The structure of ecosystem and the forage production in the Kostilata subalpine grassland of Theodoriana

The study conducted in Kostilata alpine grassland of Theodoriana, located on the Tzoumerka Mountains, 80 km northeast of Arta town. Sixty sampling sites were randomly selected in order to analyze ecosystem structure and to determine soil characteristics and forage production. The flora analysis was based on the method of points and plant species determination – identification was carried out using Mountain Flora of Greece I and II and the Flora Europaea. Main soil characteristics were determined from 60 topsoil (0-30 cm) soil samples and forage production measurement was done according to method of harvest. The results of soil analysis ((49.5% sand, 36,0% silt and 14,5% clay) showed that soils are characterized as sandy loam with acid pH reaction (5,6) and rich in organic matter (6,76%). Forage production was relatively low (1384 kg/ha) dominated by grasses (65,3%), followed by forbs (25,0%) and legumes (9,7%). Since Kostilata subalpine grassland area is distinguished by its diverse landscape, the application of rational grazing is required in order to sustain the grassland ecosystem.