issn 1392-3714

Scientific research in the national botanic garden of in 2006-2011

Ludmila Vishnevska National Botanic Garden of Latvia, Miera Str. 1, , LV-2169; e-mail: [email protected]

Abstract For the collection amount and taxonomic identity, as well as the area of scientific and popular scientific activities, NBG is a leading botanic garden in Baltic states (Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania), estimating collections of c. 15 000 taxa in area of 129 ha. In Latvia NBG is the main institution where purposefully ex situ collections of rare and endangered plants of Latvian flora are developed and wide range conservation-related studies are undertaken. Cultivars of large-fruit cranberries and high blueberries introduced and bred in the NBG and their growing technologies are implemented in Latvian national economy. Cultivars of park roses bred in NBG are widespread in Latvian gardens, as well as in North Europe and North America. NBG is environmental education and information agency; it promotes rational and sustainable use of nature resources. Research work in the National Botanic Garden is developed in tree main directions: research and gene found conservation of open area plants (about 60% of scientific activities); plant biological diversity conservation in vitro (30%); research and gene found conservation of indoor plants (10%). The main priority for the nearest 3 years is building of ex situ conservation centre. Key words: National Botanic Garden (NGB) of Latvia, scientific research.

Introduction According to international classification (Wyse Jackson, Sutherland, 2000), NBG is multifunctional botanic garden – an institution keeping scientifically documented living plant collections with the goal to use them for the biological diversity conservation, scientific research, professional education and community information in areas of environment protection and gardening. NBG represents Latvia in

122 Ludmila Vishnevska these areas of activities and is one of the scientific and cultural symbols of the country. NBG collections have a great potential as a base for the scientific research in plant taxonomy, introduction, biological diversity conservation, breeding and other directions. For the collection amount and taxonomic identity, as well as the area of scientific and popular scientific activities, NBG is a leading botanic garden in Baltic states (Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania), and among the most noteworthy in Northeast Europe; estimating collections of c. 15 000 taxa in area of 129 ha. For comparison, the world’s largest botanic garden – Royal Botanic Garden Kew (UK) reports 28 689 taxa in 104 ha, while the second one in UK, RBG Edinburgh – 15 321 taxa in 32 ha (data from http://www.bgci.org/garden_search.php). NBG collections have great potential as a base for research in plant taxonomy, introduction, biological diversity conservation, breeding and other purposes. In Latvia NBG is the main institution where purposefully ex situ collections of rare and endangered plants of Latvian flora are developed and wide range conservation-related studies are undertaken, in accordance with the Global Strategy for Plant Conservation (GSPC) for 2002-2010 and 2011-2020. The social impact of the National Botanic Gardens activities Technology transfer and innovations: Cultivars of large-fruit (American) cranberries and high blueberries introduced and bred in the NBG and their growing technologies are implemented in Latvian national economy. Seven from the 21 cultivars of park roses bred in NBG are widespread in Latvian gardens, as well as in North Europe and North America. Environmental education, tourism and recreation: NBG is environmental education and information centre, it promotes rational and sustainable use of nature resources. There are worked out different educational programs in biological diversity conservation, as well as in practical gardening. Special thematic excursions guided by NBG specialists about perspective untraditional berry, medicinal and spice plants are popular. The “Rose Days” and “Researcher’s Night” events, as well as NBG thematic exhibitions in the Natural History Museum and stands in the different other exhibitions, are brightly attended. NBG

123 botanikos sodo raštai / Scripta Horti Botanici proposes workshops for pupils guided with the certified environmental guides. The NBG informative infrastructure – cognitive trails with information panels, homepage, different informative and educational materials and other qualified NBG specialists are regularly publishing popular scientific papers and books, taking part in the radio and TV broadcasts, consulting journalists and other interested persons, as well as delivering lectures about different gardening and environmental education themes. NBG is known also as the first source of plant material for different purposes. NBG is noteworthy tourism object in Riga region. About 29 000 visitors are coming to the garden during the year. In co-operation with the Salaspils local government diverse cultural events are organized in the territory of NBG. The traditional plant markets belong to the biggest activities of such kind in Latvia. Dendrology Society of Latvia, Society of Lilly breeders “Lillium Balticum” and Latvian Society of Plant Nursery are acting by the NBG. Keeping of state asset: NBG is keeper of especially protected area “National Botanic Garden of Latvia”, it manages the territory of Salaspils town with common area 129 hectares. In this area especially protected dendrological plantations, plant collections and expositions, as well as buildings and constructions, engineering structures and hydraulic facilities, are placed (Leimane et al., 2008). Research work in the National Botanic Garden is developed in three main directions: A. Research and gene found conservation of open area plants (about 60% of scientific activities): 1. Research and conservation of introduced woody plants The research on woody plant taxonomy, ecology, introduction and acclimatization is carried out. The dendrological collection (c. 4500 taxa) is created and maintained for this purpose. Experts of Dendroflora Department undertake inventory and research of Latvian parks and other dendrological objects. Using the experience obtained, scientifically based management measures for conservation and protection of Latvian cultural and historical heritage – the old manor parks, alleys and monumental trees of local and alien species – are developed. Scientific publications present many year scientific

