Project
Plant Science and Biodiversity Centre SAS
International Projects
ABMS PILOT - Automated monitoring of birds, bats and nocturnal insects through sound and image recognition
Biodiversa+ pilotný projekt monitoringu biodiverzity - Automatizované monitorovanie vtákov, netopierov a nočného hmyzu pomocou rozpoznávania zvuku a obrazu
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | Biodiversa Plus ABMS |
| Program: | Horizont Európa |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Šibík Jozef PhD. |
| Annotation: | Novel technologies have strong potential to support the harmonisation of biodiversity monitoring programmes on a pan-European scale. They can enhance standardisation, scalability, and cost-efficiency. This pilot deploys automated visual and acoustic sensor systems in 13 countries to monitor nocturnal insects, birds and bats, paving the way for transnational biodiversity monitoring. This pilot focuses on: • Setting up a coordinated acoustic and image-based monitoring scheme across different European regions; • Improving image recognition for nocturnal insects and sound recognition for nocturnal birds and bats; • Assessing the advantages and challenges of using sensor-based tools to monitor common species in real-time; • Demonstrating how sensor-based monitoring can be used more widely in the future. • Main activities. This pilot monitors insects using image-based recognition through camera-enabled light traps. Images of nocturnal insects are then analysed using existing insect detectors and classifiers. The collected data will deliver Essential Biodiversity Variables (species counts and biomass estimates). Automated audio recognition is used to monitor birds and bats. |
| Project web page: | https://www.biodiversa.eu/biodiversity-monitoring/pilots/abms-pilot/ |
Habitat PILOT - Mapping and monitoring of grassland and wetland habitats
Biodiversa+ pilotný projekt monitoringu biodiverzity - Mapovanie a monitorovanie biotopov trávnych porastov a mokradí
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | Biodiversa+ Habitat |
| Program: | Horizont Európa |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Šibík Jozef PhD. |
| Annotation: | The Habitat pilot project aims to develop harmonized methods for mapping and monitoring the quality of grassland and wetland habitats using remote sensing (RS) data. The project builds on the experiences of partners in habitat mapping and monitoring their quality. The goal is to gather information on current remote sensing methods that can be used across different regions, thereby enhancing the methodological basis for habitat assessments and reporting, as well as systematic comparisons of target areas, and to create a solid foundation for harmonized analysis and monitoring of the status of European habitats. Significant effort is being made to revise current approaches to individual habitats based on remote sensing observations, share experiences, and develop proposals for the next steps in the pilot project. |
| Project web page: | https://www.biodiversa.eu/biodiversity-monitoring/pilots/habitat-pilot/ |
The European Biodiversity Partnership - IAS Subpilot
Biodiversa+ pilotný projekt monitoringu biodiverzity - Subpilot monitoring inváznych druhov
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 101052342 |
| Program: | Horizont Európa |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Šingliarová Barbora PhD. |
| Annotation: | The species monitoring sub-pilot will consist of two modules. Module 1 focusing on plants and Module 2 focusing on insects. The main focus will be on invasive alien species, but additional emphasis will be put on the wider group of non-native species, whose impacts are not fully understood. This wider scope should prepare for the detection of future invasive alien species. Both modules employ image recognitions using computer vision and deep learning models for cost efficient and rapid detection of species of concern. These methods rely on training data of the species of concern to function effectively. Such data is available in GBIF as well as in pilot projects from Denmark (plants and insects) and France and Switzerland (plants), but additional data will be collected as part of this pilot program to ensure accurate detection models for the future. For module 1, there will be an effort to monitor both introduction and spread. In this way, the pilot program will be relevant in the context of introduction sites as well as for the collection of additional training data to improve image recognition models. |
| Project web page: | https://www.biodiversa.eu/biodiversity-monitoring/pilot/ |
FULLRECO4US - Cross-border transfer and development of sustainable resource recovery strategies towards zero waste
Cezhraničný prenos a rozvoj stratégií trvalo udržateľného využívania zdrojov smerom k nulovému odpadu
| Duration: | 28. 9. 2021 - 27. 9. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | COST CA20133 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | Ing. Szabóová Monika PhD. |
| Annotation: | Waste is being generated as a result of population growth, industrialization, and improvement of human standard of living. In the absence of efficient waste management systems, waste ends in landfills and in the environment (through informal discharges) leading to pollution and to a linear economy. Due to increasing awareness of the deleterious effects on the environment and human health, policies are being gradually implemented to motivate a mindset shift from linear to circular (bio)economies and decouple economic growth from use of resources. Full waste recycling and valorization will play a crucial role in the establishment of sustainable circular (bio)economies. Although waste recycling and valorization strategies have started to be implemented across borders within Europe, their implementation level is not homogenous and harmonization is needed. FULLRECO4US is an answer to this need and will function as a discussion platform centred on holistic approaches to waste recycling and valorization, and on the development of new cross-border interdisciplinary and intersectoral networks. These networks, in turn, will cooperate in the development of feasible and environmentally-friendly resource recovery approaches that can be translated into, e.g., competitive research funding applications and contribute to building research and innovation capacity within Europe and beyond. FULLRECO4US will include a set of networking activities such as Short-Term Scientific Missions, Workshops, Conference and Symposium attendance, supported by Working Groups focused on genesis of holistic approaches for waste recycling and valorization, engagement of stakeholders, and on dissemination and communication of Action’s results to enhance impact, consensus, and harmonization of newly built strategies. |
| Project web page: | https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA20133/ |
Distributed System of Scientific Collections Transition to ERIC Project; DiSSCo Transition) - HORIZON Coordination and Support Actions
Distribuovaný systém vedeckých zbierok – prechod do projektu ERIC
| Duration: | 1. 12. 2023 - 31. 5. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 101130121 |
| Program: | Horizont Európa |
| Project leader: | prof. RNDr. Marhold Karol DrSc. |
| Annotation: | The Distributed System of Scientific Collections (DiSSCo) is a pan-European Research Infrastructure (RI) initiative. DiSSCo aims to bring together natural science collections from 175 museums, botanical gardens, universities and research institutes across 23 countries in a distributed infrastructure that makes these collections physically and digitally open and accessible for all forms of research and innovation. DiSSCo RI entered the ESFRI roadmap in 2018 and successfully concluded its Preparatory Phase in early 2023. The RI is now transitioning towards the constitution of its legal entity (an ERIC) and the start of its scaled-up construction (implementation) programme. The primary goal of the DiSSCo Transition Project is to ensure the seamless transition of the DiSSCo RI from its Preparatory Phase to the Construction Phase (expected to start in 2025). In this transition period, the Project will address five objectives building on the outcomes of the Preparatory Phase project: 1) Advance the DiSSCo ERIC process and complete its policy framework, ensuring the smooth earlyphase Implementation of DISSCo; 2) Engage & support DiSSCo National Nodes to strengthen national commitments; 3) Advance the development of core e-services to avoid the accumulation of technical debt before the start of the Implementation Phase; 4) Continue international collaboration on standards & best practices needed for the DiSSCo service provision; and 5) Continue supporting DiSSCo RI interim governance bodies and transition them to the DiSSCo ERIC formal governance. The Project’s impact will be measured against the increase in the RI's overall Implementation Readiness Level (IRL). More specifically, we will monitor its impact towards reaching the required level of maturity in four of the five dimensions of the IRL that can benefit from further developments. These include the organisational, financial, technological and data readiness levels. |
COPYTREE - European Network for Innovative Woody Plant Cloning
Európska sieť pre inovatívne klonovanie drevín
| Duration: | 24. 10. 2022 - 23. 10. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | COST CA21157 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Perniš Miroslav PhD. |
