Analysis of Floristic Diversity and Plant Dynamism at Meke Maar Wetland (Karapınar/Konya/Turkey)

Abstract

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine floristic diversity and succescional properties of Meke Maar  which is located in Konya Closed Basin and the surrounding area. Meke Maar is located 8 km southeast of the center of town Karapinar (Konya). The long axis of maar is located 1300 -1500 m-dimensional and Meke Maar Lake is in the middle of Maar. Meke Maar  is one of 15 wetlands are protected by the Ramsar agreement. Research area is located within the boundaries of Irano-Turanian phytogeographical region and is under the influence of semi-arid very cold type of Mediterranean climate.

In the field survey performed in 2012 to determine the floristic structure and to evaluate successional stages, the plant samples were periodicaly collected and some records based on the observations were taken. 302 species and infraspecific taxa belonging to 65 families were identified based on field studies and literature reviews. The richest genus of the area in species number is Bromus and Centaurea. 52 species in the area of Irano-Turanian origin form the majority. 27 endemic plant species have been identified in the area and endemism rate of the area is 9%. This rate is well below the average of flora of Turkey. The most important reason is that the area is under the heavy pressure of agricultural and grazing to a large extent.

As a result of over-grazing on the vast plains surrounding of Meke Maar, floristic structure is corrupted and dominant species such as Peganum, zootic climax is occurred. Konya Closed Basin including Meke Maar as a result of wrong agricultural activities and savage irrigation, the pressure on groundwater in the basin has increased and the water level has dropped 200 m in most places.

Successional progress has taken place very fast with anthropogenic effects in Meke Maar  and in actual it exhibits Reed-Reed lake stage. As a result of the picnic activities in an unconscious manner around Meke Maar, the deformation of the habitat occured as well as aesthetic pollution. To control of anthropogenic effects in Meke Maar, it is necessary to stop the succesional progress and to maintain the quality of wetland ecosystem, primarily protect of water resources of wetland is a must.