124 Ludmila Vishnevska observations on results of introduction and acclimatization of woody plants, as well as new uses for prosperous woody plant forms in the NBG, Rucava Arboretum, and other dendrological collections in Latvia (Bice et al., 2006a, 2006b, 2006c; Bice et al., 2007a, 2007b, 2007c, 2007d; Evarts-Bunders et al., 2008; Laivinš et al., 2009; Bojare, Svilāns, 2010; Strode, 2010; Roze et al., 2010; Roze, Strode, 2010; Roze, 2011a, 2011b, 2011c; Bondare, Knape, 2011; Bondare et al., 2011; Roze et al., 2011a). 2. Research and conservation of native flora The scientific management of Latvian rare and endangered plant species collection ex situ is carried out. Scientists are developing research on long-term plant species adaptation to ex situ conditions. In the area of NBG the habitat models with rare and protected native plant species are created. The morphological, physiological and ecological studies of native woody plants in situ are carried out to create a theoretical basis for biologically diverse collection ex situ. Scientific publications present the results of rare and endangered plant species studies and conservation opportunities ex situ, as well as preliminary results of NBG native flora studies (Strode, Roze, 2009a, 2009b; Kļaviņa, Šmite, 2009; Belogrudova, Jakobsone, 2010; Jakobsone, 2009; Jakobsone et al., 2010a, 2010b; Belogrudova et al., 2010; Priede, Kļaviņa, 2011; Strode, Roze, 2011; Vishnevska et al., 2011a, 2011b). 3. Studies on cultural history-ethnobotany An ethnobotanical study “Plants as a sign of Latvian identity” is performed since 2007. The research deals with historical understanding of plants as a sign of Latvian identity, as well as factors that have influenced the perception of the term “Latvian plants”, the importance of it in and outside Latvia, the role of these plants in Latvian cultural landscape, including the local differences. The research about use of “Latvian plants” in integration processes is started (Roze, 2009; Roze, 2010a, 2010b, 2010c). 4. Taxonomical studies of several critical groups, mainly Iris subgen. Scorpiris (juno irises), as well as Muscari and Allium sect. Codonoprasum They include cytogenetic approach, analysis of karyotypes, molecular investigation (results has been partly published in 2011 (Ikinci et al., 2011)), morphology studies at various Herbaria, pollination

125 botanikos sodo raštai / Scripta Horti Botanici strategy comparison, study of original identity of several species and conservation proposals of relevant names and types. These activities have been partially funded by the research project “Taxonomy of Iris subgen. Scorpiris: morphology, nomenclature, cytogenetics, molecular studies, palinology and carpology” of Latvian Council of Science (2006- 2008). This multidisciplinary approach is an essential contribution for taxonomic revision of juno irises and is expected to result in a monograph in preparation by T. Hall (RBG Kew, UK) and A. Seisums (NBG). The taxonomy investigation of other groups is restricted to morphology investigation on their rich collections held at NBG, pressed material studies at various institutions, as well as limited cytogenetic and anatomy investigation of taxonomically critical species groups. 5. The Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability tests (DUS; according to UPOV protocol) on Rugosa-type roses bred at NBG During assessed period of time variety rights and legislative protection for 6 cultivars are received: ‘Smaida’ (2010), ‘Lelde’ (2010), ‘Enija’ (2010), ‘Santa’ (2011), ‘Vita’ (2011) and ‘Maija’ (2011). These recently selected cultivars are an essential addition for the original group of 15 Rugosa-type cultivars, selected at NBG since 1969, many of them widely grown and highly appreciated in winter-cold areas of Europe and North America. 6. Rabbiteye blueberry, American cranberry and lingonberry breeding and DUS tests of them The purpose of the breeding work is to create winterhard and disease resistant cultivars of rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium ashei Reade), American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) and lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) with large berries, high productivity and different ripening time. Breeding has been carried out since 1980. In the process, classic plant breeding, interspecific breeding and polyploidy breeding have been employed, and wild lingonberry clones were used. The rabbiteye blueberry cultivars ‘Salaspils Izturīgā’ (1993), and ‘Lielogu’ (1995); the hybrid (cranberry x lingonberry) cultivars ‘Dižbrūklene’ (1997), ‘Salaspils Agrā’ (1996) and ‘Tīna’ (2006); the lingonberry ‘Salaspils Ražīgā’ (1993), ‘Rubīna Lāse’ (1988), ‘Salaspils Ražīgā’ and ‘Jūlija’ (1995) are bred (Ripa, Audriņa, 2009).

