Acta Biologica Sibirica

Assessment of landscape ecological stability in the border postvirgin regions of the Urals and Siberia

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

In the steppe regions of the Urals and Siberia bordering the Republic of Kazakhstan (RK), there is a noticeable spatial dynamics of the land fund structure and the environmental sustainability of the territory, characterized by geographical peculiarities and confinement to international transport communications. The border municipalities of the Orenburg Oblast are characterized by a greater relative size of agricultural lands, agricultural lands, hayfields, and pastures with a smaller share of arable lands, perennial plantations, and non-agricultural lands. The index of landscape ecological stability (ILES, 1.13) is 0.29 p.p. higher than that of the oblast as a whole (0.84) and corresponds to a conditionally stable state. In the Altai Krai municipalities bordering with the RK there is an excess of the regional average relative values for the area of SPNA (specially protected nature areas), pastures, non-agricultural lands and fallow lands, a close share of agricultural land and a smaller share of agricultural land, arable land, perennial plantations and hay fields. The average ILES value (1.08) is 0.09 p.p. lower than in Altai Krai as a whole and 0.05 p.p. lower than in the border municipalities of the Orenburg Oblast. The location of bordering municipalities to international transport communications is accompanied by a trend towards decreasing ILES. To a greater extent, it is connected with the increasing share of arable land in the structure of land, especially in territories predisposed to the production of marginal crops (oilseeds, melons).

Lepidoptera of South Ossetia (Northern Transcaucasia). Part IV. Microlepidoptera: Adelidae to Choreutidae

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

A list of 143 species of Microlepidoptera from 27 families is provided, compiled based on the results of processing materials collected in 2021−2022; all species are recorded for the first time for the territory of South Ossetia.

The contribution of the "Darwin Initiative" collection in the Lake Baikal benthic diatom survey

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The joint Russian-British collection "Darwin Initiative. Benthic samples of Lake Baikal", was established at the end of the 1990s. Here we briefly overview the data on the survey of the Lake Baikal coastal diatom diversity obtained exclusively using the materials from the collection and methods of light and scanning electron microscopy. The collection contains over 500 initial samples taken at 53 stations of the lake littoral zone from depths 1–20 m. Studying the samples Russian and foreign algologists have identified many new for science diatom taxa, including over 20 genera and 750 species. Data on the collection survey are published in six monographs and atlases, and more than 20 scientific papers. The observed patterns of diversity, distribution, and levels of endemicity in different taxa of Lake Baikal benthic diatoms are discussed.

First record of the invasive bark beetle Polygraphus proximus Blandford (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae) in the Republic of Kazakhstan

Sat, 25 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The four-eyed fir bark beetle, Polygraphus proximus Blandford, 1894 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae), is an aggressive invasive species originating from Far East. Over the past two decades, it distributed across Siberia, traversed the Urals and invaded some regions of the European part of Russia. In the secondary range, the pest kills heathy tree stands of Siberian fir, Abies sibirica Ledeb. (Pinaceae), both in native forests and man-made plantings, resulting in profound ecological and economic consequences. Here we report the first documented occurrence of this invasive pest in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Infested Siberian fir trees were discovered in the forest nearby Karaguzhikha village (East Kazakhstan Region), approximately 43 km away from Novoaleiskoye village (Altai Territory, Russia), where the pest was detected in 2016. The presence of trees colonized by the invasive pest and dead trees with specific symptoms in the examined forest stand suggest that P. proximus has likely been present in northeastern Kazakhstan for around a decade. The illustrations of affected habitat, male and female beetles and their morphological features are provided, and the early data on the damage caused by P. proximus and the potential for range expansions are discussed. The monitoring would be required to define the actual frontier of the pest distribution in Kazakhstan. Furthermore, it is imperative to alert the relevant authorities in Kazakhstan about the potential threat posed by this invasive tree-killer to native fir stands in the country.

Specific peculiarities of woody-tree radial growth in icing areas of the Altai mountains

Nikolay I. Bykov, Natalia V. Rygalova, Anna A. Shigimaga — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The following features of the radial growth of Picea obovata L., Larix sibirica L., and Pinus sibirica Du Tour in the icing areas of Altai were analyzed: changes in growth along the trunk height, synchronicity of individual tree-ring chronologies, and sensitivity of generalized chronologies. The dependence of the width of the annual rings of the studied trees using such indicators as the volume and area of icing, the date of gathering of icing and the index of the intensity of icing formation was established. For the analysis, data from the state hydrometeorological station, remote sensing of Earth, literary sources, and materials from our own dendrochronological works were used.

New data on the spitting spiders (Araneae: Scytodidae) of Southeast Asia

Alexander A. Fomichev, Mikhail M. Omelko — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

A new species, Dictis oranhutan sp. n., is diagnosed and described from the Sumatra Island (Indonesia) based on a single male. The Pantropical Scytodes fusca Walckenaer, 1837 is recorded from this island for the first time. Dictis elongata Dankittipakul & Singtripop, 2010, initially described from Thailand, is redescribed and recorded from Laos for the first time, representing the first record of the genus in this country. Detailed descriptions, digital photographs and a map of distributional records of Scytodidae in the Indomalayan Realm are provided.

Environmental impact on phytolith morphometric parameters by example crenate morphotype of Dactylis glomerata L. leaves (South of Western Siberia, Russia)

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Morphometric parameters of phytoliths are effectively applied in identifying fossil remains of cultivated grass species. The research of intraspecific trait variation it phytolith size and shape will expand the possibilities of applying morphometric studies. The aim of the study is to assess the degree of intraspecific variability of D. glomerata crenate phytoliths in response to coenotic and climatic factors. 6 habitats have been studied in the south of Western Siberia (Kulunda lowland and Altai mountains). A high amplitude of intraspecific and intrapopulation variability of morphometric characteristics of crenate phytoliths D. glomerata has been revealed. Most of the parameters correlate with the amount of annual precipitation. According to the totality of all 17 morphometric parameters, phytoliths of forest and herbaceous ecosystems differ from each other. Thus, crenate phytolith size and shape are influenced by climatic and coenotic factors.

Development and transformation of floodplain territories by ants

Bogdan Mikhaleiko, Sergey N. Kirpotin, Andrei S. Babenko — Sun, 12 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The article provides an overview of the works devoted to the role of ants in the transformation of floodplain territories and the formation of a peculiar landscape. The importance of floodplain ecosystems characterized by high productivity has been repeatedly noted by numerous researchers. There is ample evidence of the significant contribution of ants to the development and transformation of natural and anthropogenic disturbed areas. However, the contribution of ants and the inhabitants associated with anthills to the formation and development of floodplain ecosystems in Siberia remains poorly understood. The study of the role of ants in the floodplain ecosystems of the Ob will allow us to assess their contribution to changes in the productivity of floodplain soils and predict options for agricultural development of floodplain ecosystems of Western Siberia.

First record of Coryssomerus capucinus (Beck, 1817) (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) from Novosibirskaya Oblast, Western Siberia

Andrei A. Legalov — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The first record of Coryssomerus capucinus (Beck, 1817) (Curculionidae: Conoderinae: Conoderitae: Coryssomerini) from Novosibirskaya Oblast is given. The distribution map in Siberia, illustrations and redescription of this species are presented. It is the first record from Novosibirskaya Oblast and the easternmost finding of C. capucinus.

New records of Lepidoptera from Kunashir Island (Russia)

Elizaveta A. Spitsyna, Vitaly M. Spitsyn — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

This article presents the first records of five species of moths and butterflies from Kunashir Island. We report on the first records of Lampides boeticus (Linnaeus, 1767), Macroglossum saga Butler, 1878, Ampelophaga rubiginosa Bremer & Grey, 1853, Catocala electa (Vieweg, 1790), and C. praegnax Walker, 1858 from Kunashir Island. Additionally, we provide commentary on the distribution of Bombyx mandarina (Moore, 1872), Caligula japonica Moore, 1862, C. jonasii (Butler, 1877), Macroglossum stellatarum (Linnaeus, 1758), M. pyrrhosticta Butler, 1875, Agrius convolvuli (Linnaeus, 1758), Catocala dula Bremer, 1861, C. lara Bremer, 1861, C. dissimilis Bremer, 1861, C. deuteronympha Staudinger, 1861, C. nupta (Linnaeus, 1767), C. fraxini (Linnaeus, 1758), Lymantria mathura (Moore, 1866), and Orgyia thyellina (Butler, 1881).

