Distribution of species of Thymus L. (Lamiaceae) genus on the territory of Chernivtsi region (Ukraine)

The study of plant species distribution using the grid mapping method is an important information source in the modern period of development of floristics, phytogeography and phytosozology. This method appears highly perspective for distribution mapping of taxonomically difficult plant groups to which Thymus L. (Lamiaceae Martinov) genus belongs. The details of distribution of five Thymus species on the territory of Chernivtsi region are determined, mapped and analyzed. Each species is characterized by its distribution within the main natural-geographic areas of the region, list of the examined herbarium specimens, schematic grid distribution map, and additional notes regarding its general range and ecological features. The majority of cited localities of thyme species are based on the herbarium specimens collected during the last century. Thus, the present study might become a precondition of new expeditions intended to confirm the old chorological data and detect previously unknown localities of the studied species in Chernivtsi region