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B. Plant biological diversity conservation in vitro (about 30% of scientific activities): 1. The ecological and biological investigation of wild orchid species as the basis for biodiversity conservation of Orchidaceae in Latvia The main purposes to createin vitro taxa bank of orchids are: decrease of natural habitats due to economic activities; complicatedness of the orchid cultivation in the garden due to substrate and other specific needs for particular species; prospective possibilities to use in vitro collection to propagate rare orchids for re-introduction to the nature, supplementing the gardens expositions, and breeding. i. The research project of Latvian Council of Science No. 09.1549, part C: “The ecological and biological investigation of wild orchid species as the basis for biodiversity conservation of Orchidaceae in Latvia”. The objective of this study is to investigate the biology of terrestrial orchids in situ and in vitro with the aim to implement their complete conservation strategy (Roze et al., 2011b, 2011c, 2011d; Belogrudova et al., 2011). ii. Genetic and population research of Cypripedium calceolus. The aim of this study is investigation of growth conditions and genetic diversity of C. calceolus in Latvia. The results are submitted for publication. 2. Creation of taxa bank in vitro of Latvian rare and threatened species. Presently, 78 species of 38 families are cultivated in vitro (Jakobsone et al., 2006a, 2006b; Jakobsone, Grants, 2008; Megre et al., 2011). This work includes 4 main steps: i. Research of rare plants in vitro culture initiation. Results are published (Kļaviņa et al., 2006; Jakobsone, 2008; Gailīte, Kļaviņa, 2011). ii. Development of sterile cultivation methodics for the species problematic in cultivation. Results are published (Jakobsone et al., 2006; Kļaviņa et al., 2009; Gailīte et al., 2010; Ikinci et al., 2011). iii. Creation of the taxa bank in vitro – physiological research for cold storage in slow growing conditions. In vitro cultivation for extended period under slow growth conditions may allow storage of rare species germplasm and use of stored material

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for NBG exposition, experimental needs or re-introduction. Results are published (Klavina, Ievinsh, 2008; Klavina, Klavina, 2008). iv. Growing of species ex situ (in vivo) and their adaptation in seminatural conditions. The objectives of this research are to examine the artificial habitats with conformable communities of plants as an alternative for ex situ conservation, as well as to prepare basis for the future investigations minimizing impact to wild populations and to develop easy-to-use protocols for ex situ conservation. First results are published (Amatniece, 2009; Dubova et al., 2010; Vishnevska et al., 2011a, 2011b). 3. Conservation in vitro of gerbera and chrysanthemum cultivars bred in NBG The taxa bankin vitro for 121 gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) cultivars, including 28 cultivars of NBG breeding, and 89 chrysanthemum (Dendranthema indicum) cultivars, including 34 of NBG breeding, as a backup collection of NBG living collections of hothouse ornamental cultures, as well as for their rejuvenation and sanitation. 4. Elaboration of in vitro methods for cultivation of rare woody plant taxa The taxa bankin vitro for woody plants is being created: 30 cultivars and forms of 8 genera (Cerasus, Sorbus, Betula, Acer, Populus, Alnus, Tilia, Amelanchier) as a base for future research work to develop methodics of in vitro cultivation for woody plant species difficult by conventional vegetative propagation means (cutting, grafting), their juvenilization and sanitation, as well as an alternative method of ex situ conservation of rare woody species and specimens (monumental trees, new mutant forms etc.). C. Research and gene found conservation of indoor plants (about 10% of scientific activities) Fundamental research work in the Department of Indoor Plant Gene Fund Conservation is limited because of technological inadequacy of present greenhouses. Last gerbera and chrysanthemum cultivars bred at NBG were registered in 2000. Currently, the main task is to preserve existing collections, especially those of original breeding. More than a half of NBG amount of scientifically popular articles, radio and

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TV broadcasts, books and exhibitions are made on the basis of these collections. 1. Development of indoor plant growing and propagation technologies is carried out in form of ordered researches and student bachelor works; 2. Development and keeping of tropic and subtropic plant collections mostly serve for education and information purposes; 3. Research and gene found conservation of greenhouse floriculture cultivars. Collections of several hothouse cultures are significant for the Baltic region: chrysanthemum (Dendranthema x hortorum – 270 taxa, including 30 cultivars and hybrids bred at NBG); gerberas (Gerbera jamesonii – 105 taxa, including 30 cultivars and hybrids bred at NBG); alstroemeria (Alstroemeria – 40 taxa, including 4 hybrids bred at NBG); cacti (400 taxa), succulents (Crassulaceae etc.) (300 taxa), cyclamens (Cyclamen) – 37, including 7 of Latvian bred.

Table 1. Number of scientific publications and other outputs 1 lentelė. Mokslinių publikacijų ir kitos produkcijos skaičius 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Original articles in anonymously referred 1 scientific journals Articles in other referred scientific edited 6 4 6 4 4 2 journals and conference proceedings Monographs 1 Other scientific publications 5 10 5 3 6 2 Cultivars protected by law, incl. newly 30 30 33 28 28 25 registered 2 5 3 Conference abstracts 8 7 9 9 10 13 Visiting lectures 2 3 4 5 26 5 Popular scientific articles 82 106 140 38 90 93 Participation in radio programs 5 14 10 1 1 Participation in TV programs 8 20 8 2 3 1 Popular-scientific books 1 2 1 1 1 Exhibitions 9 9 10 7 13 7 Guided excursions 75 82 91 42 43 78

