus diploxylon-type 10-15%, Alnus 10-5%, minor quantities of Fagus, Abies, Corylus, Carpinus and Juglans pollen. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 15%, Artemisia 8%, Polygonum aviculare-type 7%, Cichoriaceae 6%, Apiaceae, Plantago lanceolata, etc. Pollen of Cyperaceae 5%, spores of Polypodiaceae 3% and Pteridium 4% are determined.
LPAZ BL-4 (42-0 cm, Castanea-Fagus) (650 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
Pollen of Castanea dominates with 95% in the uppermost samples, accompanied by other tree and herb pollen taxa with rather low values such as Fagus, Pinus diploxylon-type, Poaceae, Cichoriaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Plantago lanceolata.
Peat bog Belasitsa-1 (site 26)
This small peat bog is located on a north-facing slope, above the timber-line, at 1640 m (41°20’08.82”N, 23°00’15.18”E) nearby a small spring (Fig.
Coring, lithology and radiocarbon dating
A sediment core 0.9 m long was obtained with Dachnowsky hand-corer equipment. The lithology of the sediments is: 0-10 см peat, 10-80 см peat with sand, 80-90 см sand. The radiocarbon age of one sample of bulk sediment was determined and the result is shown on Table
Pollen analysis
Pollen analysis was performed at 10 cm interval and a percentage pollen diagram is constructed (Fig.
LPAZ BLa-1 (90-67 cm, Fagus-Pinus diploxylon-Poaceae) (~2500-2000 cal. yrs. BP)
The dominant tree pollen taxa are Fagus 10-20% and Pinus diploxylon-type 14-18%, accompanied by Quercus, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya, Alnus and Tilia each with 2-4%. Pollen of Castanea is sporadically found. The herb pollen taxa are represented by Poaceae 12-20%, Rumex 10-20%, Cichoriaceae 8%, Plantago lanceolata up to 20%, Scleranthus 5-7%.
LPAZ BLa-2 (67-25 cm, Fagus-Castanea-Poaceae) (~2000-700 cal. yrs. BP)
The pollen curve of Fagus retains values of 15-12%, while Pinus diploxylon-type is below 10%. The pollen curves of Juniperus and Castanea appear with 1-3% each. The other tree taxa demonstrate no changes in their pollen frequencies. The presence of Bruckenthalia pollen with 10-12% is considered as a local effect. The participation of Poaceae rises to 30-35%. Pollen of Triticum-type, Rumex, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculaceaе, Cichoriaceae, Fabaceae is determined. Pollen of Cyperaceae reaches 20%.
LPAZ BLa-3 (25-0 cm, Fagus- Poaceae-Castanea) (700 cal. yrs. BP-till present)
The pollen curve of Fagus slightly decreases, accompanied by a rise for Poaceae, Juniperus, Achillea-type, Ranunculaceae, Cyperaceae pollen. No changes are recorded for the participation of Castanea pollen.
Vegetation history in the Belasitsa Mountain
The information from the pollen diagram of Mire Gyola is rather valuable as it reveals the dynamics in the vegetation cover on the northern slopes of the mountain at low altitudes for the last 8500 years. Of particular interest is the history of Castanea sativa because this is the first long record from Bulgaria which throws light on the ongoing discussion about the spontaneous or anthropogenic origin of sweet chestnut in the country. During the first stage of vegetation development (pollen zone BL-1, Fig.
The review of Krebs et al. (2004) presented an attempt to develop a Castanea refugium probability index on the localization of sweet chestnut refugia in Europe and its subsequent migration through the Holocene based on paleobotanical data (an extended palynological approach and macro-remains). One of the main conclusions was the identification of Southeastern and Southwestern Bulgaria as potential medium-probability refugia territories that required further studies. The main argument for Southwestern Bulgaria was the appearance of a minimal amount of pollen (0.5-1%) after 7500 cal. yrs. BP. The new palynological evidence from Mire Gyola effectively supports this hypothesis and quite probably this area has sheltered sweet chestnut in postglacial time.
A later study on this topic, using a palaeodistribution modelling approach on an European scale for two crucial periods, i.e. Last Glacial Maximum and mid Holocene (Roces-Díaz et al., 2018), has detected for the LGM potential refugia on the three large Mediterranean peninsulas (Balkan, Italian and Iberian), along the Atlantic coast of France and Spain, and along the southern coast of the Black Sea. This distribution was validated by fossil records, and is also in agreement with genetic analyses of the species. The results also suggest a postglacial expansion of Castanea sativa in the mid-Holocene, when climatic conditions were more favorable for it than current climatic conditions in Europe. So that, some of the isolated populations in Southern Central Europe and on the Mediterranean peninsulas could represent current refugia from the Holocene expansion. However, the later influence of humans also has to be considered.
A similar conclusion can also be assumed for the distribution of Juglans. Walnut is considered as a native tree species to some regions of Bulgaria, like in the northwestern montane part of the country, where this tree grows on rocky, sandy terrains, far away from the villages (Velchev, 1971). The nearest to Belasitsa Mountain palynological site studied is the peat bog in the Maleshevska Moutain located above the present timber-line. On the relevant pollen diagram the appearance of Castanea and Juglans is synchronous, c. 4800 cal. yrs. BP (Fig.
The beginning of the next stage of dynamic changes in the forest cover of the Belasitsa Mountain (pollen zone BL-2, Fig.