First record of Dieckmanniellus nitidulus (Gyllenhal, 1838) (Coleoptera, Brentidae) from Altaiskii Krai, Western Siberia

Andrei A. Legalov — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The first record of Dieckmanniellus nitidulus (Gyllenhal, 1838) (Brentidae: Nanophyinae: Nanophyini) from Altaiskii Krai is given. The distribution map, illustrations and redescription of this species are presented.

The checklist of geometrid moths (Lepidoptera) of Altai Krai with new regional records and tree pest overview

Artem E. Naydenov, Yurij E. Perunov — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Here we provide the checklist of geometrid moths for Altai Krai compiled based on original data, published records and exploration of the Geometridae collection stored in the Zoological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (St Petersburg). The checklist accounts 262 species discovered in Altai Krai in 1897–2023. Among them, nine species collected during our field trips are documented for the region for the first time: Eilicrinia cordiaria (Hübner, 1790), Charissa (Dysgnophos) turfosaria (Wehrli, 1922), Jankowskia bituminaria (Lederer, 1853), Apocheima hispidaria ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775), Macaria (Speranza) halituaria (Guenée, 1858), Scopula dignata (Guenée, [1858]), Cyclophora pendularia (Clerck, 1759), Eupithecia orphnata W.Petersen, 1909 and Eupithecia thalictrata (Püngeler, 1902). Overall, 42 out of 262 geometrid species (i.e. 16%) from 29 genera are known as tree pests enabling to cause significant damage to their host plants in the region and beyond.

An approach for spatial analysis on the medieval Ust-Voikar settlement (subarctic Western Siberia) using macroremains and non-pollen palynomorphs

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The settlement of Ust-Voikar is one of the unique multilayered archaeological sites of north-west Siberia. The settlement was inhabited in the late Middle Ages and the early modern period by the Ob Ugrian or northern Khanty ethnographic group. Due to the presence of a frozen cultural layer ruins of wooden residential buildings and other organic materials are well preserved. Plant macroremain, pollen and non-pollen palynomorph (NPP) analyses were applied to samples of the cultural layer from different parts of buildings and from space between them to establish the vegetation cover, plants used by the population, and differences between functional zones in the buildings. For the first time, the NPP analysis combined with statistical methods were used to clarify the settlement planning and human economic activity. Plant communities around the Ust-Voikar settlement were typical for the northern taiga subzone, some settlement's areas were overgrown with weed vegetation. Residents did not engage in agriculture and used local plant resources for construction, medicinal and food purposes. According to macroremain and NPP data were reconstructed (i) the use of spruce branches and cereal bedding indoors and outdoors on wet sites; (ii) the careful use of fire indoors; (iii) the presence of animals indoors; and (iv) whipworm infection. The cluster analysis and principal component analysis of NPPs helped to clarify the planning affiliations of several samples with the unclear origin and to suggest ways in which archaeological objects were used by the inhabitants.

New records of Aeolesthes sarta (Solsky, 1871) (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) in Kazakhstan

Izbasar I. Temreshev — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Dangerous invasive pest the City longhorn beetle Aeolesthes sarta (Solsky, 1871) is firstly recorded from West Kazakhstan. The finds of A. sarta from Mangystau Oblast of West Kazakhstan are currently the northernmost and westernmost localities for this species and new records for Central Asia. The finds of this species in Kyzylorda Oblast (Zhanakorgan, Baikenge and Shieli vill.) show gradual penetration of this species into the south and west of Kazakhstan, and Taraz into the southeast of the country. Thus, the species spreads across the territory of Kazakhstan both in the western and eastern directions. The reasons for the resettlement are both accidental importation with building wood and planting material, and climate warming, which allows it to gain a foothold in previously inaccessible habitats. The species composition of trees damaged by A. sarta in Kazakhstan is identified. The most populated trees were black poplar Populus nigra and silver poplar P. alba, silverberry Elaeagnus angustifolia and Siberian elm Ulmus pumila, the least populated were Sogdian ash Fraxinus sogdiana, honey locust Gleditsia triacanthos and ashleaf maple Acer negundo.

Reconstruction of root zone soil moisture according to the data from passive microwave radiometer and machine learning in the arid steppe region of Southern Western Siberia

Andrei A. Bondarovich, Egor Yu. Mordvin, Nikita M. Pochyomin, Anatoly A. Lagutin — Sat, 04 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Our study focuses on reconstruction root zone soil moisture (RZSM) in the Kulunda plain, a representative dry steppe area in southern Western Siberia, using remote sensing data (RSD) and machine learning techniques. We employed modern machine learning methods with soil surface layer moisture data from the AMSR2 passive microwave radiometer as the primary predictor. Additionally, we incorporated data from local meteorological and soil hydrological stations, as well as gravity lysimeter data for 2015–2017. This choice of predictors was based on the extensive time series of continuous observations and the availability of selected meteorological parameters. Among the machine learning models we evaluated, Random Forest (RF) and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGW) yielded the best results, achieving statistical metrics of R-squared (R2) values of 0.96 and 0.94, respectively, with corresponding root mean square error (RMSE) values of 0.34 and 0.41.

Biology of Crocidura sibirica Dukelsky, 1930 in the southern West Siberia

Sat, 28 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Our paper reflects the data of a comprehensive study of the main biological characteristics of the Siberian shrew Crocidura sibirica Dukelsky, 1930. 921 specimens were examined for the period 1978–2020. It has been found that the Siberian shrew is attracted to habitats that have been significantly disturbed by human activity (logging sites, hayfields, reclaimed coal dumps, burned areas), but avoids completely degraded areas and urban ecosystems. It reaches its maximum abundance in the low-mountain belt of the Kuznetsk Alatau in hay meadows. The population of the Siberian shrew is subject to cyclic fluctuations with a frequency of 3–4 years. Seasonal activity peaks in mid-August and September, with breeding in the second half of summer and early fall. Among the one-year-old animals, the predominance of males is observed. The diurnal activity of the Siberian shrew is polyphasic, mainly nocturnal. Peaks of highest activity were observed at 23–24 hours and 6–9 hours. In terms of running speed, digging ability, and swimming ability, the Siberian shrew is significantly inferior to its trophic competitors, the other shrews. In interspecific encounters, neutral, friendly interactions predominate; aggression is ritualized. In intraspecific encounters with large shrews, the Siberian shrew will occupy a shelter and attempt to drive an opponent from it. The food spectrum is based on the imaginal and larval stages of insects, arachnids, and centipedes. Among insects, ground beetle larvae, Brachycera, and Hymenoptera are the most preferred foods. The identified food spectrum corresponds to the biotopic distribution of invertebrates, indicating the absence of food selectivity. The trophic spectrum of the C. sibirica overlaps significantly with that of sympatric species of other shrews. Given the significant overlap of the spatial ecological niche, it can be assumed that the Siberian shrew avoids competitive interactions for food resources due to the mismatch of the peak of seasonal activity. Under the influence of competitive interactions with numerous species of the genus Sorex, the main features of the biology of the C. sibirica were formed.