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Research projects

Financially supported by Scientific Council of Latvia: 2006–2008. Regulation of physiologic processes during cold storage under low temperature conditions in tissue cultures: creation of methodologic basis for the taxa bank for the conservation of biological diversity (G. Jakobsone). 2006–2008. Use of the method of isolated embryos in the breeding of ornamental plants in Latvia (G. Jakobsone). 2006–2008. Research of dendroflora of Latvia (I. Bondare). 2006–2008. Taxonomy of Juno irises (Iris, subgen. Scorpiris): morphology, nomenclature, cytogenetics, molecular (DNA) research, palinology and caryology (A. Seisums). 2009. Ecological and biological research of wild orchid species, as a base for biological diversity conservation of Orchidaceae in Latvia (G. Jakobsone). 2010–2011. Biological plant protection, biological diversity conservation and functional importance of plant mineral nutrition in the globally changing environment. Part C: Ecological and biological research of wild orchid species, as a base for biological diversity conservation of Orchidaceae in Latvia (G. Jakobsone). Supported by Fund of Environmental Protection of Latvia (FEPL): 2006–2011: projects about development and keeping of endangered species taxa bank in vitro, ex situ conservation and in situ research of some species (D. Kļaviņa). Contract research projects: 2006–2011. SIA “KANO”: Research of optimal soil mixtures for the houseplants (Z. Purne). 2011. A/s “State Forests of Latvia”: Rejuvenating growing of hybrid poplar propagation material in vitro (G. Jakobsone). Ordered by local governments: 2006–2011 more than 30 research projects, mostly connected with the dendrological research and inventory of green stands (A. Svilāns, I. Bondare a.o.). Ordered by state agencies:

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2006–2011. State Plant Protection Service of Latvia: Plant Variety VCU Testing of lingonberry high blueberry, cranberry-lingonberry cultivars (A. Ripa, B. Audriņa), and rose cultivars (Dz. Rieksta, I. Nereta, S. Veidere). 2008. State Institute of Agricultural Economics of Latvia (SIAEL): Potential of plant nursery business like new and dynamic branch and solutions of its use (I. Leimane, A. Krieviņa, A. Svilāns); Creation of registry of Latvian nursery assortment (D. Roze, I. Nereta, A. Svilāns). International projects: 2012. ERDF Estonia-Latvia crossboard collaboration project “Smart Garden” (together with the NGO (Latvian Society of Environment, Society of Friends of Tartu University Botanic Garden) – NBG part of the project receives support in 200 000 Ls, the execution starts in December 2011). 2012–2014. ERDF supported project “Creation of infrastructure for biological diversity conservation”. Funding of 2 124 999 Ls.

National and international collaboration

In the national level NBG collaborates with: University of Latvia – educational excursions for students of the Faculty of Biology, developing common projects, bachelor and master works, microscopic analyses, plant physiological analyses; Latvia University of Agriculture – educational excursions for students, sharing work experience; University – educational excursions, genetic analyses, doctoral works; Rēzekne High School – working out common ethnobotanic research; Ogre Forestry College – providing educational excursions for students, sharing work experience; Bulduri Gardening High School – providing educational excursions for students, sharing work experience; Institute of Biology of the University of Latvia – in framework of common research projects: common expeditions, soil analyses, genetic analyses;

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Forestry Research Institute “Silava” – “Silava” specialist makes root analyses, mycorhiza analyses, identification of fungi for some NBG research projects; State Institute of Agriculture Economics of Latvia – carrying out common research of Latvian nursery business area; With some Latvian enterprises, like LLC “KANO” – testing soil mixtures for houseplants; JSC “Latvijas Valsts meži” (Latvian State Forests), Kalsnava Arboretum – in common work of selection and evaluation of mutant forms of coniferous and deciduous trees of Latvian provenience for their introduction into ornamental gardening. JSC “Latvijas Valsts meži” (Latvian State Forests), Kalsnava Nursery. – in vitro growing of hybrid poplar Populus tremula x P. tremuloides; Riga Museum of Natural History – in area of public education in nature and biological diversity conservation, gardening and other related areas, in form of regular exhibitions in the museum; Botanical Garden of the University of Latvia – exchange of experience, common publication, joint activities in botanic gardens international organizations; Local governments of Riga, Aizkraukle, Jūrmala, Kuldīga, Liepāja, Eleja, Madona, Balvi, Salaspils, and other Latvian cities and regions – participation of NBG experts in expertise of definite trees – nature monuments, as well as in green plantations protection, conservation and management; Nature Conservation Agency – in areas of ecology, nature conservation, legislation, by participation of NBG experts in expertise of definite objects, development of species conservation, and nature conservation plans, as well as draft laws in nature conservation area.

International collaboration In a result of many years collaboration with Goetheborg Botanic Garden (Sweden) and Kew Royal Botanic Gardens (United Kingdom) fundamental taxonomic and molecular researches in Iris, Muscari, and Allium were carried out. As a result of joint expeditions to Turkey,

