Comparative analysis of some parameters of phytocenoses of natural steppe areas and the «Artificial Steppe» experimental area of the Donetsk Botanical Garden

Some indicators of phytocenoses were investigated in the artificial steppe laid out 50 years ago in the area of the Donetsk Botanical Garden in comparison to those of different variants of natural steppe areas (petrophytic, typical and cretaceous) of Donbass. A comparative analysis has shown significant differences between the artificial steppe and natural areas in terms of species diversity and species saturation. Floristic diversity of the artificial steppe site is less compared to natural sites, but its species saturation is on the contrary greater. This fact is associated with the man-induced nature of vegetation formation in this area, that confirms its functional purpose – to be a pool for the conservation and reproduction of steppe plant species.