| Annotation: | In vitro culture of woody plants is leaving the academic laboratories and is now being developed in a range of commercial applications in horticulture and forestry that respond to the challenges of climate change and changing global food and wood consumption habits. It is therefore urgent that the research challenges, public acceptance, risk assessment and commercial application are confronted now in order to establish a well informed scientific community, policy makers and market place. This proposal concerns the following challenges, whose solution will have a significant scientific, social and economic impact: How can we overcome recalcitrance in a lot of woody plants? What are the best tools for diagnosis, sanitation and storing clean stocks? How can the production of elite clones be scaled up at a acceptable price? What are the real risks of this technology and how can the public be informed so that they appreciate and accept the applications ? How can foresters and landowners be persuaded to invest in planting poly-clonal forests? Taking these aspects into account, it seems more than urgent to us to set up a European network to connect the researchers involved from various domains, so that they can share innovations and develop new research strategies, assess the risks of the technology and improve communication with stakeholders and the general public. |
| Project web page: | https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA21157/ |
E-NICHE - European Network In CHEmical Ecology: translating the language of life into sustainability
Európska sieť v chemickej ekológii: transformácia súčasného života k udržateľnosti
| Duration: | 6. 10. 2023 - 5. 10. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | CA22102 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Matúšová Radoslava PhD. |
| Annotation: | E-NICHE will help unify the different branches of chemical ecology (CE) by bringing together researchers who study natural compounds that can act as semiochemicals (i.e., communication signals). At present, collaborations among these researchers are limited because CE is an extremely fragmented field. E-NICHE will foster partnerships between (a) scientists studying aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems; (b) natural products chemists, biochemists, and ecologists; (c) vertebrate biologists and entomologists; (d) plant and animal biologists; (e) zoologists and molecular biologists; and (f) neurobiologists and microbiologists. Their interactions will generate original ideas and perspectives while simultaneously meeting societal needs, a challenge that involves the creation of new chemical formulations, novel molecules, and innovative applications for natural compounds. This work will be nourished by a deeper understanding of the living world through the lens of chemical mediation, the main system of biological communication. It will also aim to prevent the loss of the chemical biodiversity found in nature, under threat because of global changes. Consequently, E-NICHE’s overarching objective is to establish a strong, extended European CE network that catalyses international, interdisciplinary, and cross-sectoral exchanges with a view to building knowledge and intergenerational sustainable development solutions. Via the new network created by E-NICHE, researchers will broaden their breadth of knowledge, define new research directions, and transform their discoveries into pioneering solutions. |
| Project web page: | https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA22102/#tabs+Name:Description |
Resistance - LIFE Resistance
LIFE Resistance
| Duration: | 1. 6. 2024 - 30. 9. 2030 |
| Evidence number: | LIFE23-NAT-SK-LIFE-RESISTANCE/101148377 |
| Program: | LIFE |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Šibíková Mária PhD. |
| Annotation: | The project aims at suppressing invasive plant species in Danube floodplain habitats through comprehensive measures. Naturally, the project is therefore a cooperation between organisations from Slovakia and Hungary. By restoring the water regime and the native plant species composition of the floodplain forests, as well as by reintroducing grazing to the project sites, we will create conditions unsuitable for invasive plants that suppress our native biodiversity. The project also includes the development and testing of software for early detection of invasive species stands and their spread using satellite and drone imagery. We will analyse the impact of restoration measures on living organisms through environmental DNA. The project also includes several innovative approaches, such as growing seedlings of native floodplain forest species with local ectomycorrhizal fungi that will be resistant to adverse conditions and can compete with invasive species; or removing the invasive tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) using its natural enemy, the fungus Verticillium sp. A wide range of educational activities are being carried out within the project to not only spread awareness of invasive species and the changes they cause, but also to make successful project measures available to experts and stakeholders so that the results can be replicated as far as possible in other locations and regions. |
| Project web page: | https://broz.sk/en/projekty/life-resistance/ |
Network on water-energy-food Nexus for a low-carbon economy in Europe and beyond
Network voda-energia-potraviny „NEXUS“ pre nízkouhlíkovú ekonomiku v Európe a vo svete
| Duration: | 25. 5. 2021 - 24. 5. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | COST CA20138 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | Ing. Szabóová Monika PhD. |
| Annotation: | An international network of researchers is working with policymakers and the business sector to better understand how the water-energy-food Nexus fosters policy coherence in the domains of water, energy and food, supporting the transition towards a circular and low-carbon economy in Europe. Focus is on job creation, enhancing wellbeing and care for the environment. The Nexus concept is tested at different scales (i.e. local, regional, national, European), while the international dimension is explored through the involvement of international proposers. More Nexus-compliant practices are foreseen through a knowledge sharing hub at European level and beyond. Public-private initiatives pave the path for Nexus compliant practices, building on network members’ advice. NEXUSNET will deliver examples of nexus compliant decision making, and recommendations to best achieve them, to come-up with an overview of Good Nexus Practices in Europe (policy coherence, Nexus-compliant practices and more coherent nexus evaluations). Transdisciplinary approaches are adopted to test Nexus compliant practices with the involvement of relevant stakeholders, while interaction and engagement with current and finished Nexus-related projects will be pursued. Academic Nexus knowledge will be translated into practical and applicable knowledge for the private sector or policy makers. A series of intense knowledge transfer and dissemination actions are planned to ensure that the network will have a significant impact in Europe and beyond. |
LIFE23-NAT-SK-LI - Restoration of priority grassland habitats in Slovakia and Romania
Obnova prioritných trávnatých biotopov na Slovensku a v Rumunsku
| Duration: | 1. 6. 2024 - 30. 9. 2031 |
| Evidence number: | LIFE23-NAT-SK-LIFE DIVERSEED/101148306 |
| Program: | LIFE |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Dúbravková Daniela PhD. |
| Annotation: | DIVERSEED is a 7-year project focused on the restoration of priority grassland habitats shared between Slovakia and Romania, and brings innovative mapping and restoration techniques which will have wide and long-lasting impact after project end. It will target 10 habitats (9 Priority Habitats in Annex I of Habitats Directive, and one Endangered habitat in the European Habitats Red List) in 33 SCIs, 30 in Slovakia and 3 in Romania. At least 920 ha of priority grassland habitats will be restored directly, and a further 1,200 ha indirectly through replications. In addition, the project will give a significant boost to future grassland restoration by demonstrating, and leaving sustainable capacity for, the harvesting of seeds from priority habitats, and by developing protocols for seed collection and reseeding in protected grasslands. Local seed mixtures are not available in Slovakia or Romania, and are needed to meet increasing demand for restoration. DIVERSEED will work closely with farmers and farmer associations, environment agencies and national authorities, who have all expressed their interest. Restoration will use classic measures including grazing, mowing, removal of invasive species. In addition, the innovative seeding approach will restore species composition of grasslands. This will also benefit pollinators; flora and pollinators will be monitored to assess project impact. Importantly, the project will also properly map and assess the critical decline of grasslands in Romania, underestimated owing to lack of mapping capacity, and will demonstrate use of latest mapping techniques. Project results will assist improvements of agri-environment schemes in Romania which are failing to halt grassland declines. Many activities for volunteers, schools and general public will take place, as well as policy work with authorities and extensive farmer training. The seed mixtures will be designed for market uptake for further replication after the project ends. |
| Project web page: | https://broz.sk/projekty/life-diverseed/ |
PANGEOS - Pan-European Network of Green Deal Agriculture and Forestry Earth Observation Science
Pan-Európska sieť zelenej dohody o poľnohospodárstve a vedy o lesníctve a pozorovaní Zeme
| Duration: | 6. 11. 2023 - 5. 11. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | CA22136 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Galgóci Martin PhD. |