New data on true bugs (Heteroptera) from the Tigirek Strict Reserve (Altai Krai, Russia)

Valentin V. Rudoi, Nikolay N. Vinokurov, Tatiana M. Krugova — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The paper contains data on 79 species of true bugs, collected by the third author at of the Tigirek Strict Reserve in 2013–2015, comprising 23 species new for the Asian part of Russia, Western Siberia, the Altai Krai and the reserve area. The species recorded for the first time include Heterogaster artemisiae Schilling, 1829 (Lygaeidae) for the Asian part of Russia, Tingis (Tingis) crispata (Herrich-Schaeffer, 1838) (Tingidae) for Siberia, and Sacculifer picticeps Kerzhner, 1959 (Miridae) for Western Siberia. Five new species were recorded for the Altai Krai: Himacerus (Himacerus) apterus (Fabricius, 1798) (Nabidae); Charagochilus (Charagochilus) gyllenhalii (Fallén, 1807) (Miridae); Berytinus (Lizinus) crassipes (Herrich-Schaeffer, 1835) (Berytidae); Lamproplax membranea Distant, 1883, Trapezonotus (Gnopherus) anorus (Flor, 1860) (Lygaeidae). For the fauna of the Tigirek Strict Reserve, the species recorded for the first time include Nabis (Nabis) rugosus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Nabidae); Deraeocoris (Deraeocoris) ater (Jakovlev, 1889), Halticus apterus apterus (Linnaeus, 1758), Criocoris quadrimaculatus (Fallén, 1807), Europiella artemisiae (Becker, 1864) (Miridae); Acalypta marginata (Wolff, 1804), Dictyla humuli (Fabricius, 1794) (Tingidae); Camptotelus lineolatus lineolatus (Schilling, 1829), Drymus (Sylvadrymus) brunneus brunneus (R.F. Sahlberg, 1848), Trapezonotus (Trapezonotus) arenarius arenarius (Linnaeus, 1758), Megalonotus chiragra (Fabricius, 1794) (Lygaeidae); Stictopleurus viridicatus (Uhler, 1872) (Rhopalidae); Canthophorus impressus (Horváth, 1880) (Cydnidae); Eurygaster dilaticollis Dorhn, 1860 (Scutelleridae); Eurydema (Eurydema) gebleri gebleri Kolenati, 1846 (Pentatomdiae). The material from the Tigirek Strict Reserve supports the distribution of Stygnocoris rusticus (Fallén, 1807) (Lygaeidae) in the Altai Krai. The updated list of true bugs from the Tigirek Strict Reserve includes 199 species from 20 families.

The use of attractants in the application of food-baits against termites

Zumrat Ganieva, Mukhabbat Khashimova, Kakhraman Rustamov, Voxid Akhmedov — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The article presents the results of scientific research on the identification of attractants in the development of food-baits against termites of the genus Anacanthotermes.

Morphological and molecular identification of Anopheles (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquitoes in Surkhandarya region, Uzbekistan

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles Meigen, 1818 are representatives of blood-sucking insects from the family Culicidae. Some representatives of this genus carry malaria and distribute through humans. In Uzbekistan six species of malaria distributors have been recorded so far. Thus, investigating such kind of malaria distributors and determining the exact number of Anopheles species in order to prevent malaria epidemy in the republic is crucial. In this study we tried to study the species composition and ecology of mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles in Surkhandarya region and described the species characteristics of mosquitoes, both in terms of morphological and molecular genetic features. To reach our aim we collected samples of the genus Anopheles and conducted morphological, molecular-genetic and phylogenetic studies. According to results in the sampled collections of Anopheles mosquitoes, the ratio of males and females was 1:1. The nucleotide sequence data from the mtDNA of our sampled mosquitos were 99.8-100% similar with those of An. hyrcanus Pallas, 1771; An. pulcherrimus Theobald, 1902 and An. superpictus Grassi, 1899 derived from Genbank. Also, molecular genetic studies of adult mosquitoes from Surkhandarya region confirmed the data of their identification as identified by morphological characters. The sequences of their nucleotides were submitted to the database of the Genbank (NCBI). As a result of morphological studies of imago mosquitoes, it was found that 4 species of mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles occur in natural landscapes of Surkhandarya region: An. claviger Meigen, 1804; An. hyrcanus, An. pulcherrimus and An. superpictus.

Dynamics of ground beetle (Carabidae) populations at rock dumps in an open-pit coal mine: modeling the influence of environmental factors

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Mineral mining's adverse environmental effects encompass pollution of air, surface, and ground waters, as well as soil disruption. Kuzbass (south of West Siberia, Russia) exemplifies this impact due to open-pit coal mining, leading to the emergence of man-made landscapes like dumps and quarries. Mining firms undertake reclamation efforts on post-technogenic zones. Evaluating dump restoration involves assessing vegetation and animal components, including soil invertebrates and ground beetles, which are sensitive bioindicators of environmental health. The ecological balance of any species hinges on various environmental factors, both biotic and abiotic. Determining the most influential factors for a species' ecological niche is challenging. This study is part of an extensive investigation into the succession of ground-dwelling arthropods across varying-aged coal mine rock dumps in Kuzbass. Pitfall traps were employed from 2013 to 2022, yielding over 47,000 ground beetle specimens. A unique statistical model, computed in R, gauged the impact of environmental factors on ground beetle abundance. Predictors encompassed ground level temperature, hydrothermal coefficient (HTC), soil pH, Soil Organic Carbon (SOC), Total N, vegetation cover, turf extent, and succession stage. All these factors significantly influenced beetle numbers. Probabilistic graphical models effectively elucidated key relationships between species groups and environmental variables. Monitoring ground beetle community succession in technogenic zones necessitates comprehensive consideration of intricate environmental interactions.

Unveiling copepod diversity and faunal patterns in Middle Siberia: insights from Tiksi settlement vicinity

Aleksandr Novikov, Ekaterina Abramova, Anna Novichkova, Elena Chertoprud — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The study addresses an uneven and incomplete understanding of copepod fauna in Middle Siberia, particularly in its northeastern region. While the microcrustacean composition in the Lena River Delta is well documented, the Tiksi settlement vicinity, nearby the Lena Delta, remains unexplored. This research focuses on characterizing copepod crustaceans in Tiksi's waters. The collected data enriches the microcrustacean distribution database in Arctic and Subarctic regions worldwide and facilitates an analysis of copepod faunal variation in northeastern Eurasia. A total of 64 copepod species were discovered near Tiksi, with 19 being newly identified for the region. Brackish water reservoirs and lakes demonstrated the greatest diversity within the fauna. The structure of copepod species complexes was consistent among water bodies of the same hydrological type. In brackish lagoons, bays, and lakes, species complexes exhibited intricate, multilevel functional and trophic structures. In contrast, rivers and streams displayed simplified complex structures. Around 20% of the examined fauna displayed East Asian-North American ranges, suggesting a connection to the ancient land of Beringia. Similarity among local Copepoda orders' faunas is linked to crustaceans' dispersal ability, with increasing similarity from Harpacticoida to Calanoida and Cyclopoida. Two distinct groups of regions with comparable faunas are recognized in northeastern Eurasia: European-Siberian, divided into European and Siberian branches, and Far Eastern. The potential existence of transitional zones between these groups is also discussed.

Diversity, stratigraphy and ecology of diatoms and plant pollen in the Miocene-Pliocene sediments of the Vitim Plateau (Baikal region, Russia)

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0700

We performed lithogeochemical and biostratigraphical studies of the core from the hole 8182 in the Northern paleovalley of Vitim Plateau. According to lithogeochemical characteristics of the sediments in the section, 5 members were found out. Three lower ones characterize the Dzhilinda suite, two upper ones – the Khoygot stratum. The analysis of biodiversity and fossil diatom algae distribution in the core resulted in revealing of 137 species and varieties of diatom algae related to 50 genera. Four diatom zones (DZ) were established by appearing or disappearing of index species. Ecological and geographic analysis showed domination of planktonic, indifferent, cosmopolite species. Palynological analysis revealed three pollen members with reconstruction of vegetation of forest type reflecting the vector of cooling and climate change from moderately warm one in Middle-Late Miocene to moderately cool in Early Pliocene.