The palynological information from Peat bog Belasitsa-1 situated above the present timber-line, reveals the vegetation dynamics at higher altitudes in the last c. 2500 years (Fig.
The final stage of the forest development spans the last 5-6 centuries (pollen zone BL-4, Fig.
More detailed palynological and paleoecological information on the changes in the vegetation cover after 650 cal. yrs. BP (XIV-th cent. AD) on the southern slopes of Belasitsa Mountain is presented by Athanasidis et al. (2003). Between 650 and 450 cal. yrs. BP the tree vegetation was already severely restricted in its distribution. Above 1400 m fragments of Pinus communities were still found, while Fagus and Abies were represented by separate stands. From 460 to 260 cal. yrs. BP (XVI-th-XVIII-th cent. AD) as a result of increasing human intervention, much of the communities of Pinus were destroyed, with a subsequent decrease of the upper timber-line. In the course of the above time interval there has been a short-term expansion of the areas occupied by Fagus, which can be explained by both human activity and the climatic conditions during the Little Ice Age. A similar late maximum in the spread of Fagus was also established for several Greek mountains bordering with the Republic of Northern Macedonia (Gerasimidis, Athanasiadis, 1995). Subsequently, a profound decline in the distribution of the forest vegetation was recorded as anthropogenic interventions took place in all vegetation belts and deforested areas were colonized by herb vegetation. Regarding Castanea sativa, which grows nowadays in the northeastern Greek part of the Belasitsa Mountain, this tree started slightly to increase its area as oak forests declined (Athanasiadis et al., 2003).
9. Anthropogenic impact on the natural vegetation
The natural vegetation of Bulgaria was significantly influenced by the millennial diverse human activity at many places. One of the important issues in considering the impact of Man on vegetation in the past is related to the establishment of agriculture, the practice of animal husbandry and the acquisition of plant material for various purposes, which has started c. 8000 years ago in Southwestern Bulgaria. To establish the nature of this activity and the degree of anthropopression a basic role is attributed to paleobotanical research, including study of plant remains from archaeological sites, or plant materials used for radiocarbon dating, and especially to pollen analysis to infer the past vegetation cover. Pollen analysis is also one of the powerful tools to reconstruct climate change and thus provides crucial evidence on the impact of climate on human cultures.
The palynological archives provide information on the livelihood of the people during the different historical epochs on regional scale. The comparison of these data with paleoethnobotanical evidence from archaeological sites presents a reliable picture of the land use, but also of the anthropogenic impact on the natural vegetation. Pollen grains from cultivated cereals such as Cerealia-type, Triticum-type, Hordeum-type, Avena-type and Secale can be considered as „primary anthropogenic indicators“ for agricultural activity. Their appearance in the pollen diagrams is an indication for cereal crop cultivation in the landscape, accordingly, in the qualitative and quantitative composition of the flora in general. Another group of pollen taxa, which reflect a long lasting presence of human impact like ruderalization, animal husbandry, etc. on the landscape and are specific for a given area are considered as “secondary anthropogenic indicators“ (Behre, 1981; Faegri, Iversen, 1989).
The methodological approach for the selection of pollen taxa as anthropogenic indicators from pollen diagrams for Central Europe, the Mediterranean and Greece, in the assessment of human activity has been discussed in detail (Behre, 1981, 1988; Bottema, 1982; Bottema, Woldring, 1990, Brun 2011). To a large extent, the views of the above authors on „primary“ and „secondary anthropogenic indicators” can be accepted for pollen diagrams from Bulgaria (Marinova et al 2012). For our study region, a specific group of “secondary indicators” was defined (Plantago lanceolata, Rumex, Scleranthus, Urtica, Polygonum aviculare, Juniperus) (Bozilova, Tonkov, 1990). Quite often, considering the overall anthropogenic signals in the pollen assemblages, also pollen from Poaceae, Artemisia, Chenopodiaceae, and Cihoriaceae can be included in this group, indicating opening of the woody vegetation by human activities (Bottema, Woldring, 1990). Even Iversen (1947) pointed out that a sharp change in the arboreal/herb pollen ratio in favor of herb taxa can be considered as an indication of anthropogenic interference with natural vegetation. On the other hand, such a change in this ratio can also be caused by climate change especially in the first half of the Holocene.
Anthropogenic changes in vegetation can also be correlated with the charred particles that occur together with pollen grains in the studied sediments. The increased concentration of charcoal particles is considered evidence of natural or Man-made fires. The absolute number of microcharcoal particles counted on pollen slides is commonly used by paleoecologists to study the occurrence of past fires and their effects on ecosystems (Tinner, Hu, 2003). The relationship between the number of charred particles and the frequency of fires is complex, but it can be assumed that the latter is in general connected to the maxima of charred particles and fragments of subfossil wood in sediments (Tolonen, 1986).
In interpreting the palynological data of the anthropogenic impact on vegetation, the available archaeological information for the respective study area is essential. The territory of Southwestern Bulgaria is of special interest for studies on this topic as its natural vegetation has been influenced by anthropogenic activity since at least 8000 years ago, starting with the introduction of Neolithic farming and continuously increasing through millennia of human occupation.