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Caucasus and Middle East and additional investigations, several new species are discovered. Collections of world importance of onion species (Allium), Juno irises (Iris subgen. Scorpiris), and Muscari are created in the NBG. Some results of this work are published (Ikinci et al., 2011). In the framework of collaboration with the Vilnius University (Lithuania) several joint expeditions were organized. The expedition- conference “Biological diversity and cultural heritage of Kupiškis region”, and meeting of bilateral working group were organized. Results of this collaboration were published in a poster presentation and a paper (Jakobsone et al., 2008). In collaboration with Šauliai University Botanic Garden (Lithuania) yearly exhibitions of NBG in Šauliai University Botanic Garden became traditional. The Treaty of Collaboration with the Botanical Garden of the Byelorussian Academy of Sciences is signed, the scientists of both gardens are participating in the conferences. In a spirit of collaboration with Tartu University Botanic Garden (Estonia), mutual visits of the groups of specialists are frequent; dendrology specialists of NBG performed expertises of historical trees of Tartu Botanic Garden using acoustic tomography. In 2011, the joint project “Smart Garden” (INTERREG Estonia-Latvia cross board program project) has been launched, which will facilitate creation of modern informative infrastructure in both gardens. NBG takes part in the international seed exchange among world botanic gardens since its establishment in 1956. Our seed exchange partners are more than 600 botanic gardens and arboreta in the entire world. Seeds of known provenance are collected and seed exchange catalogue (“Index Seminum”) containing about 500 accessions is issued each year. In the last two years it is distributed only via e-mail. NBG collaborates with many international organization and networks in its area of activities. The most important of them are: Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) (http://www. BGCI.org). NBG is BGCI member, data about the NBG dendrological collections appearing in the database “Plant Search”, the information and plant material is sent for scientific purposes to the users.

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EU Botanic Gardens Consortium (http://plantnetwork.org/ consortium/index.html). NBG, as a representative of Latvian botanic gardens, takes part in the Consortium meetings where goals and strategy of European botanic gardens in the context of biological diversity conservation are discussed. Association of Baltic Botanic Gardens (Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia). Meetings of botanic gardens of the Baltic states are organized; approximately each 2 years the book of collected articles “Baltic Botanic Gardens” is published. Organization of the Botanic Gardens of the Baltic Sea Region (Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Russia (St-Petersburg & Kaliningrad reg.), Sweden). Each year the conference about the themes of botanic gardens role for the development of the Baltic Sea Region is organized in one of the region states. The Nordic Arboretum Union (Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Iceland). The NBG representative takes part in the NAU meetings with reports on dendrological topics. In 2009 in Latvia was organized NAU meeting “Changing world and the genetic resources of gardens, parks and landscapes in the Nordic Region” (4-8 June, 2009). Place of venue – Bulduri Gardening High School, assizes to Salaspils, National Botanic Garden, Rīga, Botanical Garden of the University of Latvia, and Rucava Arboretum, with 15 active participants from 6 countries, and 7 oral presentations. NBG resources for the scientific research (staff, infrastructure, funding): Data about National Botanic Garden staff and its changes in 2006- 2011 is presented in the table 2.

Table 2. National Botanic Garden staff 2 lentelė. Nacionalinio botanikos sodo darbuotojai Year 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Leading researchers 9 6 5 5 5 5 Researchers 1 4 7 6 6 7 Research assistants 4 3 3 3 2 2 Doctoral students from above 1 2 2 2 2 2

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Total active academic and research 15 15 17 16 15 16 personnel Administrative personnel 18 18 18 18 16 16 Technical personnel 60 61 59 32 29 29 Other 39 40 36 37 27 27 Total staff 132 132 128 111 86 86

Doctoral training: In the beginning of 90-ies in the NBG 16 researchers having doctor degree in biology or agronomy were working. At present in NBG 10 researchers and leading researchers having doctor degree are working. Unfortunately only three of them are younger than 60 years. It is necessary to ensure the transfer of their huge experience to the new generations and young specialists involvement to the work in the garden. The last doctoral work in the base of NBG dendrological collection was defended in 2005, but unfortunately the young doctor did not remained in the garden. The doctoral work of Dace Megre “Anatomical and physiological changes in evergreen rhododendrons during their vegetative propagation” was defended in the University of Latvia in 2011; the garden has got a promising plant physiologist in the Plant Biological Diversity in vitro Conservation Department. At present, two doctoral works are developed under scientific advice of Dr. G. Jakobsone (doctoral candidates Inta Belogrudova and Daina Roze). Prizes awarded to researchers: Dr. Biol. Dzidra Rieksta, 2008: Three Stars Order “For contribution into introduction and breeding of roses in Latvia”, and the Honorary Diploma (Charter of Gratitude) of the Cabinet of Ministers of Republic of Latvia; Dr. Boil. Alfreds Ripa, 2008: Tree Stars Order “For contribution into introduction and implementation of non-traditional berry cultures in Latvia”, and the Honorary Diploma of the CM of RL; Dr. Boil. Dzintra Knape, 2008: The Honorary Diploma of the CM of RL “For Selflessness and Success Working for Good of State and N a t i o n”.

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Memberships in committees, scientific advisory boards a.o. similar tasks: G. Jakobsone, 2007-2011: Expert Commission Biology and Medicine Science, expert; I. Bondare, 2006-2011: Latvian Union of Scientists, member of board and Commission of Ethics; A. Svilāns, 2008-2011: Latvian Plant Growers Society, member of board and Commission of Ethics; 2006-2011: Latvian Society of Dendrology, president; Latvian local governments and green plantations, expert in dendrology; 2011: Deputy of Salaspils Municipality Council, Member of the working group for elaboration of Development Plan of Salaspils Local Municipality.