Fauna and population of non-Passerine birds in the lower reaches of the Bolshaya Rechka River (Altai Territory, Bolsherechensky reserve)

Sergey V. Vazhov, Alex V. Matsyura, Viktor M. Vazhov, Elena V. Cherdantseva — Sun, 24 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The purpose of this paper is to provide additional information on the non-Passerine bird fauna and populations in the Bolsherechensky Nature Reserve, specifically within the Bolshaya Rechka River valley. Located in Altai Krai, the reserve occupies a typical territory of the Upper Ob forest massif. Protecting the habitats of rare and endangered bird species is one of the primary goals of the reserve. However, despite previous studies, our understanding of the avifauna and bird populations remains insufficient. To address this, we conducted bird surveys in the reserve during spring and summer of 2012, 2013, 2017, and 2021, specifically within the Bolshaya Rechka River valley. The results revealed that the summer breeding community of non-Passerine birds in the Bolsherechensky reserve consists of 48 species from 18 families and 12 orders. Additionally, we discovered 11 rare and endangered bird species previously unrecorded in the reserve. In particular, seven of these species lack specific distribution information in the latest regional Red Data Books, including the Black stork (Ciconia nigra), Oriental honey buzzard (Pernis ptilorhynchus), Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), Red-footed falcon (Falco vespertinus), Common wood pigeon (Columba palumbus), Eurasian pygmy owl (Glaucidium passerinum), and European bee-eater (Merops apiaster). In general, our study significantly improves our knowledge of the non-Passerine bird fauna and population of non-Passerine birds in the lower reaches of the Bolshaya Rechka River within the Bolsherechensky Nature Reserve. The findings are valuable for the improvement of biodiversity protection measures.

Monitoring the snow leopard population in the Altai Mountains (Chikhachev Ridge, Siberia)

Sat, 23 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The snow leopard population has been monitored on the Chikhacvhev Ridge for 10 years since 2011 using camera traps. In 2021, a male was recorded. We recorded several concurrent predatory species, like red fox, Pallas’s cat, wolverine, and brown bear, and prey species Altai marmots. The snow leopards performed visual and olfactory marking at their area. We concluded that snow leopards in this transboundary mountain area were active at temperatures up to 3°C in summer period.

Hybridisation in Colias butterflies (Lepidoptera, Pieridae): identification of natural hybrids using unlinked molecular markers

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0700

In this report, we analyze a wild-caught Colias specimen from Kyrgyzstan with unusual wing pattern, which was provisionally identified as a natural hybrid between Colias christophi helialaica Schulte, 1988 and Colias cocandica cocandica Erschoff, 1874 due to its intermediate phenotype. Using one mitochondrial (COI barcode) and three nuclear (Ca-ATPase, H3 and CAD gene fragments) markers, we confirm its hybrid origin and demonstrate that this specimen is a hybrid between a female of Colias christophi helialaica and a male of Colias cocandica cocandica. Our study shows that an analysis of mitochondrial and nuclear molecular markers can successfully discriminate natural hybrids in such a taxonomically challenging group of butterflies as the genus Colias.

Bruchidius marginalis (Fabricius, 1776) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) – a species new to the Republic of Khakassia (Russia)

Sofia V. Lopatina, Sergey V. Lukyantsev — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Bruchidius marginalis, a seed beetle, is found in various countries, the including the Baltic countries, Balkan peninsula, central, northern, and the western Europe, and Transcaucasian countries. In Russia, the species was previously noted in the south of its European part, Saratov and Kaliningrad regions. Oxytropis pilosa, a South Palearctic species, grows in central Europe, the European part of Russia, the Caucasus, Siberia, Mongolia, and Asia Minor. It is distributed in the steppe zone, insular steppes, forb and forb-grass steppes, and steppe meadows. A count of damaged O. pilosa seedlings was made and the percentage of fruit infection by seed-eating insects was calculated. The level of infestation in the O. pilosa fruits was 23%, and mass emergence of adults was observed in September. When examining leguminous plants for infection with seed-eating insects, a species of carpophage Bruchidius marginalis was identified, which is the first for the territory of the Republic of Khakassia.

Jewel beetles (Coleoptera, Buprestidae) of Zhetysu Alatau (Kazakhstan)

Aizhan M. Tleppaeva — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Fifty-seven species and subspecies of jewel beetles (Buprestidae) from 20 genera, 11 tribes and 5 subfamilies (Julodinae, Polycestinae, Chrysochroinae, Buprestinae and Agrilinae) are recorded from Zhetysu (Dzhungar) Alatau Range. By species diversity at the subfamily level, the jewel beetles are distributed as follows: Julodinae – 1 species, Polycestinae – 5 species, Chrysochroinae - 14 species, Buprestinae – 14 species, Agrilinae – 22 species. At the genus level, Agrilus (15 species), Sphenoptera (9), Acmaeoderella (5), Anthaxia (5) and Chrysobothris (3) are the most abundant in the Zhetysu Alatau. The identified species of jewel beetles are confined to seven altitude belts and biotopes: the most populated is a shrub-steppe belt (25 species) followed by mountain-floodplain forests (14) and leaf-fir-forest belt (14), semidesert (11) and coniferous-forest (9) belts; medium-mountain mixedgrass belt (5) and subalpine meadows (2) demonstrate much poorer jewel beetle composition. Species of jewel beetles with known host plants are associated with arboreal and shrub plants from 21 families.

Interaction of microplastics and terrestrial and aquatic insects (bioaccumulation, degradation, ecotoxicological effects)

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0700

World production of convenient and durable materials made of synthetic plastics during the last 70 years caused the dispersal of microplastic particles in the environment. Microplastic pollution is the focus of interest worldwide due to its global distribution and adverse effects on living organisms. The largest number of studies addressing this issue explored the aquatic environment, yet terrestrial ecosystems also suffer from microplastic pollution. Insects are crucial for most terrestrial ecosystems. Few can compete with them in biomass productivity and species diversity, which makes them targets for studying the toxic bioaccumulation. This review article presents a systematic analysis of data on bioaccumulation, degradation of microplastics by aquatic and terrestrial entomofauna, and its ecotoxicological effects.

Helminths of horses in Karakalpakstan: seasonal, spatial and age dynamics

Amaniyaz J. Kaniyazov, Erkinjon B. Shakarboev — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0700

We studied 60 species of helminths from 29 genera, 17 families, 8 orders, 3 classes, and 2 phyla parasitize horses in various regions of Karakalpakstan. Horses have been shown to be hosts to 53 species of Nematoda, 5 species of Cestoda and 2 species of Trematoda. The prevalence of helminths ranges from 0.7% to 33.6% and the intensity of infection from 1 to 12,538 individuals. The article reveals the biocoenotic relationships between ungulates and their helminths established by trophic links and proves the character of formation of helminthofauna in ungulates under the influence of natural and anthropogenic factors in the Aral Sea region. Additionally, the seasonal and age dynamics of horse infection with parascaridosis and setariasis in Karakalpakstan is determined.

First record of Glycymeris taylori Angas, 1879 and two additional records of Azumapecten ruschenbergerii Tryon, 1869 and Lutraria australis Deshayes, 1855 from the north west of the Persian-Arabian Gulf

Murtada D. Naser, Amaal Gh. Yasser — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The northwestern Persian-Arabian Gulf marine ecoregion has several bivalves recorded. The present study is to gather new bivalve distribution data from the Iraqi shore. From 2020 to 2021, three marine bivalves were found in the northwestern Arabian Gulf, Iraqi coast. Glycymeris taylori Angas, 1879 (family Glycymerididae) recorded for the first time from the Gulf, Azumapecten ruschenbergerii Tryon, 1869 (family Pectinidae) and Lutraria australis Deshayes, 1855 (family Mactridae). These new records illustrate the need for more concentrated marine diversity studies, particularly on bivalve groups in this biodiverse region.

