EKOLOŠKA KARAKTERIZACIJA VEGETACIJE NASELJA BLAGAJ / ECOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF THE VEGETATION IN BLAGAJ AREA
By the characteristics of its origin, appearance of certain elements of valley relief, as well as by its basic shape and geographical position, the Neretva valley is the unique morphological phenomenon in the central Dinarids. Seasonal phytocenological tests have been performed on several sites in Blagaj using Blaun-Blanquet method. During the field visits we have established that there is a large number of various plant species (86) in this area, belonging to different systematic categories, especially to autochthonic therapeutic, edible, aromatic and endemic plant species. On the basis of bioindicator values of the vascular flora in regard to the vegetation and eco-system degradation level (primary P, secundary S, and tertiary T bioindicators), it has been established that the vegetation in Blagaj area is endangered due to numerous problems caused by human activities. Most of the human activities lead towards rapid extinction of rare and ecologically specialized species as well as towards the fragmentation of their habitats. The level of manifestation of such activities brings into question the very survival of these interesting habitats. This paper offers data about the present condition of eco-system in Blagaj area along with proposals for measures to preserve and manage it sustainably.