| Annotation: | The sustainability of Europe’s green resources are threatened by climate change associated environmental changes. Agricultural systems and forests are among the ecosystems mostly interlinked with human health and wellbeing due to the socio-economic services they provide. Whether heat, drought, extreme weather, or biotic stressors, conventional agriculture and forestry today is unprepared for future climate scenarios, rising populations, changing consumption habits, and traditional management practices need re-thinking. The objectives set by PANGEOS are developed in the wake of the European Green Deal strategic goals. For agriculture, these include ensuring food security in the face of climate change, strengthening the EU food system’s resilience and reducing the environmental and climate footprint of the EU agricultural sector towards a competitive and sustainable use and management of resources. For forestry, these span the protection, restoration and enlargement of the EU’s forests to combat climate change, reversing biodiversity loss and ensuring resilient and multifunctional forest ecosystems. To support these goals, PANGEOS aims to leverage state-of-the-art remote sensing (RS) technologies to advance field phenotyping workflows, precision agriculture/forestry practices and larger-scale operational assessments for a more sustainable management of Europe’s natural resources. We propose to bridge the gap between state-of-the-art technologies and applied sciences, to directly serve and inform academics, Young Researchers and Innovators, Inclusiveness Target Countries and Near Neighbor Countries, end-users (e.g., farmers, foresters), and stakeholders in industry and policy-makers by bringing together RS experts and applications in (1) Field Phenotyping, (2) Precision and Regenerative Agriculture, (3) Sustainable Land Management of Complex European landscapes, and (4) Uncertainty Analysis and Standardization. |
RECROP - Reproductive Enhancement of CROP resilience to extreme climate
Reprodukčné zvýšenie odolnosti plodín voči extrémnemu podnebiu
| Duration: | 4. 10. 2023 - 3. 10. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | CA22157 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Lakhneko Olha PhD. |
| Annotation: | Climate change is a threat for food security as extreme weather phenomena will reduce the yield of all major crops. Grain and fruit crops which consist the core of human diet are particularly vulnerable due to the sensitivity of sexual reproduction process to abiotic stresses. Consequently, there is an urgent need to generate elite varieties with enhanced reproductive stress resilience. RECROP (Reproductive Enhancement of CROP resilience to extreme climate) is a team of agronomists, physiologists, geneticists, biologists, bioinformaticians and researchers from the field of Machine Learning from public organizations and private sector which will use holistic approaches to understand the grounds of crop sensitivity and design solutions for yield stimulation in the era of climate change. RECROP aims to: (1) Identify the genetic, molecular, and physiological makeup of the sensitivity of crop reproduction, (2) Create a roadmap for the generation of resilient crops, and (3) Provide guidelines of exogenous treatments to increase resilience in a sustainable manner and push the limits of the genetically inherited stress tolerance. The aims will be fulfilled by four Working Groups (WGs) which in addition to research discussions will organize training schools, workshops, conferences, and dissemination activities. RECROP will actively support Early Stage Career researchers through training and networking and support interactions with Near Neighbouring and partner COST countries. RECROP members will be actively involved in building communication channels with Policy Makers to provide scientific advice and support them in scientific-based context of future policies on biotechnology, technology and agriculture sectors. |
Grasslands for biodiversity: supporting the protection of the biodiversity-rich grasslands and related management practices in the Alps and Carpathians
Trávne porasty pre biodiverzitu: podpora ochrany trávnych porastov bohatých na biodiverzitu a súvisiacich postupov hospodárenia v Alpách a Karpatoch
| Duration: | 1. 4. 2023 - 31. 3. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | Biodiversa2021-532 |
| Program: | Horizont Európa |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Janišová Monika PhD. |
SUSTAIN - Sustainable use of salt-affected lands
Trvalo udržateľné využívanie zasolených pôd
| Duration: | 3. 10. 2023 - 2. 10. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | CA22144 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Mistríková Veronika PhD. |
| Annotation: | Salinisation, the accumulation of water-soluble salts in the soil, is one of the major causes of soil degradation affecting 833 million hectares of land and 1.5 billion inhabitants worldwide. However, these lands can be used by applying saline agriculture, involving soil, water and salt-tolerant crop management methods. Cultivation of salt-affected lands aids in addressing food and water security in the times of progressing climate change and population growth. As a result, there is an urgent need to create a network of research and practice and foster the sustainable use of salt-affected lands. This COST Action aims to build a global transdisciplinary network of scientific experts and engaged stakeholders in the field of salinity research in the context of food security, sustainability and the intensifying climate crisis. Our activities will focus on: (i) understanding responses to heterogeneous soil salinity and other combined stresses in the soil-rhizosphere-plant continuum; (ii) building a knowledge-base to improve water and soil management, and crop production on salt-affected lands; (iii) showcasing the total value of salt-affected lands and saline landscapes; (iv) connecting various stakeholders involved in saline agriculture; and (v) developing targeted policy frameworks for the proper salinisation management, bringing saline agriculture as a complementary component in the European food security agenda for coastal and inland salt-affected lands. Mutual knowledge exchange and sharing best practices will contribute to more sustainable use of salt-affected lands and enhance the resilience of the landscape as a whole. |
| Project web page: | https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA22144/#tabs+Name:Description |
The role of geomorphology in the shaping of the turnover of plant species in dolines
Úloha geomorfológie pri formovaní druhového zloženia v krasových závrtoch
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | SAZU-SAS-2023-01 |
| Program: | Mobility |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Vantarová Katarína PhD. |
Developing UNITE database for estimating global distribution of ectomycorrhizal fungi
Využitie UNITE databázy na odhad globálneho rozšírenia ektomykoríznych húb
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | EAS-SAS-2023-01 |
| Program: | Mobility |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Adamčík Slavomír PhD. |
| Annotation: | The project focuses on describing fungal diversity using UNITE – a public database of DNA barcodes. The main aim is to improve distinction of species in case of low inter- but high infraspecific DNA sequence variation, and to develop search of sequence metadata deposited via the data linked to PlutoF platform. |
SMILES - Enhancing Small-Medium IsLands resilience by securing the sustainability of Ecosystem Services
Zvýšenie odolnosti malých a stredných ostrovov zabezpečením udržateľnosti ekosystémových služieb
| Duration: | 22. 9. 2022 - 21. 9. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | COST CA 21158 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Šibík Jozef PhD. |
| Annotation: | xx |
National Projects
Genetic analysis of juniper species Juniperus communis var. communis, J. sibirica and their putative hybrids J. communis var. intermedia in Slovakia
Genetická analýza borievok Juniperus communis var. communis, J. sibirica a ich predpokladaných hybridov J. communis var. intermedia na Slovensku
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0005/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Galgóci Martin PhD. |
| Annotation: | The subject of our study are the species J. communis var. communis L., J. sibirica Lodd v Burgsde and J. communis var. intermedia (Sahur) Sanio, which is presumed to be a hybrid origin coming from some of the mentioned parents. In the study, we will search for the anatomical features of the needles and at the same time, we will do DNA studies aimed at finding DNA species-specific markers. As well, we will do population genetic studies that should give us a new knowledge about the genetic structure and the diversity and in the end the information about the uniqueness of these individual populations. We also plan to make some hybridology studies to verify the hybridological affinity of the parental species together with related studies aimed at the determining of pollen quality at the semifinal level. The obtained seeds will be a subject to the cytological study focused on the study of pre- and pozygotic disorders during the embryo development. |
Adaptation and tolerance mechanisms of fast growing trees to metal(loid)s and drought - a way how to restore and reuse contaminated sites and marginal land
Adaptačné a tolerančné mechanizmy rýchlorastúcich drevín na (polo)kovy a sucho - cesta ako obnoviť a opätovne využiť kontaminované územia a opustené miesta
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0318 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Vaculíková Miroslava PhD. |
| Annotation: | Metal and metalloid pollution is one of the crucial factors that negatively affect the environment and quality of our life. In Slovakia there is more than 800 registered contaminated sites at the moment, from which more than 300 have not been remediated or reclaimed yet. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find out various strategies and solutions for sustainable soil decontamination or appropriate land use. This project aims to find out response mechanisms of selected fast-growing trees, like poplars (Populus sp.) and willows (Salix sp.) to metal contamination, and at the same time find out how they respond to drought, one of the major consequences of changing climate in Central European region. The results of the project could have a great potential for application of selected species for restoration of contaminated sites and abandoned marginal land, and production of safe and valuable wood biomass as a renewable source of energy. |
COMBAT - Understanding COmmunity asseMBly driven by Alien Trees
Ako nepôvodné druhy stromov limitujú vytváranie biologických spoločenstiev?