The development of the praehistorical cultures in Southwestern Bulgaria, and particularly along the Struma river valley, is a key question in Balkan praehistory. The direct territorial connection of this region with the northern Aegean coast, and from there with Anatolia, has influenced the specific dynamics of cultural changes through all praehistorical periods (Pernicheva, 1995; Nikolov, 2007). According to archaeological research, the neolithization in Southwestern Bulgaria is an early phenomenon (Todorova et al., 2007) and it delineates the boundary between hunter-gatherer societies and the more developed societies of early farmers and pastoralists. An important aspect of the Neolithic was the cultivation of plants and breeding of animals, which in turn has caused lasting and significant changes in the surrounding vegetation.
The transition from appropriating to productive economy took place outside Europe, on the territory of the „fertile crescent“ - Palestine, Zagros, Mesopotamia (Zohary et al., 2012). At the end of the 8-th millennium BC the Neolithic was already fully developed as the beginning of the cultivation of cereals by selection from the wild growing ones in the region has begun between 10500 and 9250 14C yrs. BP (Tanno, Willcox, 2006). In the second half of the 7-th millennium BC part of the agricultural settlements were established on the Balkan peninsula.
The territory of Southwestern Bulgaria is considered also as one of the primary routes for the neolithization of Southeastern Europe, the Balkan peninsula in particular (Lichardus-Itten et al., 2006), which according to the available archaeological evidence and radiocarbon dates has started around 6200/6100 cal. BC (Görsdorf, Bojadziev, 1996; Bojadziev, 2009). In this sense the Struma river valley has served as a connecting link between Aegean Thrace and Central Europe. Along its length and north along the Iskar river, the main central European communication artery, the Danube river, was reached. At the end of the 7-th and the beginning of the 6-th millennium BC this was one of the main routes along which agriculture and animal husbandry from Anatolia has penetrated in Europe (Todorova et al., 2007; Krauβ et al., 2018).
The rapid spread of the neolithic culture and agriculture to Southeastern Europe can be viewed as a direct response to the abrupt climate change around 8200 cal. yrs. BP (6200 cal. BC), which led to important, irreversible and rapid changes in the then socio-economic and religious life of the population in significant areas of Western Asia and the Balkans. It should be noted that at that time many important archeological settlements either arose (Northwestern Anatolia, Greece, Bulgaria) or were abandoned (Cyprus). This abrupt climate fluctuation is thought to have caused a drought in the western parts of the Eastern Mediterranean, forcing early farmers to move from Anatolia to Macedonia and the fertile plains of Thessaly, as well as to Southwestern Bulgaria (Weninger et al., 2006, 2009).
The emergence of Early Neolithic settlements in the Struma river valley has occurred, according to the available absolute dates, about 300 years before the Karanovo-I culture in Thrace which is among the oldest in Europe. The Early Neolithic settlements of the Struma river valley were situated in the foothills of the mountains, between 400 and 650 m (Kovačevo, Topolnitsa, Brezhani, Ilindentsi, Bulgarčevo, Mursalevo, Kremenik, Galabnik, etc.) and, quite probably, their location reflected favorable climatic and ecological conditions (Todorova, Vaisov, 1989; Ivanova et al. 2018). They showed in a new light the social structure, livelihood and cult sphere of praehistoric Man not only in the region but also in Southeastern Europe as a whole.
During the second half of the Early Neolithic and during the Late Neolithic, large settlements appeared, located in the Struma river valley itself. At the end of the Late Neolithic and the beginning of the Early Eneolithic the settlements moved to naturally protected places (Grebska-Kulow, Kulow 2007). After this period, the number of the settlements decreased significantly and this trend continued during the Early Bronze Age.
Information about the Early Eneolithic (4750-4600 yrs. BC) is provided by the excavations in Slatino (Chohadziev, 2006) after which the number of settlements along the Struma river decreased during the Late Eneolithic.
Materials relatеd to the Early Bronze Age (3200-2500 cal. BC) were found along the Blatna river, Radomir region (Alexandrov, 1994) and at the site Kovačevo (Lichardus-Itten et al., 2002). The Late Bronze Age (1400-1200 cal. BC) is documented in several places along the middle and lower courses of the Struma river and archeological sites of special importance are Kamenska Čuka, Krasto and Marikostinovo. By that time, a second maximum was registered in terms of the number of settlements and human activity (Grebska-Kulowa, Kulow, 2007). Of great importance for the reconstruction of the praehistorical settlement history of the Struma region is the significant decrease of settlement activity established (Todorova et al., 2007). Between the Early Bronze Age and the beginning of the Late Bronze Age there is a chronological hiatus of about 600 years from which no particular sites and cultural content have yet been found (Bojadziev, 2007).
Paleoecological reconstructions from the region of Southwestern Bulgaria were used for inferring the human impact on the vegetation and landscape during the last 8 millennia. They are based on data from pollen analyses of lakes and peat bogs, plant macrofossils, archaeobotanical finds and radiocarbon dating (Bozilova, Tonkov, 2007). Against the background of the` archaeological situation, attention should be paid to some objective facts in the analysis of the presence of the two groups of anthropogenic indicators in the pollen diagrams. First, almost all investigated palynological sites are located above 1600 m, where the transport of pollen from cultivated cereals is very limited. Second, a significant part of these sites are relatively far from the nearest studied praehistorical settlements. Third, the time span covered and the chronological resolution of the pollen cores is variable, which sometimes makes it impossible to assess the anthropogenic impact from palynological data for earlier archaeological periods.