Effect of precooking with sodium chloride and citric acid on residual amounts of lead and cadmium in rice

Mohammad Reza Sangi, Seyed Mehdi Talebi, Mohaddeseh Hayatpour, Alex Matsyura — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Rice contamination with heavy metals has always been one of the main concerns of food health. The purpose of this research is to investigate the rice effect of the precooking process with sodium chloride and citric acid on the amounts of residual lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd). In the current study, eight brands of high-consumption rice were used in the Arak-Iran market and their amounts of Pb and Cd were measured using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. Two rice brands, Pakistani Moeid and Indian 21, which contained the highest amounts of Pb and Cd, were selected and treated with soak (for 4h) and boiling (for 60 min) in 1% sodium chloride and 0.6% citric acid. The results showed that precooking Pakistani Moeid and Indian 21 rice samples with 1% NaCl reduced the amount of Pb by 15.7% and 16.2%, respectively. Furthermore, the amount of Cd was reduced by 10.5% and 10.8% for Pakistani Moeid and Indian 21, respectively. Furthermore, the results for precooking of Pakistani Moeid and Indian 21rice samples with 0.6 % citric acid showed a reduction in the amount of Pb by 9.3% and the amount of 8.9% and Cd by 11% and 9.6%, respectively. These numbers were in comparison with precooking rice with pure water. According to the results of this research, precooking rice samples with NaCl reduces the amount of Pb more effectively than that of Cd. Furthermore, precooking rice with citric acid reduces the amount of Pb and Cd by almost the same amount. In general, precooking rice with NaCl is more effective in reducing heavy metal contamination compared to citric acid.

Seasonal migrations of the Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava (Aves, Passeriformes) according to results of the trapping and ringing data for sixty-four years in the Eastern Baltic

Vladimir A. Payevsky, Anatoly P. Shapoval — Sun, 03 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Based on the results of trapping and ringing Yellow Wagtail on the Courish (Curonian) Spit in Eastern Baltic in the amount of 3076 individuals during 1957–2020, the population numbers, the migration routes and wintering grounds are presented. The obtained seven recoveries of our rings account for only 0.23% of the efficiency of Yellow Wagtail ringing. The annual number of Yellow Wagtails captured varied widely over 64 years, from three to 206 individuals. The oscillations were wavelike in nature and showed different amplitudes. Of the seven birds with our rings found two birds in November and February were caught in the Federal Republic of Nigeria (West Africa), three birds during migration were found in Italy and two birds during the summer were found in Sweden and Finland. The length of the migration route from the Courish Spit to Nigeria was more than five thousand kilometers. The results of studying the migrations of this species in other countries and regions are discussed.

New and interesting findings of the Lepidoptera from Astrakhan and Volgograd Territories (Southern Russia)

Sergei A. Rybalkin, Roman V. Yakovlev, Balázs Benedek — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Two species of moths, Drasteria christophi (Alphéraky, 1895) (Erebidae) and Protarchanara abrupta Eversmann, 1854 (Noctuidae), are reported from Russia for the first time; seventeen species of Notodontidae and Noctuidae are found as new for the fauna of Astrakhan and Volgograd Territories (Southern Russia).

Rare and differential stenotopic plant species from mountain peat bogs in the Teletskoye Lake basin (Republic of Altai, Russia)

Dmitry V. Zolotov, Dmitry V. Chernykh, Roman Yu. Biryukov — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The article presents new localities of five rare stenotopic bog plant species (Drosera anglica, D. rotundifolia, Utricularia intermedia, U. minor and Eriophorum gracile), of which three species are new for Northern Altai within the Republic of Altai (Drosera anglica, Utricularia intermedia and U. minor). The altitudinal distribution of 19 characteristic plant species of three bog massifs of the Teletskoye Lake basin located in different altitudinal subbelts and stripes of the forest belt is analyzed. Based on the analysis performed, differential bog species were identified that marked the limits of altitudinal stripes and subbelts within the forest belt.

Fire-induced changes in the dielectric constant of lichens in plateau palsas of the Nadym-Pur interfluve

Sat, 12 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The paper analyzed the complex permittivity of lichens of the genus Cladonia sampled from areas disturbed by fire and from undisturbed plateau palsas in the Nadym-Pur interfluve, Western Siberia. The complex permittivity at microwave-frequency range was estimated by coaxial line measurement using an Agilent E8363B vector network analyzer. The real and imaginary parts of the permittivity of lichens in the disturbed areas were found to be significantly lower than ones of lichens from undisturbed areas. The linear dependence of the complex permittivity on water content is more pronounced in the lichen sampled from the disturbed areas. The obtained patterns can be used for radargram interpretation.

New records of lichens from the Russian Far East. IV. The lichens of limestone outcrops of the southern part of the Russian Far East

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The new records of the lichens of limestone outcrops in the southern part of the Russian Far East (Primorye Territory and Sakhalin Region) are presented. Among them, Catillaria detractula, Gyalecta jenensis, Myriolecis semipallida, Physconia jacutica, Sarcogyne regularis, Thyrea confusa, Verrucaria caerulela, V. viridula and Xanthoria calcicola are newly reported for the Russian Far East; Acarospora glaucocarpa, A. macrospora, Lecanora valesiaca, Protoblastenia calva and Thelidium decipiens are newly reported for the southern part of the Russian Far East. Xanthocarpia crenulatella is a new species for Sakhalin Region. Diagnostic traits of the species, peculiarities of the material from the Russian Far East, distribution, ecology and comparison with the closest species are given.

Relationship between the content of basic chemical elements and ecological and trophic groups of microorganisms in peat oligotrophic frozen soil

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The paper analyzed the number of ecological-trophic groups of microorganisms and the elemental composition of the active, permafrost and thawed layers of a typical flat mount frozen peatlands (plateau palsa) in the Nadym-Pur interfluves, Western Siberia, with part of it affected by fire. The number of ecological-trophic groups was found to change after permafrost thaw. The study revealed a relationship between the number of microorganisms and the content of some chemical elements in the soil profile of the plateau palsa in the Nadym-Pur interfluve. A statistically significant relationship was found between the most probable number of microorganisms (CFU/g) in different peat layers and the pH, the ash content and the content of calcium, magnesium, strontium, and iron.

Composition, structure and formation factors of macroinvertebrate communities in low-mountain lakes of the Russian Altai

Dmitry M. Bezmaternykh, Olga N. Vdovina — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Recent data suggests a significant difference in physical and biological properties between low-mountain lakes and high-mountain or lowland water bodies. However, the taxonomic composition and structure of bottom invertebrates in low-mountain lakes of Altai remain unknown. Due to climate change and growing anthropogenic impact, studying the composition and structure of macrozoobenthos in these lakes is becoming increasingly urgent. In 2022, a study was conducted on macrozoobenthos from foothill lakes of the Russian Altai, specifically Kireevo in the Krasnogorsk region, Aya (Aiskoye) in the Altai region, Koksha and Svetloye in the Soviet region, Kolyvanskoye in the Zmeinogorsk region, and Beloye in the Kuryinsky region of Altai Krai. The study identified 152 species from 9 classes, including Turbellaria (1), Nematoda (1), Oligochaeta (17), Hirudinea (5), Bivalvia (2), Gastropoda (8), Arachnida (10), Crustacea (2), and Insecta (106). Of the insects, the order Diptera (69 species, including 59 chironomids) had the greatest species diversity. Additionally, the orders Trichoptera (16), Coleoptera (7), Ephemeroptera (5), Odonata (4), Heteroptera (4), and Megaloptera (1) were identified. Most of the studied lakes in the Russian Altai (Aya, Beloye, Kireevo, and Kolyvanskoye) had a taxonomic composition of macrozoobenthos similar to lowland lakes. Two lakes (Koksha and Svetloye) had a combination of features from both lowland and high-mountain lakes. The content of organic substances and their decomposition products in water, as well as substrate type, were the most significant factors determining the development of macroinvertebrate communities in the studied lakes.