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0143/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Šibíková Mária PhD. |
| Annotation: | The main aim of this project is to obtain new findings about processes, causal factors, and underlying mechanisms responsible for developing specific plant communities driven by alien trees. Previous studies show that plant communities dominated by alien trees differ from native forest communities significantly in the case of species composition, functional traits composition, and occurrence of functional species groups. Neophyte and archaeophyte invasive trees come from different continents, creating novel interactions at the community level. Thus, the mechanisms of community development follow different rules than native-only communities, and these processes remain unknown. The question of developing herbal synusia under the alien tree species that already formed a forest structure remains unknown, and the proposed project aims to fulfill this knowledge gap. These findings will be crucial for the adaptation of organisms creating ecosystems during ongoing climate crises. |
Red Book of Plant Communities of Slovakia
Červená kniha rastlinných spoločenstiev Slovenska
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0067/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Valachovič Milan DrSc. |
What we (do not) know about the genus Crepidotus (Agaricomycotina, fungi)
Čo (ne)vieme o rode Crepidotus (Agaricomycotina, huby)
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0346/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Adamčík Slavomír PhD. |
| Annotation: | Fungi of the genus Crepidotus (Agaricomycotina) have pileate fruiting bodies with a lamellate hymnophore and a typically a reduced stipe. They grow on various dead plant substrates, especially wood. They are circumpolarly widespread and relatively common from tropical to hemiboreal regions. The genus Crepidotus was processed monographically several times, but the individual species were defined only on the basis of morphological features. Phylogenetic studies have confirmed the genus Crepidotus as a separate lineage of Agaricomycotina, but species delimitation and relationships are not sufficiently known and resolved. This project focuses on reconstructing of phylogenetic relationships in the genus, the identification of species diversity and the molecular delimitationof the species concept that was so far defined only morphologically. We will use traditional methods of statistically supported morphological observations in combination with phylogenetic analysis of several regions of DNA. A robust dataset of sequences, morphological observations and ecological data will make it possible to monitor evolutionary processes and the adaptive function of morphological structures. |
MEADOW - Species-rich Carpathian grasslands: mapping, history, drivers of change and conservation
Druhovo bohaté lúky a pasienky Karpát: mapovanie, história, príčiny zmien a ochrana
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2022 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-21-0226 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Janišová Monika PhD. |
| Annotation: | European agriculture is at a crossroads. Continuing the industrial intensification of agricultural production and the associated abandonment of marginal land equals continuing the direct negative environmental impacts on landscape quality and further loss of biodiversity. The second available option is adopting the quality of the landscape and its sustainability as essential criteria for optimization and management of agricultural production. The main aim of our transdisciplinary project is to support this second option with practical scientific knowledge on environmental and societal potentials regarding sustainable grassland management in the Carpathians using traditional agricultural practices, as well as on which social and institutional features might help embedding such management within the modern Slovak economy. The main objectives of the project are: 1) to identify and map biodiversity-rich grassland areas in the Carpathians and related local environmental and social factors; 2) identify and map areas with high environmental and social potential for successful grassland restoration in Slovakia; and 3) propose a national strategy for state and non-governmental support regarding ecological restoration, conservation and management of the identified grassland areas. We intend to reach such a comprehensive and practical understanding through a collaborative combination of the latest available earth observation data for the Carpathian region, analytical methods and tools, but also pioneering field research; all in parallel on behalf of the scientific fields of botany, ecology, geography, remote sensing and social anthropology. The planned outputs of the project – scientific studies and the proposal of a national strategy to support species-rich grasslands – can, in addition to direct use by contracted domestic recipient organisations (MoE SR and BROZ), also serve as a template for applied research focusing on ecological grassland restoration in Europe and beyond. |
Evolutionary and ecological outcomes of plant invasions: What are the potential consequences of post-invasion hybridization and polyploidization on the invasiveness of Solidago taxa in Europe?
Evolučné a ekologické dôsledky rastlinných invázií: aké sú potenciálne dopady hybridizácie a polyploidizácie po invázii na inváznosť taxónov rodu Solidago (zlatobyľ) v Európe?
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0024/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Šingliarová Barbora PhD. |
| Annotation: | Because of the complexity of biological invasions and post-invasion processes (such as mating interactions with native species), a better understanding of the underlying factors and their management is challenging. Members of the genus Solidago represent exceptionally successful invaders in Europe. In this project, we aim to determine the impact of hybridization and introgression in alien-hybrid-native S. canadensis–xniederederi–virgaurea populations and polyploidization in S. gigantea populations on the evolutionary and invasive potential of newly formed genotypes within the invaded range in Europe. We will take an integrative approach combining relative DNA content screening, assessment of population genetic structure by up-to-date molecular markers and measurements of reproductive potential and fitness parameters. We expect to bring new insights into the microevolutionary processes and their impact on further invasiveness as well as to provide a baseline for nature conservation and management decisions. |
The plant species diversity and physiological response to changing ecological conditions of floodplain forests
Hodnotenie druhovej diverzity a fyziologickej odozvy rastlín na ekologické podmienky lužných lesov
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0053/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Ing. Hrivnák Richard DrSc. |
Gemstones of biodiversity: taxonomy, evolutionary relationships and life strategies of target earth tongues (Fungi, Ascomycota)
Hrozienka v koláči biodiverzity jazýčkovitých húb (Ascomycota): taxonómia, evolučné vzťahy a životná stratégia
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0074/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Kučera Viktor PhD. |
| Annotation: | Earth tongues (members of the families Geoglossaceae and Leotiaceae) represent rare fungi and are endangered in most countries of their occurrence but are, together with other fungi, gemstones of biodiversity. Even these fungi are uncommon more that 30 new species were described last decade. According to our research, more are expected to be delimited, namely new Microglossum and Geoglossum taxa in the region of the Carpathians. And more new taxa are expected to be described from other regions in co-operation with foreign colleagues as important addition to the knowledge of the biodiversity. Previous studies confirmed that some geoglossoid species (such as Sarcoleotia globosa and members of the genus Leotia) form ericoid mycorrhiza with plants. Since genus Microglossum is phylogenetically related to Leotia there is possible that also Microglossum species could have similar life strategies. Our preliminary analysis of DNA indicated that such hypothesis should be studies and tested. |
FUNPOXHYB - Fungal hybrid heme peroxidases from primeval forest with application in environmental biotechnologies
Hybridné hémové peroxidázy húb z pralesa s využitím v environmentálnych biotechnológiách
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0284 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Adamčík Slavomír PhD. |
| Annotation: | Hybrid heme peroxidases (EC 1.11.1.7) are newly discovered specific oxidoreductases capable of cleaving reactive peroxide bonds in inorganic as well as organic compounds. Concomitantly to this cleavage they oxidize mainly organic compounds forming radical products that can enter polymerization reactions. Over 260 complete sequences from various regions of whole genome DNA were discovered. After their RNA splicing and translation in corresponding protein sequences they exhibit a high level of conservation. So far they were discovered solely in the kingdom of fungi. According to their typical essential sequence patterns responsible for heme binding they all belong to the large peroxidase-catalase superfamily couting currently over 41000 representatives from prokaryotes and eukaryotes. With their catalytic activity hybrid peroxidases represent efficient extracellular enzymatic antioxidants with broad application in defence against toxic effects of the oxidative stress. Recently, their expression and function was described in phytopathogenic fungi. The objective of our proposed project is the discovery of complete DNA gene clusters, corresponding mRNA transcripts and translated secreted isozymes of hybrid heme peroxidases among non-pathogenic fungi isolated from unique primeval forest biotopes of Slovakia. Our goal is to obtain a stable level of expression for selected recombinant hybrid peroxidases with highest level of catalytic efficiency typical for this subfamily. We aim to purify sufficient amounts of this unique enzymatic antioxidants to allow the resolution of 3D structure from produced protein crystals. This shall lead to the explanation of their peculiar reactivity on the base of structure-function relationships in the conserved catalytic centre. No such crystal structure for any hybrid peroxidases is known yet so its availability for unique peroxidases from primeval forest biotopes will allow great future applications in green biotechnologies. |
AQUARAD - Chronic ionizing radiation compromises resistance to pests in wild aquatic plants: Discovery and validation of biochemical mechanisms
Chronické ionizujúce žiarenie narúša odolnosť vodných rastlín voči škodcom: Štúdium a validácia biochemických mechanizmov
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0545 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Danchenko Maksym PhD. |