Pollen from primary (Cerealia-type, Triticum-type, Hordeum-type, Secale) and secondary (Plantago lanceolata, Rumex, Scleranthus, Urtica, Polygonum aviculare, Juniperus) anthropogenic indicators, confirming the economic activity of the local population, is present after 8000 cal. BC (10000 cal. yrs. BP) in the diagrams from Southwestern Bulgaria. There are two distinct periods in the presence of these indicators in the region. The first period from 8000/7300 to 4500/3600 cal. BC (10000/9300 to 6500/5600 cal. yrs. BP) is characterized by their sporadic participation in the vegetation. During the second period, which started after 2300/2000 cal. BC (4300/4000 cal. yrs. BP), the presence of anthropogenic pollen indicators is constant and significant (Fig.
Summary scheme for the presence of the anthropogenic indicators in the pollen diagrams from Southwestern Bulgaria (modified after Marinova et al., 2012).
During the first period single pollen grains from Secale were determined in the core from Lake Suho Ezero (Fig.
The radical change in the quantitative share of the anthropogenic pollen indicators has started in the second period after a gap of 1600-2000 years. The palynological evidence suggests both agriculture at the foothills of the mountains and the use of mountain meadows for seasonal grazing during the Late Bronze Age. The intensification of the anthropogenic activity coincides with the permanent establishment of Fagus and Picea in the Rila and Northern Pirin mountains, which supports the assumption that Man has helped the spread of these tree species by felling and fires (Feurdean et al., 2019).
In most of the sites during the second period a continuous occurrence and increase is observed for both groups of anthropogenic pollen indicators and microcharcoals as well. The data from pollen diagrams from different parts of the Rila Mountain revealed the steady presence of Cerealia-type pollen after c. 4000 cal. yrs. BP (2000 cal. BC), of Secale, Triticum-type and Hordeum-type pollen after 3000/2200 cal. yrs. BP (1000-200 cal. BC), alongside with a continuous presence of Plantago lanceolata pollen after c. 4500/4000 cal. yrs. BP (2500-2000 cal. BC). Numerous fragments of charcoal found just before 3770 cal. yrs. BP and c. 2800 cal. yrs. BP in the sediments of Lakes Ostrezki (Figs
From more recent historical times as a convincing example of diverse human activity can be mentioned the pollen diagram of Lake Suho Ezero-RM, above the Rila Monastery, in which a general increase of the anthropogenic indicators is observed, such as Plantago lanceolata, Rumex, Sleranthus, along with the presence of pollen from cultivated cereals (Cerealia-type, Triticum-type, Secale) (Fig.
The beginning of the expansion of Picea abies in the Northern Pirin Mountain coincides with the appearance of pollen from cultivated cereals (Cerealia-type, Triticum-type, Secale) and Scleranthus c. 1000/500 cal. BC (3000/2500 cal. yrs. BP) (Figs
In the diagrams from Osogovo Mountain the first indication of human presence is recorded between 3000 and 1500 cal. BC (5000-3500 cal. yrs. BP) when the anthropogenic influence on the vegetation is represented by finds of Triticum-type, Secale, Plantago lanceolata, Urtica, Rumex pollen (Fig.
Indications of human presence are not recorded from the pollen diagrams of Tschokljovo marsh, Konyavska Mountain, between 7000 and 5200 cal. BC (9000-7200 cal. yrs. BP). By that time, the mountain slopes surrounding the marsh were covered by mixed oak forests with Tilia, Corylus, Ulmus, some Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya carpinifolia and Carpinus betulus. On the higher mountain areas stands of Pinus and Abies occurred. For the the following time interval of c. 3000 years (5200-2000 cal. BC or 7200-4000 cal. yrs. BP) the most interesting feature, however, is the continuous presence of Juglans pollen, probably indicating its native distribution in this area rather than cultivation by the local population. Until the start of the Roman rule (pollen zone transition T-4/T-5, Figs
In the pollen diagram from Maleshevska Mountain three distinct periods of human impact can be recognized (Fig.
For the northern slopes of Belasitsa Mountain the most significant change in the vegetation cover caused by anthropogenic intervention started in historical times, after c. 2000 cal. yrs. BP, with the widespread cultivation of Castanea sativa for its valuable fruits and timber, synchronously with that of Platanus and Juglans. Pollen grains from cultivated cereals (Triticum-type, Secale) and the presence of secondary anthropogenic pollen indicators (Plantago lanceolata, Scleranthus, Cichoriaceae) are associated with human economic activities, especially during the Roman rule.
The palynological information from the above studied sites in Southwestern Bulgaria is convincing in terms of the practice of cattle breeding, mountain agriculture and enlargement of grazing areas through felling or fires, which have led to lowering of the upper timber-line. On the other hand, the paleoecological records considered provide little information on medieval land use either because of low resolution or absence of radiocarbon age control for this period.
The palynological data for the anthropogenic impact on the vegetation cover during the Neolithic, Eneolithic and Bronze Age are confirmed also by the paleoethnobotanical finds from praehistorical settlements in Southwestern Bulgaria (Marinova, 2006; Marinova et al., 2002, 2012, 2016, 2017; Popova, 2003, 2009; Popova, Marinova, 2007; Marinova, Thiebault, 2008; Marinova, Valamoti, 2014; Marinova, Ntinou, 2018, etc.) (Fig.