Morphology and population size structure of Pantocsekiella teletskoyensis (Bacillatiophyta) in the deep mountain lake

Sergei I. Genkal, Elena Yu. Mitrofanova — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The new and rare small-celled centric diatom species Pantocsekiella teletskoyensis Genkal et Mitrofanova was recently identified from Cyclotella delicatula Genkal, previously described in the phytoplankton of Lake Teletskoye (Altai, Russia). The identification of P. teletskoyensis was based on the analysis of numerous scanning electron microscopy images since the beginning of a recent phytoplankton study in the lake. The investigation of the species revealed a wider variability of its qualitative morphological features such as valve relief, presence of granules on valve face, rimoportula position, and structure of alveoli. As a result, new data on the morphological variation of this species allowed for the refinement of its diagnosis. In addition, a comparison of the morphological features of P. teletskoyensis and other small-celled centric diatoms of Pantocsekiella and Cyclotella genera found in various water bodies across Europe, Asia, and America showed that P. teletskoyensis is most similar to C. minuscula, that was previously described from the deep-water Lake Ohrid located on the border of Northern Macedonia and Albania. We also conducted numerous measurements of P. teletskoyensis valve diameters, which enabled us to estimate the cell size in the population ranging from 3.02 up to 7.98 µm. The study of teletskoyensis population structure revealed that the group of 4.00-4.99 µm was consistently the most numerous among size groups with a step of 1 µm in all the months studied.

First record of the assassin bugs Zelus renardii Kolenati, 1857 (Heteroptera, Reduviidae) in Uzbekistan

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0700

This study was conducted in Tashkent in 2022 – 2023. As a result of this study, the species Zelus renardii Kolenati, 1857, was discovered for the first time for the fauna of Uzbekistan. Zelus renardii is an invasive species that has recently been actively spreading in new territories for it. Most likely, the samples we found were imported to Uzbekistan from Turkey.

New data on the distribution of Red-breasted goose and Lesser white-fronted goose in the south of the Gydan Peninsula

Igor G. Korobitsyn, Oleg Yu. Tyutenkov — Sun, 14 May 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The Red-breasted goose Branta ruficollis (Pallas, 1769) and the Lesser white-fronted goose Anser erythropus (Linnaeus, 1758) are rare bird species nesting in the Arctic tundra zone of Eurasia usually in association with Peregrine falcons Falco peregrinus Tunstull, 1771. The Red-breasted goose, which has a vulnerable status according to the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), currently has a positive population trend. The Lesser white-fronted goose with the same status, on the contrary, is declining in numbers. Both species are under the scrutiny of geese specialists. To identify the possible nesting of these species, suitable steep banks of the Indik'yakha River were surveyed in the south of the Gydan Peninsula. In 2019, six nesting aggregations of Red-breasted goose were discovered with a total number of 11 pairs in association with Peregrine falcons. In 2021, only two nesting localities with three pairs of geese were found in the same area, and in 2022 three localities each with a pair of geese. In addition, in 2022, three nesting sites of Lesser white-fronted goose were registered, also with a pair of birds in each place. In one case, the Lesser white-fronted goose and the Red-breasted goose nested in one place together. The new findings of their nesting are the southernmost nesting sites in the south of the Gydan Peninsula, providing important information for their conservation management and monitoring needs to continue.

Long-term and seasonal dynamics of zooplankton in hypergaline lake Kulundinskoye (Kulunda Steppe, Russia)

Lyubov’ V. Vesnina, Dmitry M. Bezmaternykh — Sun, 14 May 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The paper investigates the effects of natural environmental factors on the long-term (2000–2020) and seasonal (April–October) dynamics of zooplankton in the hypergaline Lake Kulundinskoye, located in the Kulunda steppe of Altai Krai, Russia. Sixteen key indicators of zooplankton structure, including abundance and biomass of major taxonomic groups such as Rotifera, Cladocera, Copepoda, and Anostraca, as well as individual stages of a life cycle and sex ratio in Artemia population, were studied in relation to 17 hydrophysical and hydrochemical indicators such as temperature, density, pH, total salinity, hardness, alkalinity, and other parameters. Monthly data for 2017–2020 and average annual data for 2000–2020 were analyzed to identify the impact of environmental factors on zooplankton structure. The study also examined the influence of these factors on the Artemia crustacean population, which dominates the zooplankton in this lake. The hydrophysical and hydrochemical regime of Lake Kulundinskoye can vary significantly from year to year, which affects the zooplankton indicators. Statistical analysis showed that monthly hydrophysical and hydrochemical data are more reliable than averaged data for the research period (April-October) in determining the impact of environmental factors on zooplankton structure. The results indicate that the changes in zooplankton structure are mainly due to the stimulating effect of increased salinity on the Artemia population and its depressing influence on other taxa. The long-term dynamics of zooplankton is characterized by a complex cyclicity of water salinity and productivity of the Artemia population, which is influenced by periodic changes in the moisture content of the lake catchment.

Additions to the Catalogue of Lepidoptera of Omsk Region. Pyraloidea.

Svyatoslav A. Knyazev, Sergey Yu. Sinev — Wed, 10 May 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The list of 19 species of Pyraloid moths new to the fauna of Omsk Region is given. 13 of them are new to the West Siberia and 5 are recorded from the Asian part of Russia for the first time, namely, Insalebria serraticornella (Zeller, 1839), Pseudophycita deformella (Möschler, 1866), Epischnia prodromella (Hübner, 1799), Ratasa alienalis (Eversmann, 1844), Pyrausta rectefascialis Toll, 1936. The second record of Krombia bimedia (Filipjev, 1924) in Russia is given.

Discovery of the ogre-faced spiders (Aranei: Deinopidae) in Sumatra (Indonesia), with description of a new species

Alexander A. Fomichev, Mikhail M. Omelko — Sat, 06 May 2023 00:00:00 +0700

A new species, Asianopis gorochovi sp. n. is diagnosed and described from the Sumatra Island based on a single male. The family Deinopidae C. L. Koch, 1850 is recorded from Sumatra for the first time. Detailed description, digital photographs and distributional map are provided.

Three new for the fauna of West Kazakhstan species of the orders Mantodea, Orthoptera and Embioptera

Izbasar I. Temreshev — Fri, 05 May 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Three species of orthopteroid insects (Insecta, Polyneoptera) are recorded from West Kazakhstan for the first time. The Asian giant mantes Hierodula tenuidentata Saussure, 1869 (Mantodea) and the Turkistan webspinner Embia tartara Saussure, 1896 (Embioptera) are found in Mangystau oblast. It is possible that this species was able to spread north due to climate warming. The ant-loving cricket Myrmecophilus acervorum (Panzer, 1799) (Orthoptera) is recorded from Atyrau oblast. Probably both species were imported in this region with planting material. Moreover, the order Embioptera and families Myrmecophilidae and Embiidae are recorded from West Kazakhstan for the first time.

An annotated checklist of gall-forming poplar aphids (Sternorrhyncha: Aphididae, Pemphigini) of the Asian part of Russia

Wed, 03 May 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Here we overviewed the taxonomic diversity and compiled the checklist of gall-forming poplar aphids (Sternorrhyncha: Aphididae, Pemphigini) in the Asian part of Russia. Overall, 20 species, i.e. 18 Pemphigus and two Thecabius spp. were proven to have distribution in this macroregion. Based on our field study, following seven species represented novel geographical records. Among them, Pem. iskanderkuli Narzikulov is new for Asian Russia as per the record in Tuva Republic, and six species, Pem. matsumurai Monzen, Pem. microsetosus Aoki, Pem. plicatus Dolgova, Pem. populi Courchet, Pem. protospirae Lichtenstein, Th. latisensorius Hori, are new for some administrative regions of Siberia and/or the Russian Far East. Pemphigus passeki Börner, Pem. spyrothecae Passerini are alien species for the Asian part of Russia. Eight species, Pem. borealis Tullgren, Pem. bursarius (Linnaues), Pem. matsumurai Monzen, Pem. populi Courchet, Pem. passeki Börner, Pem. protospirae Lichtenstein, Pem. spyrothecae Passerini, Th. affinis (Kaltenbach), were documented in the Asian part of Russia as pests of poplars.