| Annotation: | Most environmental pollutants, including radionuclides, are persistent; thus, they chronically influence plants. Ionizing radiation is a ubiquitous stress factor with unclear consequences of prolonged exposure to low doses. One plausible mechanism of damage to cellular biomolecules is mediated through reactive oxygen species. Inspired by encouraging preliminary data in legume crop on differentially abundant proteins involved in defense responses and non-systematic field observations of increased infestation of the wild aquatic plant by mites, we propose this original research. The central hypothesis of the project is compromised phytoimmunity through oxidative damage of regulatory proteins in aquatic plants, particularly common reed (Phragmites australis), naturally grown in contaminated lakes of the Chernobyl exclusion zone. Upon initial verification of preliminary field data with laboratory bioassays, we will discover biochemical mechanisms by front-end proteomics. In parallel, we will explore the most common modifications of proteins during oxidative imbalance—carbonylations. Findings from the screening stage will be validated using targeted enzymatic, immunolocalization, and gene expression assays. Essentially, the unbiased approach of this proposal might close the intriguing knowledge gap in fundamental radiobiology and produce relevant practical knowledge for the monitoring or potential use of contaminated lakes. This project will enable the establishing of an independent research group of the Principal Investigator and starting a collaboration between sufficiently equipped academic laboratories with complementary expertise. |
Chronic ionizing radiation affects susceptibility to pests in wild aquatic plants: Discovery and validation of biochemical mechanisms
Chronické ionizujúce žiarenie ovplyvňuje odolnosť divorastúcich vodných rastlín proti škodcom: Objav a potvrdenie biochemických mechanizmov
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0106/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Danchenko Maksym PhD. |
| Annotation: | Most environmental pollutants, including radionuclides, are persistent; hence, they chronically influence plants. Ionizing radiation is a ubiquitous stress factor with unclear consequences of prolonged exposure to low doses. Likely mechanism of damage to cellular biomolecules is mediated through reactive oxygen species. The central hypothesis of this project is compromised phytoimmunity in aquatic plants, particularly common reed (Phragmites australis), naturally grown in contaminated lakes of the Chernobyl exclusion zone. Upon initial verification, with laboratory feeding bioassays, we will explore biochemical mechanisms by front-end proteomics, including oxidative stress-related protein carbonylations. These findings will be validated and complemented using targeted enzymatic and immunolocalization assays. Essentially, the unbiased approach of this project will close the intriguing knowledge gap in fundamental radiobiology and produce practical knowledge for the monitoring of contaminated lakes. |
The integrative taxonomy of Elmidae and Dryopidae (Insecta: Coleoptera) from Borneo - one of the major evolutionary biodiversity hotspots
Integratívna taxonómia Elmidae a Dryopidae (Insecta: Coleoptera) ostrova Borneo - významného evolučného hotspotu biodiverzity
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 1/0541/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Čiampor Fedor PhD. |
| Annotation: | Borneo, along with part of Indochina, is one of Southeast Asia’s major evolutionary biodiversity hotspots. Its recent fauna is probably the result of in situ diversification associated with the accumulation of immigrants. The beetles of the families Elmidae and Dryopidae are morphologically and physiologically adapted to life in the aquatic environment. However, some genera of Dryopidae (e.g. Sostea, Geoparnus, Spalacosostea) are adapted to live in soil, leaf litter, or vegetation. The diversity and evolution of these groups’ are little explored, despite the almost cosmopolitan distribution and importance of organisms in eco-enviro studies. The project addresses the issues of taxonomy and phylogeny of Bornean species through an integrative taxonomy approach based on mitochondrial and nuclear markers in combination with morphological features and tries to identify common evolutionary patterns and trends in phylogeny and distribution. |
Combined management as a tool for conservation and restoration of grassland habitats
Kombinovaný manažment ako nástroj na ochranu a obnovu travinnobylinných biotopov
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0065/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Janišová Monika PhD. |
| Annotation: | Protection, enhancement, and potential extension of the biodiversity-rich areas is a top priority of policies within the states, continents or globally. The most recent EU Green Deal Call identified biodiversity and ecosystems as key areas capable of improving the quality of the landscape and mitigating the effects of climate change. Semi-natural habitats are those areas, where most of the action can be taken. Low-intensity traditional farming maintained in mountain regions of the Carpathians is an inspiration for diversification of modern agroecosystems. However, the mechanisms of enhancing grassland biodiversity by diversification and combination of farming practices is still insufficiently known. In our project we would like to investigate multiple aspects of the selected combinations of traditional management practices - mowing, grazing, and manuring - and establish a manipulative experiment to test their effects on biodiversity if used as a restoration intervention in modern agricultural landscapes. |
Maryna Kryvokhyzha, R2 - Postdoctoral Fellow
Maryna Kryvokhyzha, R2 - Postdoktorand
| Duration: | 1. 3. 2023 - 28. 2. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V01-00142 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Kryvokhyzha Maryna PhD. |
| Annotation: | xx |
-
Mikroskopické sinice a riasy ako významný zdroj exopolysacharidov
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0054/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Hindáková Alica PhD. |
SYTDEV - Molecular dissection of synaptotagmins and their roles in the development of land plants
Molekulárna analýza synaptotagmínov a ich úlohy vo vývine suchozemských rastlín
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0463 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | doc. RNDr. Jásik Ján DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Surprisingly, plant genomes contain homologs of genes that were thought to be typical for animal organisms. Plant synaptotagmins (SYTs), homologs of calcium sensors in animal neurons, are one of them. In the model organism Arabidopsis thaliana, the dominant AtSYT1 is involved in responses to various biotic and abiotic stresses. The roles of other family members are poorly understood. The particular expression patterns of AtSYTs found in our previous studies suggest that these genes are involved development of specific tissues. By complex analysis of single and multiple atsyt mutants, we aim to determine in which developmental programs of higher plants the AtSYT genes participated. In this project, we will also study SYT genes in the moss Physcomitrium patents and take advantage of the unique benefits of this model organism. We will characterize the spatio-temporal expression pattern of PpSYT genes at different levels. We will further analyze the distribution and intracellular dynamics of PpSYT proteins during different developmental stages. Using homologous recombination, we will create plant lines with GUS and GFP markers, and CRISPR/Cas9 techniques will be employed to inactivate single or multiple PpSYT genes. Using reverse genetics, cell biology and biochemistry approaches, we will analyze the function of PpSYT genes during entire plant ontogenesis. The project will contribute to understanding the role of SYT genes in the development of higher and lower plant and the phylogenesis of the SYT genes. |
Molecular cloning and biochemical characterisation of a peculiar protease from carnivorous sundew
Molekulárne klonovanie a biochemická charakterizácia unikátnej proteázy z mäsožravej rosičky
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00573 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Danchenko Monika PhD. |
Unraveling the drivers of within-species variation and diversification in plant species with restricted distribution ranges
Návratová projektová schéma SAV pre rodičov po návrate z materskej a /alebo rodičovskej dovolenky - Objasnenie hnacích síl vnútrodruhovej variability a diverzifikácie v rastlinných druhoch s obmedzeným areálom rozšírenia
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | NPS-Melichárková |
| Program: | Iné projekty |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Melichárková Andrea PhD. |
CARBODNA - Aptamer-based analytical platform for in vitro and in situ analyses of complex carbohydrates
Nová analytická platforma pre in situ a in vitro analýzy komplexných sacharidov na báze aptamérov
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2022 - 31. 8. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | IM-2021-230 |
| Program: | IMPULZ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Mravec Jozef PhD. |
| Annotation: | Complex carbohydrates are some of the most important biopolymers. They provide a sustainable source of materials, and energy and are a major part of human and animal diets. Due to their high molecular weight and high complexity, the determination of the precise amount and structure of these molecules is extremely technically challenging. For instance, one of the currently used methods called Compositional Microarray Polymer Profiling exhibits several serious drawbacks such as the requirement for a high level of expertise, expensive equipment, and is very costly and time-consuming. The CARBODNA project aims to make a leap forward in the area and develop a novel analytical platform based on aptamers sometimes also called synthetic or chemical antibodies. These are fragments of polynucleotides with the ability to bind target molecules with high specificity and avidity comparable to conventional monoclonal antibodies. The initial task of the project is to generate aptamers specific for polysaccharide components of plant cell walls, especially for those still lacking any specific immunological probes as well as novel aptamers for macromolecular 3D structures such as intermolecular interactions forming the intricate cell wall architecture. These new probing tools will be utilized to create a new system for quantification and compositional profiling of samples of different origin utilizing common well-established methods of molecular biology as well as for detailed imaging of the cell wall ultrastructure. Finally, the new technology will be applied to study the dynamics of cell walls during plant somatic embryogenesis and cellular elongation. |
Unraveling of functional diversity and ecological role of fungi of the family Clavariaceae
Objasnenie funkčnej diverzity a ekologickej úlohy húb čeľade Clavariaceae
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0050/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Caboň Miroslav PhD. |
