Fragm. Flor. et Geobot. Pol.

Abstract:
The findings of the investigations concern Viscum album L., Viscaceae. The knowledge status related to its taxonomic position, phylogenesis and origin on the European continent, as well as its endophytic system have been analysed. Physiological issues included the mechanism of uptake and accumulation of chemical elements – both those necessary for living and toxic ones. It has been found out that common mistletoe produces over 100 organic compounds. A wide range of Viscum album hosts in Poland (194 taxa) has been analysed. In Poland there are 3 Viscum album subspecies (subsp. abietis, subsp. album and subsp. austriacum). It has been found that the number of sites of the mentioned subspecies amounts to 4784. The most frequent in occurrence is V. a. subsp. album (78,41% of sites). During the author's investigation conducted in Olsztyn Lake District (Poland) in 1989, 900 specimens of V. album were collected, their 6 traits and population structure were analysed. The intensity of fructification and biomass production, depending on biotic and abiotic factors, were studied. In addition, the age and sex structures were investigated. Within the age structure, 6 age classes were distinguished (I‑VI). The age class II specimens (10–14 years) and class III specimens (15–19 years) constituted 87% of the whole population (900 specimens). Within the sex structure, a dominations of females specimens over male specimens (M:F = 1:7.55, sex ratio) was found. Besides, the utilization, control and protection of Viscum album were analysed. Its traits against other parasitic species were compared and its role in biological sciences was analysed.