Map of the praehistorical settlements in Southwestern Bulgaria (Neolithic-Bronze epochs) with paleoethnobotanical remains studied (modified after Marinova et al., 2012)
Paleoethnobotanical materials from praehistorical settlements in Southwestern Bulgaria (Neolithic-Bronze epochs).
| SETTLEMENT | PERIOD | CHRONOLOGY (cal. BC) |
WOOD | CULTIVATED PLANTS | REFERENCE |
| Kovačevo | Early Neolithic | 6159-5630 | Quercus, Cornus, Alnus, Pinus nigra/sylvestris, Pomoideae, Carpinus, Corylus avellana | Triticum monococcum, Triticum dicoccum, Hordeum vulgare, Lens culinaris, Lathyrus sativus/cicera, Vicia ervilia, Pisum sativum | Marinova (2006) |
| Galabnik | Early Neolithic | 6100-5700 | Quercus, Rosaceae, Pinaceae, Acer, Fagus, Carpinus, Pinus sp., Cornus mas Buxus, etc. | Triticum monococcum, Triticum dicoccum, Hordeum vulgare, Lens culinaris, Cicer arietinum | Marinova et al. (2002) |
| Kremenik | Early and Middle Neolithic | 5720-5620 | Quercus, Fraxinus, Cornus, Alnus, Corylus, Fagus, Euvonymus, Pinus sp., Prunus | Triticum monococcum, Triticum dicoccum, Hordeum vulgare, Lens culinaris, Pisum sativum, Vicia sp., Vicia ervilia | Marinova et al. (2002) |
| Vaksevo | End of the Early Neolithic |
5870-5730 | Quercus | Triticum monococcum, Triticum dicoccum, Hordeum vulgare | Popova (2001) |
| Balgarčevo | End of the Early Neolithic |
5640-5430 | Quercus sp., Pinus sp., Cornus, Juniperus, Salix, Populus, Fraxinus, Ulmus, Prunoideae | Triticum monococcum, Triticum dicoccum, Triticum aestivum/durum, Hordeum vulgare, Pisum sativum, Lens culinaris, Vicia ervilia, Cicer arietinum, Linum usitatissimum | Marinova (2017) |
| Drenkovo | Late Neolithic | No 14C dates | Triticum monococcum, Triticum dicoccum, Hordeum vulgare, Lens culinaris, Lathyrus sativus/cicer | Kreuz et al. (2005) | |
| Mursalevo | Early and Late Neolithic | No 14C dates | Triticum monococcum, Triticum dicoccum, Hordeum vulgare, Lens culinaris, Lathyrus sativus/cicera, Vicia ervilia, Pisum sativum, Linum usitatissimum | Marinova et al. (2016) | |
| Topolnitsa | Early Eneolithic | Quercus, Rosaceae, Pinus sp. | Triticum monococcum, Triticum dicoccum, Hordeum vulgare, Lens culinaris, Vicia ervilia | Valamoti (2007) Popova (2009) |
|
| Slatino | Early Eneolithic | 4650-4500 | Triticum monococcum, Triticum dicoccum, Hordeum vulgare, Vicia ervilia, Lens culinaris | Marinova et al. (2002) | |
| Kamenska Čuka | Late Bronze | 2471-2292 | Quercus, Pinus sylvestris, Abies, Juniperus, Ulmus, Fraxinus, Rosa | Triticum monococcum, Triticum dicoccum, Hordeum vulgare, Panicum milliaceum, Lens culinaris, Vicia ervilia | Popova (1998) |
The Neolithic agriculture was well developed and relied mainly on Triticum monococcum (einkorn) and Triticum dicoccum (emmer). The wide distribution of Triticum monococcum was due to its adaptability to different environmental conditions. Triticum dicoccum was also present in large quantities but was rarely predominant in the study region. Individual seeds whose morphological features correspond to those of Triticum aestivum/durum were also found. In addition to wheat, barley was also grown in smaller quantities, mainly Hordeum vulgare var. vulgare, but also Hordeum vulgare var. nudum. The single finds of Panicum milliaceum (millet) in the settlement Drenkovo (Kreuz et al., 2005) raise the question of its possible cultivation, but in the view of recent large scale studies involving numerous radiocarbon dates suggest that such singe finds in Neolithic layers have intrusive character (Filipovič et al., 2020).
Along with cereals, there were various accompanying weed species such as Bromus sp., Polygonum aviculare, Setaria viridis, Phleum phleoides, Galium sp., Verbena officinalis, Centaurea sp., etc. Legumes were second in importance, mainly Lens culinaris, Lathyrus sativus and Vicia ervilia. Of interest are the finds of Cicer arietinum. The plant is part of the Near Eastern crop assemblage (Tanno, Willcox, 2006a) but almost unknown so far according to paleobotanical data outside Levant and Anatolia. Its presence in these settlements proves that it came together with the whole Anatolian complex of cultivated plants on the territory of the country (Marinova, Popova, 2008).
For the subsequent Eneolithic period the archaeobotanical evidence suggests certain continuity of the crop spectra with some dominance of einkorn and emmer. However, it seems that in the spectrum of leguminous crops most important was the drought resistant Vicia ervilia as visible from the site Galabnik (Marinova et al., 2002). Of interest is also to mention that at this site a storage find of Chenopodium seeds was recoverd pointing to use also of wild plant ressouces (famine food?) probably from wetlands in the surroundings.
Of particular interest for paleobotanical research is the finding of charred or mineralized wood in archaeological sites, which is usually associated with its use for various purposes – primary firewood but also building material, tools, etc. It was almost always collected from the surrounding area and thus provides valuable information about the woody flora.