| Annotation: | Clavariaceae are terrestrial fungi (Basidiomacetes, Agaricomycotina) with club or corral shaped fruiting bodies known as indicators of natural value of grasslands. Several studies demonstrated that Clavariaceae are root endophytes and may form an unspecified symbiosis with vascular plants. Diversity, habitat specificity and trophic interaction of the group are not well understood. This project aims to explore Clavariaceae diversity both by Sanger sequencing of targeted DNA regions using samples from fruiting bodies and by metabarcoding using high throughput sequencing of soil and plant root samples. Phylogenetic studies based on multi-loci data from Sanger sequences and morphology will be used to distinguish species diversity of the group. Our aim is to asses overall local Clavariaceae diversity in grasslands and to distinguish Clavariaceae endophyte diversity and plant specifity. We will use data from amplicon sequencing of bulk soil, rhizosphere and plant roots. This project have ambition to test possible in vitro cultivation of Clavariaceae with partner plants that may facilitate further studies of trophic style of these fungi. |
Uncovering cryptic diversity and evolution in polyploid species complexes
Objasnenie skrytej diverzity a evolúcie v polyploidných komplexoch druhov
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00489 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Zozomová Judita PhD. |
Olena Bielikova, R2—Postdoctoral Fellow
Olena Bielikova, R2 – Postdoktorand
| Duration: | 1. 10. 2022 - 30. 9. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V01-00075 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Bielikova Olena PhD. |
| Annotation: | The aim of the project is, firstly, to enable fellow from Ukraine to analyse her own samples in order to continue her research topics (genetic structure of salmonids in order to preserve the species diversity of ichthyocenoses of rivers of the western region of Ukraine, study of genetic diversity of different groups of fish in reservoirs of Ukraine). Dr Bielikova's involvement in our activities will be mainly focused on field research, molecular analyses and data processing within the projects VEGA 2/0084/21 (eDNA metabarcoding of freshwater ecosystems) and APVV-21-0386 (Research on pollinator biodiversity based on DNA analysis). |
Olha Lakhneko, R2—Postdoctoral Fellow
Olha Lakhneko, R2 – Postdoktorand
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2022 - 31. 7. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V01-00005 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Lakhneko Olha PhD. |
| Annotation: | XX |
-
Optimalizácia izolácie exozómov z Juniperus communis L. a charakterizácia exozomálneho proteómu použitím LC-MS/MS
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APD0113 |
| Program: | PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Jurčík Ján PhD. |
| Annotation: | Juniperus communis L. is an evergreen coniferous shrub, which along with other representatives of its genus, has long been utilized in traditional medicine, gastronomy, pharmaceuticals, and alcoholic beverages, due to their content of biologically active compounds. Exosomes are nano-sized vesicular phospholipid particles commonly secreted from eukaryotic cells into the extracellular space, and currently, extensive research is underway for their potential therapeutic and diagnostic purposes. Plant-derived exosome-like particles (PDENs) are significant in terms of their cargo, as they contain DNA, RNA, lipids, and proteins, which are subsequently released into the extracellular matrix as a form of cellular communication and have the potential to deliver nano-bioactive compounds into the human body. My project aims to optimize the isolation of PDENs from mature fruits of Juniperus communis L., and to be the first to characterize the proteome of isolated PDENs from Juniperus communis L. The potential application of PDENs is significant and our results will contribute to a better understanding of the functioning of PDENs and exosomes in organisms. |
Amaranth plasticity in response to heavy metals: multi-scale analysis from ecophysiological to molecular aspects
Plasticita láskavca v odpovedi na ťažké kovy: viacstupňová analýza od ekofyziologických po molekulárne aspekty
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0013/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Ing. Hricová Andrea PhD. |
| Annotation: | Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) gained popularity in the recent past due to its agronomic and exceptional nutritional properties. The growth and developmental characteristics make this plant also suitable for remediation of areas contaminated by metal ions. The main goal of the project is investigation of Amaranthus spp. plasticity in response to selected heavy metals (HM) through multiscale analysis of growth, morphology, ecophysiological performance, biochemical status, and ionome profile, primary related to stress. Moreover, identification of HM-regulated amaranth genes will be performed. Since endophytes facilitate adaptation to stressors and improve the effectiveness of phytoremediation of the host plants, metagenomic survey of the biodiversity of endophyte communities in the amaranth plants exposed to tested HM will be implemented. In addition, we assess silicon as a beneficial element in preventing the adverse effects of metal ions on investigated plant characteristics and traits. |
DECISION - Understanding of complex biodiversity response to forest management: integration of multi-taxa approach in ecosystem function assessments
Pochopenie komplexnej odpovede biodiverzity na lesný manažment: integrácia multi-taxonomického prístupu v hodnotení ekosystémových funkcií
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0097/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Šibík Jozef PhD. |
| Annotation: | XX |
Integrative Bioinformatics Analysis of Next Generation Sequencing Data for Advanced Plant Research
Pokročilý výskum rastlín prostredníctvom analýzy údajov NGS
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00494 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Šlenker Marek PhD. |
| Annotation: | The rapid progress in botany, particularly in the area of plant phylogeny and the investigation of the origin of polyploid species, can undoubtedly be attributed to the widespread application of new generation sequencing methods (NGS) in recent years and concurrent development of bioinformatics tools designed to process such data. While these methods are generally universal and broadly applicable, there is an increasing recognition of the need for customized approaches that consider the unique characteristics of the plant species under study. This project's primary objective is to provide innovative, custom tailored bioinformatics solutions for the analysis of NGS data, obtaining answers to specific scientific questions. The developed scripts and tools will be made openly available, facilitating their use by other researchers in their studies and allowing for potential modifications to ensure further development. |
Polina Dayneko, R2—Postdoctoral Fellow
Polina Dayneko, R2 – Postdoktorand
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2022 - 31. 8. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 883/2022 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Dayneko Polina PhD. |
| Annotation: | The project aims to integrate a Ukrainian postdoctoral researcher into three national research projects. Within them, she will assist in field research and preparation of joint publications. |
URPON - Ponds in the urban environment - biodiversity, non-native biota and ecological quality
Pondy v mestskom prostredí – biodiverzita, nepôvodná biota a ekologická kvalita
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0044/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Ing. Čejka Tomáš PhD. |
| Annotation: | The project is focused on studying the benthic invertebrate community structure of poorly known urban limnic habitats (so-called ponds), which are essential as potential sources of biodiversity of native and non-native species and as centres of dispersal of non-native species. The main objective is to understand the patterns of biodiversity of urban ponds, with emphasis on [1] comparing the importance of different types of ponds for the conservation of native biodiversity, [2] the penetration and survival of non-native macrozoobenthos species in urban environments, and [3] the origin and direction of dispersal of their populations of model non-native species based on genetic analyses. For the research, we selected ten Slovak cities in the Carpathian and Pannonian ecoregions with a representation of different types of ponds. The results of the detailed systematic research will contribute to the existing fragmentary knowledge in understanding the causal relationships between diversity, distribution and environmental status of these habitats. |
Plant calpains and their molecular mode of action in cell fate control
Rastlinné kalpaíny a ich molekulárny mechanizmus kontroly bunkovej identity
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2022 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-21-0227 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | doc. RNDr. Jásik Ján DrSc. |
| Annotation: | XX |
RET-EVOL-BRASS - Reticulate or divergent evolution? Resolving processes behind the high species richness and endemism in Brassicaceae genera
Retikulátna alebo divergentná evolúcia? Objasnenie procesov, ktoré stoja za veľkou druhovou bohatosťou a endemizmom v rodoch čeľade Brassicaceae
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2022 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-21-0044 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | prof. RNDr. Marhold Karol DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Reticulate evolution is a challenging research topic, which has gained increased attention in recent years, stimulated by the progress made in genomic research and developments of new scientific techniques and approaches. It is now widely recognized that introgression and hybridization significantly affect plant evolution, but there is still much to discover and understand about these processes and their impact on diversification and speciation. The proposed research focuses on reticulate evolution in four genera of the Brassicaceae family (Alyssum, Cardamine, Erysimum, and Odontarrhena). Here we aim to explore in detail how reticulation events have shaped the evolution of the studied genera, to test whether the high endemism rate reflects multiple independent polyploidization events or increased diversification of polyploid lineages. We will also examine how historical and recent range shifts have stimulated introgression and allopolyploid speciation, and track the mode and rate of allopolyploid genome evolution. We will take an integrative approach that will combine methods of phylogenomics (RADseq and HybSeq techniques of next generation sequencing, complemented by microsatellite markers), cytogenomics, flow cytometry, morphometrics and ecological niche modeling. Bringing together data from diverse sources provides complementary views and different perspectives on the patterns and processes studied. Our studies, focusing on several unrelated species groups, will also include a comparative aspect, go beyond species- or genus-specific patterns, and attempt to infer common and general mechanisms of reticulate evolution in plants. |
REFLECT - Revolutionizing the Future: Enhancing Forest Biomass Mapping and Carbon Sequestration Estimation through Remote Sensing Technologies
Revolučná budúcnosť: Zlepšovanie mapovania lesnej biomasy a odhadu viazania uhlíka pomocou technológií diaľkového prieskumu zeme.
