Kosheliev V. Ornithocomplexes as Elements of Biogeocenoses of the South of Ukraine: diversity, structure, protection

In the dissertation, the principles of classification of ornithocomplexes as a structural element of biogeocenoses and an integral part of regional ornithofauna are developed. The regularities of the formation of ornithocomplexes are established and approaches to the analysis of the ecological, taxonomic, and zoogeographic structure of ornithocomplexes are substantiated. Complementarity of neighboring ornithocomplexes within biogeocenoses was found. The role of topical, trophic, and fabric consortive connections for reed beds and mulberries has been established. A procedure has been developed for assessing biodiversity depending on the area covered. Indicator species were identified for each type of biotope, taking into account their morphological, environmental, and ethological characteristics. The importance of indicator species for assessing the spatial organization of ornithocomplexes is disclosed. Methods have been developed for assessing the diversity of ornithocomplexes by constructing a GLM – model. New threats to birds are revealed, approaches to improving their protection, monitoring and abundance management are developed.