Structural characteristics of pine stands and analysis of the invasive spread of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) near the settlement of Dashiv, Vinnytsia region

One of the key problems of modern ecology and forestry is the spread of black locust, which leads to the transformation of forest ecosystems and loss of biodiversity. The aim of the study was to determine the structural features of secondary pine stands and analyse the invasive spread of Robinia pseudoacacia L. The study was conducted in 2025 in a pine forest in Vinnytsia region using the Braun-Blanquet method with an assessment of the stratification and frequency of occurrence of species; additionally, for black locust, an analysis of the age structure of the population was performed based on trunk diameter and plant height. The survey was carried out at the forest edge and in the inner areas of the forest. It was found that the species composition of the forest stand is spatially differentiated. The central part of the community was formed mainly by Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.), while black locust dominated the eastern forest edge, forming tree, undergrowth and shrub layers. The presence of all age groups of black locust was detected, from seedlings to old generative individuals, indicating its stable regeneration and high invasive potential. The species is absent in the inner areas of the forest, which is due to the dense canopy of autochthonous trees and competition with the native flora. The results obtained indicate the local, ecotonal nature of the black locust invasion, concentrated in the edge parts of the forest stand adjacent to agricultural landscapes. The presence of numerous young generations is a sign of invasive pressure, which may lead to a gradual expansion of the population. The results obtained can be used in forestry practice to monitor invasive species and develop measures to preserve biodiversity