Research infrastructure Plant collections: In respect of plant collections NBG is the biggest botanic garden in the Baltic states (Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania). There in scientifically verified and exactly documented collections about 15 thousand plant taxa (species, subspecies, cultivars, forms and hybrids) are collected. The collections are evaluated according to their importance: collections of local importance, Latvian, Baltic states, Europe and world level collections. World level are collections of onion species (Allium – 1652 accessions), juno irises (Iris subgen. Scorpiris – 51 taxa, 379 accessions) and other bulbous plants collections (altogether 2980 accessions – specimens of different provenance). European level are dendrological collections: coniferous plants (about 1000 taxa, including new forms), Crataegus (230 taxa), Salix (260 taxa), Populus (171 taxa). The work in selection and propagation of new perspective forms of coniferous plants is carried out, in a result several clones are selected, which in the future can become new ornamental cultivars. Baltic importance are collections of hothouse cultures: chrysanthemums (Dendranthema x hortorum – 270 taxa, including 30 cultivars and hybrids of NBG breeding); gerberas (Gerbera jamesonii – 105 taxa, including 30 cultivars and hybrids of NBG breeding);

136 Ludmila Vishnevska alstroemerias (Alstroemeria – 40 taxa, including 4 hybrids of NBG breeding); cacti (400 taxa), succulents (Crassulaceae) (300 taxa), astilbes (Astilbe – 136 taxa, including 7 cultivars of Latvian breeding). In the NBG some National collections of Latvia are kept: dahlias (Dahlia – 270, including 67 cultivars of Latvian breeding), floxes (Phlox – 97 cultivars, including 5 (all) cultivars of Latvian breeding), lilies (180, including 62 cultivars of Latvian breeding), roses (Rosa cvs. – 508, including 21 cultivars of park roses bred in NBG), asters (Callistephus chinensis – 92 cultivars), tulips (Tulipa 487, including 190 cultivars of Latvian breeding), collections of non-traditional for Latvia berry cultures: American cranberries (Oxycoccus macrocarpon – 19 cultivars, including 8 of NBG breeding; and 20 new perspective forms), high blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum, V. ashei – 40 cultivars, including 4 cultivars of NBG breeding), lingonberries (Vaccinium vitis-idaea – 8 cultivars and forms, including 1 cultivar and 3 perspective forms of NBG breeding), edible honeysucles (Lonicera edulis, L. camtchatica and other – 42 cultivars, including 2 of NBG breeding), sea buckthorns (Hippophae rhamnoides – 18 cultivars, including 1 male thornless clone bred in NBG), arrowwoods (Viburnum opulus, 18 cultivars and hybrids), actinidias (Actinidia kolomikta – 26 species and cultivars); grapes (Vitis vinifera – 13 cultivars, suitable for Latvian climatic conditions, including 5 cultivars of Latvian breeding), hop (Humulus lupulus – 13 cultivars). In the NBG the ex situ collection of Latvian rare and endangered plant species is created, which at present contains 135 species (about 50% of all Latvian protected species of vascular plants), 70 of them are kept also in vitro. This collection is the biggest in Latvia not only in its number of species, but also in its genetic diversity, because the most of its species are presented with several accessions of different provenience. NBG plant collections are used for education and research purposes. Herbarium: NBG Herbarium contains about 150 000 sheets, representing mainly dendroflora of Baltic states (Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania), and Kaliningrad region of Russia, as well as materials of expeditions to Russian Far East. Herbarium is registered in the “Index Herbariorum” (http://sweetgum.nybg.org/ih/) (code – HBA).

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Databases: The databases “NBD augi” (NBG plants) – registry of NBG living plant collections, including dendrological collections – about 21 000 accessions, hothouse plants – about 350 accessions, orangery – about 2000 accessions, deciduous plants – about 2200 accessions; “Dendroflora” (about 20 000 accessions) – registry of woody plants of Latvian parks, arboreta, alleys and other dendrological objects; “Dižkoki” (Monumental trees) – about 3000 accessions of Latvian biggest, oldest trees, as well as trees noteworthy in terms of landscape or cultural heritage points, which are nature monuments or can aspire to this status; database of deciduous plants images (about 3000 accessions); “Publikācijas” (publications) – scientific and popular scientific publications of NBG staff.

Funding The main sources of the National Botanic Garden funding are presented in the table 3.

Table 3. National Botanic Garden funding 3 lentelė. Nacionalinio botanikos sodo finansavimas Source of Funding 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Total (thousand LVL) State budget funding 281,6 830,4 698,3 508,5 441,1 389,9 3148,6 Including: Core (maintenance) - 64,0 77,1 54,9 67,0 24,1 287,0 funding Grants of the Latvian 18,5 24,9 22,4 5,0 4,3 4,3 78,3 Council of Science State budget subsidy (target financing for maintenance 263,1 741,5 598,8 448,6 369,8 361,5 2783,3 of collections) Other funding 255,2 294,1 217,7 122,2 129,0 124,8 1143,1 Including: Contract research and other incomes for payable services 145,0 168,4 135,7 118,1 118,8 118,8 804,9 (tickets, plants and other) ESF, ERDF funding 44,6 ----- 44,6

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Other (Foundation of Environmental Protection 65,6 125,7 82,0 4,1 10,2 6,0 293,6 of Latvia projects) Total 536,7 1123,5 916,1 630,6 570,1 514,7 4291,7

