Bioecological Characteristics, Distribution, and Phytopathological Significance of Wood-Decaying Macromycetes in the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic

Abstract

The Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic is distinguished by its rich flora and diverse ecological conditions. Wood-decaying macromycetes occurring in this region exert a significant impact on the stability of forest and park ecosystems. They mainly belong to the class Basidiomycetes, parasitizing tree trunks and causing “white rot” and “brown rot” processes. This shortens the lifespan of trees, reduces productivity in orchards, and disrupts the biological balance of ecosystems. During expeditions conducted between 2008 and 2025, macroscopic and microscopic analyses of samples collected from various botanical-geographical zones revealed species belonging to the genera Phellinus, Polyporus, Ganoderma, Fomes, and Schizophyllum. Observations indicate that Ganoderma applanatumand Schizophyllum commune possess a wide substrate spectrum and are more broadly distributed in ecosystems, whereas Fomes fomentariuspredominantly occurs on willow and poplar. These differences play a crucial role in phytosanitary risk assessment. The phytopathological significance of macromycetes lies in their ability to weaken the mechanical strength of wood, reduce productivity, and cause premature drying of trees. Insufficient awareness of preventive measures exacerbates the problem. Therefore, regular monitoring, sanitary cuttings, preparation of risk maps, and application of molecular-genetic identification methods are essential. Thus, the conducted studies demonstrate that the investigation of wood-decaying macromycetes in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic is of great scientific and practical importance both for maintaining ecological stability and for increasing agricultural productivity.