Since most of the praehistorical settlements in Southwestern Bulgaria were located at relatively low altitudes (300-800 m), the analysis of wood from their cultural layers complements the knowledge of the vegetation at the foothills of the mountains. These studies provide direct information on the use of wood in the settlements and clarify the importance of the lower mountain belt as a valuable source of plant material for various purposes, including leaf fodder.
In the materials from the Neolithic settlements such as Galabnik (Marinova et al., 2002), Kovačevo (Marinova, Thiebault, 2008), Topolnitsa (Popova, 2009), Balgarčevo (Marinova, 2017), Ilindentsi (Marinova, Ntinou, 2018) wood of Quercus predominates, which is a confirmation of the widespread distribution of oak forests in the lower mountain belt during the climatic optimum of the Holocene. There are also numerous fragments of wood from Rosaceae (Pomoideae, Prunoideae), followed by those of Cornus mas, Corylus, Acer, Ulmus, Fraxinus, Pinus sp. This is a general tendency of the Neolithic woodland use observed for the broader study region (Marinova, Ntinou, 2018).
The find of wood from Fagus in Galabnik, Pernik region, is especially important, as according to palynological data the presence of beech in the vegetation of Southwestern Bulgaria c. 8000-7500 cal. yrs. BP (6000-5500 cal. BC) was sporadic. Fragments of wood from Salix, Populus and Alnus prove that these species were an integral part of the riparian plant communities and were used by humans. The origin of the wood from Buxus in the Neolithic layers remains unclear (Marinova et al., 2002).
Abundant archaeozoological and scarce botanical materials were found in the cultural layers of final Early Neolithic to Early Bronze Аgе of the praehistorical settlement Vaxevo located at 600 m in the southeastern foothills of the Osogovo Mountain. The bones from cattle, sheep, goats and pigs suggest that stock-breeding was a significant part of the human economy (Chohadziev et al., 2001). The evidence of agriculture from this site shows several storages of cultivated cereals dominated by Hordeum vulgare and Triticum monococcum. The Thracian and Roman periods of occupation witnessed further development of agriculture, vine-growing, stock-breeding and ore-mining. The forests served as an important source for wood used for construction purposes, heating and metallurgy. The local economy flourished as the Romans introduced advanced methods for the cultivation of the fields (Bozilova et al., 1994).
The wood from the Late Bronze age in the settlements Kamenska Čuka (Popova, 1998) and Koprivlen (Popova, Marinova, 2007) has almost the same composition and the finds from Abies, Pinus sylvestris, Juniperus deserve attention, thus confirming the palynological data on the distribution of coniferous forests of Abies and Pinus in the western border mountains during the mid-Holocene.
With the introduction of iron and the growing demand for timber, many local tribes moved to mountainous areas. This movement is established in the pollen diagrams from the Osogovo-Belasitsa mountain range c. 3000 cal. yrs. BP (1000 cal. BC), when the oak forests were disturbed and the coniferous woods were gradually replaced by beech forests.
The changes in the landscape during the Roman rule and the Medieval period reflect regional environmental features and were forced by the diversification of the anthropogenic activity. The paleoethnobotanical materials from the Iron Age, the Antiquity and the Middle Ages for Southwestern Bulgaria are very scarce against the background of the abundant archaeological information. In this aspect of interest are the crop (Triticum aestivum/durum, Triticum monococcum, Triticum dicoccum, Hordeum vulgare, Panicum milliaceum, Secale cereale, Avena sativa, Lens culinaris, Pisum sativum, Vicia ervilia, Vitis vinifera) and wood charcoal (Abies, Pinus sylvestris, Quercus sp., Fagus, Corylus, Fraxinus) assemblages found in the settlement Koprivlen dated predominantly to the Late Iron Age (Popova, 2003).
10. Conclusions
The paleobotanical and paleoecological research on the postglacial history of vegetation in Southwestern Bulgaria with the application of several research methods allows the presentation of some general issues and conclusions. They are based on the trends and patterns in the development of vegetation, climate changes and anthropogenic impact in the study area, as well as on some specific regional features. These scientific data expand the information about this region as an integral part of the country and the Balkan peninsula in terms of past environmental changes.
The reconstruction of the vegetation cover in Southwestern Bulgaria during the last c. 18000 years reveals some general characteristics influenced also by the global climate changes after the Last Glacial Maximum (23000-19000 cal. yrs. BP). Indications for climate warming were established simultaneously in ice cores from Greenland and Antarctica as early as about 23000 cal. yrs. BP and this trend has intensified after 19000 cal. yrs. BP (Blunier, Brook, 2001) in synchronity with the increase in solar insolation in the northern hemisphere and the onset of melting of ice sheets with subsequent sea level rise (Yokohama et al., 2000). The isotope signal from Greenland shows a clear warming trend around 14700 cal. yrs. BP (Labeyrie et al., 2003) which correlates with a significant retreat and shrinking of the area of the mountain glaciers in the Alps (Husen, 1989).