If the funding for research is adequate, its capacity grows, and ensures possibilities to co-operate with other scientific institutions in Latvia and abroad, making or ordering analyses using modern methods and equipment, as well as to publish results. NBG activities have essential differences compared to the other research institutions of Latvia. Considerable amount of its expenditures are for specific infrastructural maintaining: hothouse heating, fuel for farm operations (grass cutting, earthmoving, tillage and similar), roads, melioration and heating system maintenance, as well as renovation of farm machinery. The main part of these expenses is not directly related to the scientific research or any profit, but to the keeping of state property and national heritage – the plant collections. For this purpose, NBG like the most of world botanic gardens receives yearly state subsidy for collections and infrastructure maintenance. It was highest in 2007 (742 000 LVL), while in the last two years it was 370 000, and 360 000 LVL. The funding during 2008-2011 has been insufficient for the all- purpose functioning of NBG. To fill this gap, the garden staff has to deal with a range of other activities: growing plants for trade, organizing plant sale, etc. These activities are barely profitable because resources are being spent on work, needing less qualification; and the comings are devoted to cover infrastructure expenses. Everyday technical maintenance work in collections draws researchers away from scientific investigation. This causes a following problem – scientific work is done in less scope, the characteristics of its effectiveness are declining, therewith core financing is declining. That might escalate the problem in descending spiral mode. The scientific competence in dendrology, plant introduction and acclimatization, evaluation of ex situ conservation and plant taxonomy, as well as the biggest plant collections in the Northeast Europe, are the base

139 botanikos sodo raštai / Scripta Horti Botanici for implementation of the main research directions of NBG. Developing previous results, following up necessary research, providing appropriate facilities, equipment and conditions for collections, the integrated system of in situ/ex situ (including in vitro) conservation of Latvian wild rare and endangered species, their genetic diversity and unique specimens shall be developed, according to demands of Global Strategy for Plant Conservation (GSPC). NBG shall develop in future also as reviewer and keeper of cultural plants’ gene fund of Latvian provenience. The main priority for the nearest 3 years is building of ex situ conservation centre. The project “Formation of infrastructure for ex situ biological diversity conservation in the National Botanic Garden” realization with support of European Regional Development Fund in amount of 2 124 999 LVL (3 045 336 EUR) provides formation of new infrastructure for conservation and propagation of rare and endangered plants, as well as for growing and renewal of houseplant collections of national importance. To reach those objectives, during the project a new hothouse will be built. Project targets to improve collection’s accessibility for visitors and possibilities for education and information, using modern technologies in the expositions.

References

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Jakobsone, G. 2008. Morphogenesis of Wild Orchid Dactylorhiza fuchsii in Tissue Culture. Acta Universitatis Latviensis, ser. Biology, 745: 17–23. Jakobsone, G. 2009. Germination and Development of Some Terrestrial Orchids in vitro. Acta Horticulturae (Proceedings of the Third International Symposium on Acclimatization and Establishment of Micropropagated Plants, Portugal), 812: 533–537. Jakobsone, G.; Auzenbaha, D.; Megre, D. 2006a. Influence of ABA on Storage Possibilities in vitro of Lilacs. Acta Horticulturae, 725 (1): 217–220. Jakobsone, G.; Belogrudova, I.; Megre, D. 2010a. Dactylorhiza fuchsii as Model Object in in vitro Culture Study for Development of Terrestrial Orchids. Acta Biologica Universitatis Daugavpiliensis, Suppl. 2: 41–48. Jakobsone, G.; Belogrudova, I.; Roze, D.; Megre, D. 2010b. Dactylorhiza baltica in vitro and in vivo. XXIII Conference-Expedition of the Baltic Botanists. Abstracts, p. 23. Jakobsone, G.; Dapkūniene, S.; Cepurīte, B.; Belogrudova, I. 2008. The Conservation Possibilities of Endangered Orchid Species of Latvia and Lithuania. Monographs of Botanical Gardens (European Botanic Gardens Together Towards the Implementation of Plant Conservation Strategies), 1: 65–68. Warsaw/Rogow, Poland. Jakobsone, G.; Grants, G. 2008. The Embryogenesis and Development of Newly Obtained Interspecific Lily Hybrids in vitro. Acta Universitatis Latviensis, ser. Biology, 745: 37–41. Jakobsone, G.; Megre, D.; Ievinsh, G. 2006b. Effect of Cultivation Conditions on Morphological Characteristics of Lily Explants in vitro. Acta Universitatis Latviensis, ser. Biology, 710: 29–40. Kļaviņa, D.; Druva-Lūsīte, I.; Gailīte, A. 2009. Asymbiotic Cultivation in vitro of the Endangered Orchid Cypripedium calceolus L. and Some Aspects of in vitro Growth. Acta Horticulturae (Proceedings of the Third International Symposium on Acclimatization and Establishment of Micropropagated Plants, Portugal), 812: 539–544. Kļaviņa, D.; Gailīte, A.; Ievinsh, G. 2006. Initial Responses of Explants from Rare and Endangered Coastal Plant Species During Initiation of Tissue Culture. Acta Universitatis Latviensis, ser. Biology, 710: 81–91. Klavina, D.; Ievinsh, G. 2008. Growth of Tissue Culture and Changes in Oxidative Enzyme Activity of Sorbus and Tayberry Cultivars During Cold Storage. Acta Universitatis Latviensis, ser. Biology, 745: 179–186. Klavina, D.; Klavina, D. 2008. Ex situ Conservation of Endangered Plant Species of Latvia by Slow Growth Storage. 2nd World Scientific Congress “Challenges in Botanical Research and Climate Change”, 28 june-4 july, Delft (submitted).

