Vladimir Stojanovic

The Importance of Preservation of Autochthonous Biotope of Pannonian Plane in the Area of Special Nature Reserve “Pašnjaci Velike Droplje“ for Education and Ecotourism Development

In the past the region of Vojvodina was dominated by vast steppes, saline areas, marshes and flooded terrains. Wet terrains were converted into steppes during the Holocene climate changes, but the land under cultivation is gradually taking their place, too. Autochthonous biotope is preserved in some regons of Vojvodina. These regions are under state protection. Special nature reserve “Pašnjaci velike droplje“ consists of saline areas and vast steppes and it is the only habitat of Great Bustard in Serbia. Reserve is located in north Banat. Devolpment of ecotourism is based upon endangered ornithology species, heterogeneous fauna as well as upon up the educational purpose of the reserve. There are also possibilities for organizing of photo safaris and nature schools in the reserve. In order to protect autochthonous biotope, legal regulations on protection should be obeyed, fields should be revitalized i.e. they should be transformed into former state of natural mosaic of vast steppes and saline areas.