The assumption for the beginning of climate change at the termination of the Late Pleniglacial (24000-14600 cal. yrs BP) in Southwestern Bulgaria is confirmed by the pollen diagrams from the Northwestern Rila Mountain, the area of the Seven Rila lakes. The gradual enlargement of groups of Pinus, as well as the appearance of Juniperus, Betula and Alnus within large areas occupied by herb vegetation, serve as evidence of climate improvement at the onset of the lateglacial interstadial Bölling/Alleröd. The same trend is observed in the pollen diagrams from Lake Ribno Banderishko and other glacial lakes in the Northern Pirin Mountain. Moreover, the paleobotanical data compared with the deposition of silty clay in the lakes suggest a much earlier retreat of the circus glaciers above 2300-2400 m similar to the deglaciation in the Western Pyrenees (Jalut et al., 1992). However, the climate at the end of the Pleniglacial and during the Lateglacial has remained cold and dry, with temperatures of 5-7°C lower than today.
A comparison with several pollen records from the northern part of the Balkans in Romania which also span the terminal part of the Pleniglacial (18000-14700 cal. yrs. BP) suggests that the landscapes in the Carpathian region were likely covered by open forest mixed with steppe-tundra vegetation. The main tree taxa were of boreal (Picea abies, Pinus, Juniperus) and cool temperate type (Alnus, Betula, Salix). Scattered pollen percentages of temperate deciduous trees (Ulmus, Quercus, Fraxinus, Corylus avellana) were also recorded. The steppe-tundra assemblages consisted of herbs growing in open landscape under dry conditions, and tundra elements composed of arctic herbs and shrubs that occurred where the conditions were too cold for trees to grow (Feurdean, Tantau, 2017).
In the highest parts of the Carpathians, Rila and Northern Pirin mountains near the glaciers there was probably alpine tundra. Below it, the areas were occupied by open herb vegetation dominated by Artemisia and Chenopodiaceae, along with various species of Poaceae, Asteraceae, Apiaceae, shrubs of Ephedra and Juniperus (Jalut et al., 2005). The microrefugia for different thermophilous tree species such as Quercus, Corylus, Ulmus, Tilia, Carpinus betulus were located in suitable habitats at altitudes below 1000 m with sufficient moisture, relatively well-developed soils and protected southern exposures (Bennet et al., 1991; Willis et al., 2000).
By that time, the presence of pollen from Quercus, Carpinus orientalis/Ostrya, Carpinus betulus, Ulmus, Tilia, Corylus, Pinus peuce, Fagus, Abies in records from the mountains of Northwestern Greece and Southern Bulgaria (Western Rhodopes) indicates the existence of glacial refugia at mid-low altitudes (Bottema, 1974; Tzedakis, 2004; Tonkov et al., 2014).
According to the regional radiocarbon chronology the plant paleosuccession in Southwestern Bulgaria for the last 18000-15000 years comprises several well-defined stages. The first stage refers to the termination of the Pleniglacial and the Lateglacial, and the rest are related to the Holocene. During the Lateglacial (15000-11600 cal. yrs. BP) in the Rila and the Northern Pirin mountains open herb vegetation of “mountain-steppe” character dominated by Artemisia-Chenopodiaceae-Poaceae and various cold-resistant and heliophilous species from Achillea, Centaurea, Rumex, Thalictrum, Galium, Dianthus, Brassicaceae, etc. was widely distributed at mid-high altitudes. This vegetation pattern included also stands of pines (Pinus mugo, Pinus sylvestris, Pinus peuce) and shrubland of Juniperus-Ephedra, which partly expanded during the lateglacial interstadial complex Bölling/Alleröd (15000-12800 cal. yrs. BP). Isolated groups/populations of coniferous (Abies, Picea abies) and deciduous (Quercus, Fagus, Tilia, Carpinus, etc.) trees have survived the harsh glacial conditions in sheltered habitats with favorable microclimatic and ecological conditions for their growth.
The last pronounced deterioration of the climate during the Lateglacial and return to glacial conditions, i.e. the Younger Dryas stadial, after 12800 cal. yrs. BP has lasted for 1100-1300 years. It was characterized by a re-advance of the „mountain-steppe“ vegetation with dominants Artemisia, Chenopodiaceae and Poaceae, as well as with retreat of moisture demanding trees to lower altitudes. It should be noted that the first macroremains of Pinus peuce and Betula appeared in the fossil assemblages from the Rila and the Northern Pirin mountains at altitudes above 1800 m.
The onset of the Holocene was characterized by a quick increase of the average annual temperatures with 5-6°C in the course of several decades (von Grafenstein et al., 1998). In the high mountains of Southwestern Bulgaria the rapid amelioration of the climate has led to a significant reduction and retreat of the herb „mountain-steppe“ vegetation. The initial afforestation on the mountain slopes lasted from 11600 to 8000/7900 cal. yrs. BP and within this stage two phases could be distinguished. During the first one (11600-10200/9900 cal. yrs. BP) pioneer communities of Betula became widespread between 1900 and 2200 m on a still poor, skeletal soil cover. These communities were rather sparse and mixed with stands of Pinus mugo, Pinus sylvestris, Pinus peuce and Juniperus, confirmed also by the plant macroremains determined. The pollen data reveal the distribution at lower altitudes of mixed oak forests with significant participation of Tilia, Ulmus, Fraxinus and Acer. These trees, together with Corylus, have reached their maximal development during the second phase after 10200/9900 cal. yrs. BP. In the Early Holocene this vegetation pattern has persisted for a long period of nearly 4000 years in the the Rila and the Northern Pirin mountains.