Soils and vegetation of the riverside floodplain in the hydrological continuum of the southern tundra within the Pur–Taz interfluve (Western Siberia)

Tue, 02 May 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Climate warming has significantly impacted the ecosystems of the Subarctic and Arctic. It has most strongly affected highly productive ecosystems, including those formed in river floodplains. Due to the initially high (background) values of NDVI, remote monitoring methods are not suitable for detecting changes in the biological productivity of floodplain vegetation. Research for both individual regions and landscapes is needed. However, for the floodplains of many rivers in Western Siberia, there are no primary descriptions of soils and vegetation. We have studied the soils and vegetation of the riverside floodplains in the lower reaches of the Taz River within the Pur–Taz interfluve. The studies were carried out within the hydrological continuum from the stream to the main Taz River. A regular change in soils and vegetation along the hydrological continuum was established, with fluvial processes intensifying. Ecosystems with the greatest diversity of plants, with thick layered soils such as Pantofluvic Fluvisol (Polyarenic, Polysiltic, Humic), are formed in the valleys of the tributaries of the Taz River on the natural riverside levee. The floodplain of the Taz River is distinguished by small differences in the heights of topographic elements, loamy soil texture, waterlogging and permafrost. The soils of the studied hydrological continuum were assigned to two Reference Soil Groups (Gleysol and Fluvisol). To describe the diversity of basic soil properties, six principal qualifiers and nine supplementary qualifiers were used. An assumption was made about the replacement of willow bushes by alder bushes during the warming period with the growth of some species of forbs (Parasenecio hastatus). The study made it possible to outline ways of further studying the floodplains of the Subarctic of Western Siberia.

Spatial heterogeneity of soil acidity properties in peatlands of Western Siberia

Tatiana V. Raudina, Georgyi I. Istigechev, Sergey V. Loiko — Mon, 01 May 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The formation of significant amounts of low molecular weight (LMW) water-soluble organic compounds, which are highly reactive compounds of a non-specific nature, is a feature of the biogeocenoses of the North. Soil acidity, which in turn depends on LMW organic acids content, regulates the migration ability of compounds in landscapes and the bioavailability of nutrients. With an increase in the active layer thickness of peat soils in Western Siberia in the course of climate warming, new portions of LMW water-soluble organic compounds will enter, which will be quickly processed by microorganisms into CH4 and CO2. Five key sites were considered, located within thawed oligotrophic, frozen mound and polygonal bogs. The analysis of zonal patterns of acidity changes in the waters of peat soils indicates an increase in the pH in the series: northern taiga<forest tundra<southern tundra. A feature of the most acidic soils of the northern taiga is the high content of low molecular weight organic acids, the accumulation of which is determined by the species diversity of the vegetation cover and high humidity. The decrease in the content of acids in the soils of the southern tundra is due to changes in climatic conditions and, accordingly, the quality and quantity of organic material involved in the processes of mineralization and humification. Relationships between the pH of the soil solution and such parameters as the specific conductivity, the content of dissolved organic carbon, and the specific UV-absorbency (SUVA245) were revealed. Comparison of the acidity indices of peat soils of the zonal series of the European Northeast with similar ones obtained for the study area of Western Siberia showed that, at the same values of actual acidity, the exchangeable acidity values of peat soils of Western Siberia are slightly lower.

Primary phytochemical screening and spectroscopic assessment of chicory (Cichorium intybus L.)

Elizaveta P. Zotova, Mikhail Yu. Cherednichenko, Elena A. Kalashnikova — Sat, 29 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) is a key source of valuable primary and secondary metabolites (inulin, vitamins, essential oil). The spectrum of medicinal action of chicory includes antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, choleretic, diuretic, sedative, and appetite stimulating activities. Plant tissue and cell culture allow the production of high yields of plants, biomass, and valuable metabolites throughout the year. In our research, we produced aseptic plants from two Russian breeding (Yaroslavsky and Petrovsky), performed their primary phytochemical screening, and established the quantitative content of particular elements and substance groups using IR spectroscopy. It has been found that a high yield of viable aseptic plants of the Yaroslavsky cultivar can be achieved by seed treatment with 8% sodium hypochlorite for 10 minutes or 37% hydrogen peroxide for 5 minutes. For the Petrovsky cultivar, it is advisable to germinate nonsterile seeds and then introduce them into the culture by washing the seedlings in a slightly pink solution of potassium permanganate, followed by sterilization with 8% sodium hypochlorite for 5 minutes and washing with plants the antibiotic solution (0.8% gentamicin) for 15 minutes. All studied classes of compounds (tannins and phenols, flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, glycosides, reducing sugars, and proteins) are present in aseptic plants of C. intybus; however, differences appear depending on the extractants (water and ethanol). IR spectroscopy has shown a higher content of moisture, fiber, and starch in seeds and a higher content of macronutrients, fat, ash, and proteins in aseptic plants.

New and noteworthy records of Plants, Lichens and Lepidoptera in Altai Territory and Republic of Altai (Southern Siberia)

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0700

New localities for six species of plants (Achillea schmakovii, Botrychium lunaria, Cystopteris altajensis, Euphrasia altaica, Agrostis tuvinica and Calamagrostis × thyrsoidea), five species of lichens (Bacidina phacodes, Leptogium burnetiae, Melanelixia albertana, Tuckermannopsis chlorophylla, Tetramelas chloroleucus) and nine species of Lepidoptera (Parnassius apollo, Lampides boeticus, Limenitis sydyi, Maniola jurtina, Erebia kindermanni, Eudia pavonia, Proserpinus proserpina, Macroglossum stellatarum, Catocala elocata) are reported for Altai Territory and Republic of Altai. Lichens Bacidina phacodes, Tuckermannopsis chlorophylla, Tetramelas chloroleucus and Lepidoptera Lampides boeticus, Maniola jurtina, Proserpinus proserpina and Catocala elocata are reported as new for Altai Territory, Macroglossum stellatarum and Limenitis sydyi are new for the Republic of Altai. Localities and ecological preferences are indicated for each species.

A review of the genus Inguromorpha Edwards, 1888 (Lepidoptera, Cossidae) with description of eight new species

Artem E. Naydenov, Roman V. Yakovlev, Fernando C. Penco — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The article presents an illustrated catalog of the genus Inguromorpha Edwards, 1888 (Lepidoptera: Cossidae, Hypoptinae), which includes 22 species. The following new combinations are established: Inguromorpha centrosoma (Dyar, 1925) comb. nov., Inguromorpha clathrata (Dognin, 1910) comb. nov., Inguromorpha clymene (Schaus, 1921) comb. nov., Inguromorpha crassiplaga (Schaus, 1905) comb. nov., Inguromorpha racana (Dognin, 1920) comb. nov. Eight new species are described: Inguromorpha arawaka Naydenov, Yakovlev & Penco sp. nov., Inguromorpha bachmanni Naydenov, Yakovlev & Penco sp. nov., Inguromorpha catarinea Naydenov, Yakovlev & Penco sp. nov., Inguromorpha muisca Naydenov, Yakovlev & Penco sp. nov., Inguromorpha paraguaica Naydenov, Yakovlev & Penco sp. nov., Inguromorpha scutulata Naydenov, Yakovlev & Penco sp. nov., Inguromorpha texasensis Naydenov, Yakovlev & Penco sp. nov., Inguromorpha willinki Naydenov, Yakovlev & Penco sp. nov. The distributional maps for all the species of the genus are provided.

