Changes of biodiversity and species composition of Molinia meadow depending on use method

This paper evaluates the influence of the use of methods of Molinia meadows in eastern Poland on changes in its biodiversity and species composition. Research was carried out in 2006-10 on Molinia meadows near Uściwierz lake, located in the Pojezierze Łęczyńsko-Włodawskie (Lake District). The studied complex was classified to [Selino carvifoliae-Molinietum] meadows. Meadows were used in a specific method: 1. 1-cut meadow (June), 2. 1-cut meadow (June) + grazing (August), 3. abandoned meadow (since 2000). The above-mentioned methods of use caused the transformation of the typical structure of Selino-Molinietum meadow. I observed the initial succession of forest associations with a large share of Salix rosmarinifolia and Betula pubescens on unused meadow. The highest share of the characteristic species of the Selino-Molinietum association was characterized by abandoned meadow.