The most significant transformation in the vegetation composition in Southwestern Bulgaria is associated with the Holocene climatic optimum, when the general trend of warming reached its culmination. This time interval generally covers the period 8000-5000 cal. yrs. BP. The results of physical and chemical analyses of ice cores from Greenland (GRIP, GISP2 and NGRIP) revealed that the temperatures were 2-3oC higher than today, as well as the subsequent trend towards cooling after 5000 cal. yrs. BP was gradual (Stuiver et al., 1995; Johnsen et al., 1997; NGRIP Members, 2004). The climatic optimum was preceded by a short-term sharp deterioration of the climate c. 8200 cal. yrs. BP (8.2 ky event) or 7400 14C yrs. BP, which was the most pronounced cooling during the Holocene in the northern hemisphere with a duration of 160 years according to data from ice cores in Greenland (Alley, Ágústsdóttir, 2005). The manifestation of this climatic oscillation on the European continent, including the Balkans, was not one-way. As a direct consequence of it the data from pollen and plant macrofossil analyses in Southwestern Bulgaria after 8000 cal. yrs. BP reflect wide distribution of conifers displacing the birch and oak forests.
Also, the spread of the Neolithic culture and agriculture in Southwestern Bulgaria from Anatolia can be considered as a response to the climatic event 8.2 ky, as in this region of the Balkans the ecological conditions have proved favorable for the socio-economic life of the Neolithic settlers (Weninger et al ., 2006).
During the climatic optimum (8100/7900-5400/5200 cal. yrs. BP) a coniferous belt was shaped in the Rila and the Northern Pirin mountains composed of Pinus sylvestris, Pinus peuce and Abies in the conditions of general climate change towards cooler summers, milder winters and increased air and soil humidity. The upper timber-line has climbed higher than today, which was evidenced by the plant macrofossils found. Above the coniferous forest belt on rocky places and on poorer soils Betula has retained its pioneering role and the groups of Pinus mugo have become more compact. The palynological and macrofossil data from the Osogovo-Belasitsa mountain range and the Konyavska Mountain also reveal that after 8000/7000 cal. yrs. BP a vast coniferous belt was shaped dominated by Abies, Pinus sylvestris, Pinus nigra, and below it developed mixed oak forests.
In the first half of the Late Holocene (5400/5200-3000 cal. yrs. BP) the most important changes in the vegetation cover of the high mountains Rila and Pirin are related to the final establishment of Fagus sylvatica and Picea abies, alongside with the maximal distribution of Pinus peuce, Pinus sylvestris, Pinus mugo, and the commencement of Abies decline. In the lower western border mountains Fagus sylvatica has gradually started to gain importance at the expense of the coniferous woods, thus shaping monodominant or mixed communities with Abies and Carpinus betulus predominantly on northern slopes in the transitional zone between the deciduous and coniferous vegetation belts.
During the second half of the Late Holocene after 3000/2800 cal. yrs. BP, in the conditions of more humid and cooler climate, the modern vertical distribution of vegetation in Southwestern Bulgaria was established, characterized by the pulsating invasion of Picea abies in the coniferous belts of the Rila and Pirin mountains, reaching its first expansion maximum c. 2800 cal. yrs. BP. In many places Picea abies has formed the upper timber-line together with Pinus peuce and Pinus sylvеstris. A significant retreat and reduction is established for the communities of Abies and their distribution was limited in the lower part of the coniferous belt between 1400 and 1600 m.
The destructive changes in the natural vegetation of the Rila and Pirin mountains were intensified in historical time, when the areas occupied by Pinus sylvestris, Picea abies, Pinus peuce and Abies were seriously affected. In many places the upper timber-line has been artificially lowered with the opening of new terrains, subsequently occupied by a variety of herbs and used for pasture land. The disturbances in the vegetation are confirmed by the significant presence of the anthropogenic pollen indicators and the reduced number of macrofossils from Pinus sp., Picea abies and Juniperus.
In the Osogovo-Belasitsa mountain range the wide distribution of Fagus sylvatica has commenced on the place of the coniferous woods, which appeared synchronously in time with the enlargement of Picea abies in the Rila and Pirin mountains. The expansion of beech was assisted by the human economic activities such as felling of the conifers for timber and other uses, and for acquiring of new areas for seasonal grazing on the slopes and the rounded ridges. In the last 1000 years the deforestation in the Osogovo Mountain has led to the progressive reduction of the remnants of the coniferous communities. In Belasitsa Mountain the most significant change in the vegetation cover on the northern slopes has occurred immediately before 1760 cal. yrs. BP when the communities of Fagus sylvatica were seriously destroyed and the upper timber-line was lowered. The palynological evidence for the last centuries shows a decline of the areas occupied by the beech forests and an increase in the presence of Carpinus orientalis, Ostrya carpinifolia, and partly of Quercus and Corylus at lower altitudes.
The impact of the climate cooling during the Little Ice Age (1550-1850 AD) on the vegetation cover in Southwestern Bulgaria is manifested by the last pulsation of the spruce forests in the Rila and Pirin mountains, when they have enlarged in the altitudinal range 1600-1400 m, mainly on slopes with northern and derivative exposure. According to the palynological evidence, the last expansion of beech in the Osogovo-Belasitsa mountain range about 300 years ago was favored by this climate change and the local disturbances in the forest ecosystems.
The changes in the natural vegetation cover in the study area were also assisted by the increasing human activities since the Late Bronze Age such as crop cultivation, animal husbandry, tree felling and fires in order to enlarge the pasture land.
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