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Kļaviņa, D.; Šmite, D. 2009. Threatened Plants of Latvia in National Botanic Garden. Baltic Botanic Gardens in 2007-2008. Rīga, p. 61–65. Laiviņš, M.; Krampis, I.; Šmite, D.; Bice, M.; Knape, D. z.; Šulcs, V. 2009. Latvijas kokaugu atlants. Rīga, 606 l. Leimane, I.; Krieviņa, A.; Svilāns, A. 2008. Latvijas stādaudzēšanas nozares ražošanas efektivitātes paaugstināšanas faktori. Economic Science for Rural Development, 15: 95–102. Megre, D.; Dokane, K.; Kondratovics, U. 2011. Can Changes in Starch Content and Peroxidase Activity Be Used as Rooting Phase Markers for Rhododendron Leaf Bud Cuttings. Acta Biologica Cracoviensia. Ser. Botanic, 53: 54–59. Priede, G.; Kļaviņa, D. 2011. In vitro Cultivation of Pulsatilla patens and Root Initiation Possibilities. Environmental and Experimental Biology, 9: 71–74. Ripa, A.; Audriņa, B. 2009. Rabbiteye Blueberry, American Cranberry and Lingonberry Breeding in Latvia. Latvian Journal of Agronomy, 12: 93–98. Roze, D. 2009. Някон латвийски растения като знак идентичность. Izdots rakstu krājumā: Български фолклор кн 3-4: Балканите и Балтика в обединена Европа история религии култури, Науките, c. 107–113. ISSN 0323-9861. Roze, D. 2010a. Some Plants as a Sign of the Latvian Identity. Balkan and Baltic States in United Europe: Histories, Religions and Cultures, p. 132–141. ISBN 978- 954-326-114-7. Roze, D. 2010b. Augi kā latviskās identitātes zīme. Collected Articles of the DU XIX International Scientific Readings. History: Sources and People, p. 164–171. ISBN 978-9984-14-473-3. Roze, D. 2010c. Anša Lerha-Puškaiša devums dārzkopībā: kultūrainavā un stāstos. Letonica 20, LZA LFMI, l. 154–180. ISSN 1407-3110. Roze, D. 2011a. „Anša Lerha – Puškaiša devums dārzkopībā: avoti un stāsti.” Materials of XX International Scientific Readings of the Daugavpils University Humanity Faculty. History XIV. History: Sources and People. Daugavpils, l. 264–271. Roze, D. 2011b. Stāstu izmantošana lekciju strukturēšanā, pasniedzēja un studentu savstarpējo attiecību veidošanā un problēmu risināšanā. Daugavpils Universitātes 53. Starptautiskās zinātniskās konferences tēžu krājums. Daugavpils, l. 13. Roze, D. 2011c. „Latviskie augi” Latvijas kultūrainavā: pētnieka pieredzes stāsts. LU 69. zinātniskās konferences Zemes un vides zinātņu nozares sekcijā, apakšsekcijā „Ainavu pētījumi”. Internet access: http://www.geo.lu.lv/gzzf/DDwENGINE/ TINYMCE_RTE/uploaded/A5_kopa_tezes_2011_crop.pdf.

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MOKSLINIAI TYRIMAI LATVIJOS NACIONALINIAME BOTANIKOS SODE 2006–2011 M.

Santrauka Pagal kolekcijų mastą ir augalų taksonų skaičių jose (129 ha 15 000 augalų taksonų), mokslinę ir mokslo populiarinamąją veiklą, Latvijos nacionalinis botan- ikos sodas (NBS) pirmauja Baltijos šalyse (Latvija, Estija ir Lietuva). Latvijoje NBS yra pagrindinė institucija, kurios darbuotojai atlieka ex situ kolekcijose retų ir nykstančių Latvijos floros augalų kryptingus tyrimus ir įvairiapusius tyrimus, sus- ijusius su augalų išsaugojimu. Vykdomi svarbūs Latvijos nacionalinei ekonomikai didžiavaisių spanguolių ir aukštaūgių šilauogių selekcijos, introdukcijos, daugini- mo ir auginimo technologijų tyrimai. Parko rožių veislės, išvestos NBS, yra papli- tusios ne tik Latvijos, bet ir Šiaurės Europos bei Šiaurės Amerikos soduose. NBS yra aplinkosauginio švietimo ir informacijos centras, kuris skatina racionaliai ir tvariai naudoti aplinkos išteklius. NBS vykdo trijų pagrindinių krypčių tyrimus: lauko augalų tyrimai ir genofondo išsaugojimas (apie 60 % mokslinės veiklos); augalų biologinės įvairovės išsaugojimas in vitro (30 %); patalpose auginamų augalų tyrimai ir genofondo išsaugojimas (10 %). Pagrindinis artimiausių trejų metų prioritetas – augalų išsaugojimo ex situ centro statyba. Reikšminiai žodžiai: Latvijos nacionalinis botanikos sodas, moksliniai tyrimai.

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