| Duration: | 1. 3. 2025 - 28. 2. 2029 |
| Evidence number: | MVP VV 24-0412 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Šibík Jozef PhD. |
| Annotation: | Mapping and monitoring the above-ground biomass (AGB) of forest stands are critical for understanding and mitigating climate change, supporting sustainable development, and meeting human needs. Accurate AGB estimation helps in carbon cycle monitoring, policy-making, and sustainable forest management. The primary goals of the REFLECT project when identifying, designing, verifying, and determining various aspects related to mapping and monitoring the above-ground biomass of forest stands are to improve quantification accuracy, support climate change mitigation, aid sustainable development, and enhance policy-making through advanced methodologies, remote sensing, and machine learning. This exploration is driven by advanced remote sensing methods known as Remote Sensing of the Earth (RSE). Building upon this foundation, the REFLECT project aims to integrate expertise in creating precise 3D spatial data with disciplines such as dendrology, botany, and the physiological processes within an ecosystem. The project recognizes the interconnectedness of the carbon cycle and various ecosystem components, emphasizing the holistic perspective required to understand these relationships in both space and time. This will be achieved through the use of new technologies and DPRS (Digital Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing) methods. The initial phase of the research focuses on experiments that generate spatial 3D data from different perspectives and scales. Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) is employed to create highly detailed and accurate environment models, while satellite image evaluation provides a broader view of large-scale ecosystems at the expense of lower detail. The spatial data will be complemented by integrated analytical tools for advanced measurements of CO₂ flux in forest ecosystems. By fusing data from various sources and encouraging interdisciplinary, convergent collaboration, the accuracy of biomass and carbon sequestration estimation can be improved to meet societal requirements. The overarching aim of the REFLECT project is to address a significant gap by developing a comprehensive methodology for quantifying carbon in ecosystems using RSE technologies that span from the lithosphere to the exosphere. By doing so, the project aims to contribute to global knowledge, facilitate interdisciplinary knowledge transfer, and advance forest ecosystem research in unexplored directions. |
Impact of climate change on the distribution of selected pathogens of Pinus sp. trees
Rozšírenie vybraných škodlivých patogénov Pinus sp. vzhľadom ku klimatickej zmene
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0132/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Senko Dušan PhD. |
| Annotation: | XX |
Hydrogen sulfide and nitric oxide: indispensable gaseous signaling molecules in plant defense responses to abiotic stress
Sírovodík a oxid dusnatý: nepostrádateľné plynné signálne molekuly v obranných reakciách rastlín na abiotický stres
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0059/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Tamás Ladislav PhD. |
| Annotation: | Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and nitric oxide (NO), small gaseous signaling molecules, are very likely involved in all developmental and stress-related processes in plants. Complex interconnection of different signaling pathways results in the both synergistic and antagonistic effect of H2S and NO; depending on their concentrations, cell type, redox status and phytohormones levels of plant cells. In order to gain more insight into the role of these signaling pathways in the response of barley root to stress conditions, the aim of the present project is the analysis of NO and H2S function in stress responses, using bioactive molecules to activate and/or to block some specific components of NO and H2S metabolic and signaling pathways. In addition, this approach may uncover the role of NO- and H2S-regulated physiological and biochemical processes involved in both defense and toxic responses of barley roots to unfavorable environmental conditions. |
-
Sledovanie vplyvu zasolenia na diverzitu endofytických baktérií so zameraním na identifikáciu halotolerantných druhov zvyšujúcich stresovú toleranciu láskavca
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APD0022 |
| Program: | PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: | MVDr. Kačírová Jana PhD. |
| Annotation: | Plants are exposed to many biotic and abiotic stress factors during their life cycle. Soil salinity is one of the main abiotic stresses that adversely affect crop growth and production. In an effort to reduce the adverse effects of salt stress on plants, many strategies are used such as genetic modifications, application of beneficial elements or inoculation of plant growth promoting bacteria. Endophytic bacteria are a group of microorganisms that live in internal plant tissues. It has been shown, that endophytes help plants cope with stress through several mechanisms. However, it is not known what changes in the composition of the plant microbial community occur due to the increased concentration of salt in the soil. The aim of the project will be to monitor changes in the representation of endophytic bacteria with increasing salt concentration using next-generation sequencing. The object of investigation will be two varieties of amaranth (Amaranthus spp.), which in recent years has been considered a promising pseudocereal for its high nutritional and functional value. The expected benefit of the project will be knowledge about changes in the diversity of bacterial communities in amaranth varieties with different sensitivity to the presence of higher salt concentration and the possibility of using halotolerant species of bacteria for induced resistance and supporting plants in cope with salt stress. |
STRAKA - Tree and country – influence of trees on diversity of soil microorganisms in agricultural land
Strom a krajina – vplyv drevín na diverzitu pôdnych mikroorganizmov v poľnohospodárskej krajine
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0257 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Adamčík Slavomír PhD. |
| Annotation: | Solitary tree standing out of continual forest vegetation has well-known positive and negative impacts on grasslands and arable cultures. Close vicinity of tree causes light and wind interception resulting in change of herbal diversity of grasslands or inhibited growth of crop plants in arable agricultures. Positive influences of tree presence are local enhancing of biological diversity associated with improved ecosystem function. Soil fertility, stability of ecosystem and sustainable land management essentially depends on soil quality. Soil microorganisms are very susceptible to changes in soil characteristics and play the fundamental role in nutrient recycling and stability of ecosystem. Changes in microbial communities connected to presence of trees are underexplored but very actual with current effort to improve landscape structure. Trees are associated with specific groups of fungi; among them are highlighted ectomycorrhizal fungi. Soil of semi-natural grasslands is often dominated by probably biothrophic basidiomycetes and ascomycetes known as CHEGD fungi. In arable soils, special importance is attributed to arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and presence of parasitic fungi. This project aims to study representation of fungi with symbiotic, saprophytic, parasitic or other trophic guilds resulted from interaction of tree presence in agricultural land. In addition, we will evaluate selected abiotic and biotic soil characteristics to estimate changes in functional diversity. Project uses advances methods in sequencing of environmental DNA, soil analyses and computer modelling of special influence of ecological factors. |
Study of hydrolases involved in digestion in carnivorous plants of the genus Drosera
Štúdium hydroláz zúčastňujúcich sa procesov trávenia v mäsožravých rastlinách rodu Drosera
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0021/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Ing. Libantová Jana CSc. |
| Annotation: | Carnivorous plants, including species of the genus Drosera, use a mixture of enzymes secreted by stalked glands of the leaf cuticle - the tentacles - to digest their prey. The proposed project involves the analysis of leaf proteins, including those involved in digestion, by a proteomic approach. Based on this, we will select a new hydrolase for more detailed study. Available orthologous gene sequences of related plant species will be used for primer design, and then the gene fragment and the complete gene will be isolated by PCR. The expression profile of the gene under investigation in the individual organs of Drosera plants will also be analysed. The project also includes the introduction of a eukaryotic expression system for the production and characterisation of proteins with post-translational modifications. Based on the results of previous research, some additional enzyme characteristics of purified chitinases and glucanases from carnivorous plants with potential for biotechnology will be investigated. |
POLINES - Bees cannot make it all - DNA metabarcoding analysis of pollinator biodiversity for improving their protection and ecosystem services
Včely všetko nestihnú – DNA metabarkódingová analýza biodiverzity opeľovačov pre zlepšenie ich ochrany a ekosystémových služieb
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2022 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-21-0386 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Čiampor Fedor PhD. |
| Annotation: | According to many sources, we are witnessing a massive loss of biodiversity, with potentially catastrophic consequences for humanity. Pollinators, which are indispensable for agriculture, nutrition, ecosystems functioning and maintenance of their services, are also critically endangered. However, the real diversity of pollinators and the composition of their communities are unknown and without relevant data, their effective conservation is not possible. We therefore need to significantly improve knowledge and innovate biodiversity research practices. Conventional methods are lengthy, costly and error-prone, which reduces the predictive value of the results. DNA (meta)barcoding is now revolutionising our ability to assess biodiversity across a range of habitats. The approach is efficient and easy to implement, making it a 21st century tool for large-scale biodiversity research and monitoring. The project builds on recent advances in DNA metabarcoding of biota and uses DNA data analysis in combination with environmental factors to assess the biodiversity status of pollinators. Environmental DNA (eDNA) from flowers will also be used, which is a unique and innovative approach to biodiversity surveys of this important group of animals so far. The main objectives of the project are (a) DNA metabarcoding analysis of pollinator biodiversity associated with three model crops (oilseed rape, poppy, apple), (b) estimation of the impact of environmental factors on pollinator diversity, (c) estimation of the impact of pollinator biodiversity on crop yields, and (d) significant addition of unique pollinator fauna data to reference DNA barcoding databases. The outputs of the project will improve the general knowledge of biodiversity, enhance the possibilities for routine application of DNA methods in the future and provide a knowledge base for more effective informed decision making in the context of adaptation to climate change and sustainable development. |
Inland saline habitats in Central Europe: islands of specific diversity in the midst of changes of natural ecosystems
Vnútrozemské slaniská strednej Európy: ostrovy špecifickej diverzity v čase výrazných zmien prírodného prostredia
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0019/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Dítě Daniel PhD. |
| Annotation: | The proposal follows up on the results of a long-term research on inland saline habitats in the Pannonian Lowland and adjacent regions in central Europe. We aim to detect the main causes of spatio-temporal vegetation changes in time intervals of 5 to 20 years from regional scale to the entire Pannonian area. We evaluate the impact of land use and restoration activities on saline vegetation obtained from data from a baseline study on permanent plots in several sites across the Podunajská nížina Lowland (Slovakia). Furthermore, we delineate the borders of halophytic vegetation within the contact plant communities of all habitat types, which is required to explicitly describe the content of these European priority habitats threatened by land use changes. Finally, an insectological survey about the distribution and ecological relationships of orthopteran assemblages indicating natural saline grasslands aims to fill a research gap in the plant-fauna interactions, focused on the less explored Pannonian subregions. |
Influence of the cell wall proteins on embryogenic capacity of selected of conifers
Vplyv proteínov bunkovej steny na embryogénnu kapacitu pri vybraných druhoch ihličnanov
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0032/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Klubicová Katarína PhD. |
| Annotation: | Cell wall (CW) is a complex and dynamic structure of plant cells which controls growth and morphology of plants during development and in response to the environment. Despite being present in low amount in CW, proteins play a key role in various processes and many of them are potentialy useful in biotechnology. Somatic embryogenesis (SE) represents an efficient plant regeneration system for theoretical studies as well as for mass propagation, especially in conifers. Process occuring during SE needs deeper understanding to use the regeneration system for conifer micropropagation more effectively. The aim of the submitted proposal is investigation of a CWPs potentially important during the induction of embryogenic tissue of selected conifers by proteomic approach. Obtained results may serve as a basis for SE markers suggestion and contribute to better understanding of the SE in woody plants. |
Developing leaf traps of carnivorous sundews: Source of unique hydrolases with a high potential in biotechnology
Vývin listových pascí mäsožravých rastlín rosičky: Zdroj unikátnych hydroláz s možnosťami využitia v biotechnológiách
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0448 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Ing. Libantová Jana CSc. |
ApFlax - Development of an aptamer-based approach for studying flax fibre cell wall diversity
Vývoj prístupu pre štúdium diverzity bunkovej steny ľanového vlákna založeného na aptaméroch
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00525 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Ing. Harenčár Ľubomír PhD. |
| Annotation: | One of the possible strategies for sustainability is to find new ways of utilizing underappreciated native crops, which requires new analytical approaches. Linum usitatissimum L., as a multipurpose crop closely linked to Slovak culture, is a suitable candidate for describing the properties of the fibre cell wall using aptamers. Various analyses have been employed to assess the biodiversity of flax as well as to characterise cell wall properties. However, there is still a lack of novel effective tools for answering the questions: what distinguishes fibre and oil type of flax, and what role does the composition and structure of the cell wall play in this distinction? These answers are important not only for plant biology, as flax fibre is a great example of a non-conventional cell wall, but also for the production of high-quality flax fibre, especially in dual-purpose varieties. Current molecular probes for cell wall analysis have limitations in targeting a broad range of structures with precision. Aptamers, short single-stranded DNA or RNA molecules, are synthesized in vitro through SELEX (systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment). While extensively applied in biomedical and environmental research, their use in cell wall research is emerging. The aim of this project is to develop novel respectively select existing aptamers specific to the flax fibre cell wall, which are capable of distinguishing between fibre- and oil-type flax, as well as quantifying and describing flax cell wall properties. Keywords: Carbohydrate synthesis, modification and turnover; Applied genetic engineering, transgenic organisms, recombinant proteins, biosensors; Agriculture related to crop production, applied plant biology; Linum usitatissimum L.; Aptamer |
EVOPLROHA - The role of reproductive systems, hybridization, and symbiosis in the evolution and long-term survival of vascular plants in a rocky environment
Význam reprodukčných systémov, hybridizácie a symbiotickej asociácie pre evolúciu a prežívanie cievnatých rastlín v prostredí skalných biotopov
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0365 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Slovák Marek PhD. |
| Annotation: | Non-forest rocky habitats represent ecological islands within the surrounding landscape, and despite their challenging environmental conditions, they are biodiversity hotspots, harboring exceptional species diversity and a high proportion of relic and endemic species. Nevertheless, due to their high inaccessibility, rocky plant species have received far less attention than their counterparts in adjacent ecosystems. Consequently, the mechanisms and factors underlying their adaptability and evolution have remained elusive, despite the fact that this knowledge is crucial for their conservation and long-term survival, particularly in light of global climatic changes. We plan to investigate the significance of selected intrinsic and extrinsic traits on long-lived shrubby species of the genus Daphne (Thymeleaceae) as a model system using cutting-edge techniques (RADseq-based genomics, metabarcoding, among others) combined with computer niche modeling, karyological, and morphological analyses. The major aims of this project are to compare the overall genetic structure and level of clonality of two rock specialists, D. arbuscula (West Carpathians) and D. petraea (Southern Alps), to the more common, still relic, and rare D. cneorum. We will also focus on the level of interspecific hybridization and introgression, as well as the diversity of mycorrhizal assemblages in the studied rock species, and develop hypotheses about their role in the adaptation and survival of both species in hostile rocky habitats. We hope that our investigation will provide novel information not only about the target species but also on the evolution and adaptation of rock-dwelling species to the challenging environment of mid-elevation altitudinal rocky habitats in the temperate zone. We believe that the project's outcomes will provide critical information for addressing conservation strategies and, thus, ensuring the long-term survival of these valuable and rare species of European flora. |
Yuliia Kutsokon, R2—Postdoctoral Fellow
Yuliia Kutsokon, R2 – Postdoktorand
| Duration: | 1. 10. 2022 - 30. 9. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V01-00004 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Kutsokon Yuliia PhD. |
| Annotation: | xx |
Living on the edge. Evolutionary and bioecological aspects of narrow endemic Daphne arbuscula Čelak. (Thymelaeaceae) inhabiting extreme rocky habitats
Život na hrane. Evolučné a bioekologické aspekty stenoendemického druhu Daphne arbuscula Čelak. (Thymelaeaceae) obývajúceho extrémne skalné biotopy
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0098/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Ing. Kučera Jaromír PhD. |
| Annotation: | xx |
Projects total: 63