Soil-ecological conditions of the north taiga flat-mound bog, Western Siberia

Tatiana V. Raudina, Georgyi I. Istigechev, Sergey V. Loiko — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Of particular interest in the north of Western Siberia are frozen flat-mound bogs. Being formed in a transitional climatic zone, on the southern front of the permafrost zone, these frozen peatlands may turn out to be highly reactive upon thawing and deliver high amounts of solutes to the hydrological network. A detailed study of a flat-mound bog was carried out in a key area of about 3 hectares (Purovsky district, Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug). The soil-ecological conditions of the site are described, as well as the effect of spatial heterogeneity on the composition and properties of soils. Using topographic mapping and photogrammetry, it was identified that the bog surface is characterized by distinct microtopography (mounds-hollows-thermokarst subsidence with a percentage areas ratio of 49:30:21, respectively). Small-scale variations in ecohydrological settings, microtopography, and vegetation affect the distribution of nutrients, organic carbon in soils, and DOC (dissolved organic carbon) in bog waters. The main soil types are Dystric Hemic Cryic Histosols and Dystric Hemic Histosols (Gelic) found on mounds and in subsidence, respectively. If the peat thickness decreases to 40– 60 cm, then Spodic Histic Turbic Cryosols (Albic, Arenic) and Histic Turbic Cryosols (Albic, Arenic) form. In hollows and fens, Dystric Epifibric Histosols, Spodic Histic Turbic Cryosols (Arenic), and Gleyic Histic Entic Podzols (Turbic) are the most common. The proportion of soils with frozen peat is no more than 20% of the area of the key site and permafrost lies deeper, in the underlying rocks. It was found that carbon stocks within the key area vary from 31.1 to 91.3 kg/m2. The maximum values are observed in transit subsidences/hollows between mounds, where water is discharged. Concentrations of macro-microelements in bog waters vary depending on microform types. For some elements (e.g., DOC, Fe, Al, B, Si, Ti, V, Rb, Sb, Cs, REEs (rare earth elements), Pb, Th, U), they are approximately equal or 1.5–2 higher on the mounds. The export of DOC and other elements in permafrost areas is primarily controlled by the residence time of water and movement ways along the profile. In addition to this, the physicochemical properties of peat and biomass, which are also higher on mounds, influence the distribution and accumulation of nutrients.

Check list of hover flies (Diptera, Syrphidae) of west part of Zarafshan mountain ridge

Mukhammadtuychi R. Rakhimov — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The article, based on materials from the author's collections for 2017−2022 and partly on the collections of the Samarkand State University (Samarkand) and the Samarkand Museum of Local Lore, provides the first data on the distribution of 79 species of syrphids from 3 subfamilies in the Western part of the Zarafshan ridge. Ten species have been recorded for the first time in Uzbekistan: Chrysotoxum kirghizorum Peck, 1974, Eupeodes asiaticus (Peck, 1972), Scaeva dignota (Rondani, 1857), Syrphus rectus Osten Sacken, 1875, Xanthogramma hissarica Violovitsh, 1975, Chrysogaster cemiteriorum (Linnaeus, 1758), Cheilosia aerea Dufour, 1848, Ch. lola Zimina, 1970, Ch. stackelbergi Barkalov & Peck, 1994, and Volucella bella Barkalov, 2003. In addition, one genus – Neocnemodon Goffe, 1944 recorded for the first time for Uzbekistan.

First record of Triplax russica (Linnaeus, 1758) (Coleoptera, Erotylidae) from Kazakhstan

Izbasar I. Temreshev — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Pleasing fungus beetle Triplax russica (Linnaeus, 1758) from the family Erotylidae is firstly recorded from Kazakhstan. A key to known species of the genus Triplax from Kazakhstan is given. Birch brittlegill Russula betularum Hora, stinking russula Russula foetens Pers., 1796, are recorded from Kazakhstan for T. russica.

Myriapoda (Chilopoda, Diplopoda) of the South Ossetia

Yurii V. Dyachkov, Roman V. Zuev — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Myriapoda of the South Ossetia comprises not less than 13 species: 8 Chilopoda species (belong to 6 genera, 5 families, and 3 orders) and 5 Diplopoda species (belong to 4 genera, 2 families, and 2 orders). Class Chilopoda and 1 species of Diplopoda are new to the regional list.

Antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of extracts of Cetraria islandica (L.) Ach. and Cladonia arbuscula (Wallr.) Flot.

Marianna I. Soloveva, Sargylana S. Kuzmina — Wed, 22 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Lichens are symbiotic nature and produce unique secondary extracellular metabolites with high biological activity. In this paper, we compared the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of two lichen species. Furthermore, we determined the quantitative content of antioxidants of low molecular weight and antimicrobial activity of 40% of the water ethyl extracts of Cetraria islandica and Cladonia arbuscula lichens depending on the layers’ treatment methods and the ratio of dilution of the dry extract with water. Live parts of dried lichens collected in an ecologically clean area of Yakutia were used for extraction. The antioxidant activity of the water-ethanol extract of lichens was performed using a spectrophotometric method. Antimicrobial activity was established using the discodiffusion method in agar in various dilutions of dry lichen extract. The highest antioxidants of low molecular weight were found in Cetraria islandica in distilled water with solid to solvent ratio of 1:1 and in the Cladonia arbuscula extract – in a ratio of 1:5. At the same time, preliminary mechanochemical processing of lichen layer raw materials from lichen layers (particle size up to 1 mm) was shown to increase the yield of low-molecular antioxidants by up to 50% compared to coarse grinding (particle size 2 mm). The antibacterial activity of the studied lichens was tested in Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli by diluting the dry extract with water 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5. The most significant antibacterial effect was found in the extract of the studied lichens in a 1:1 ratio. The diameter of the bacteriostatic zone in Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes and Escherichia coli under the action of Cetraria islandica was 12±0.14 mm, 11±0.12 mm, and 12±0.13 mm, respectively. The suppression of the growth zone with Cladonia arbuscula against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli was 15±0.18 mm, 12±0.20 mm, and 13±0.20 mm in diameter, respectively. The results were in accordance with the action of oxacillin but were more effective than the action of penicillin, which served as a control.

Water mites (Acariformes: Hydrachnidia, Halacaroidea) of the Malaya Sosva Nature Reserve (Western Siberia)

Maria O. Filimonova, Vitaly A. Stolbov, Sergey S. Tupicyn — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The paper presents data on the fauna of water mites (Acariformes, Hydrachnidia, Halacaroidea) of the Malaya Sosva State Nature Reserve (Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug), located in the middle taiga zone of Western Siberia. The study covered the species composition, biotopic distribution and ecological features of water mites in different lentic ecosystems of the Nature Reserve. The research is based on 36 studied water bodies, which represented the main types of stagnant waters common on the Nature Reserve territory: lakes, floodplain ponds, temporary ponds and sphagnum bogs. The study revealed 51 species of Hydrachnidia and two species of Halacaroidea in different lentic water bodies. Most of the mites belonged to species typical of different types of stagnant and low flowing waters rich in submerged vegetation. Lakes of different types and permanent floodplain ponds were the richest in number of species and the number of mites. In these water bodies, three species of water mites prevailed, namely, Limnesia koenikei Piersig, 1894, Piona pusilla Neumann, 1875, and Piona carnea Koch, 1836. The number and species richness of mites were low in temporary ponds, but their fauna was based on specific spring species characteristic of astatic ponds. The fauna of the sphagnum bogs was the poorest, in which one species of Halacaroidea was the eudominant – Porolohmannella violacea Kramer, 1879. Unionicola parvipora is recorded for the fauna of Russia for the first time.

First records of six species of Lepidoptera from Kunashir Island (Russia)

Elizaveta A. Spitsyna, Vitaly M. Spitsyn — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0700

This article presents the first records of six species of moths and butterflies from Kunashir Island. We report on the first records of Aemene obscura (Leech, 1889) from Russia (Kunashir Island), as well as Catocala dula Bremer, 1861, C. lara Bremer, 1861, C. dissimilis Bremer, 1861, Sphragifera sigillata (Menetries, 1859), and Argynnis sagana Doubleday, [1847] from Kunashir Island. Additionally, we provide commentary on distribution of Aberrasine aberrans (Butler, 1877).

Composition and structure of the fauna of ground beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae) of the Zerafshan Range

Fazlitdin Khalimov — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The article presents the results of studying the fauna of ground beetles in the western part of the Zerafshan Range (Uzbekistan). The Carabidae list includes 81 species from 41 genera, 18 tribes and nine subfamilies. The ecological diversity of the ground beetle fauna is analyzed on three parts of the ridge. The greatest diversity of Carabidae is noted in the Karatepo Mountains (74 species), and the smallest in the Zirabulak-Ziyadin Mountains (54 species). The fauna of the ground beetles of the Chakalikalyan and Karatepa Mountains are closer to each other (Jaccard index – 0.79, Chekanovsky-Sørensen coefficient – 0.89). The lowest value of the similarity coefficients was noted between the Chakalikalyan and Zirabulak-Ziadin Mountains (0.64; 0.78). The most numerous are Anchomenus dorsalis (10.46%), Calathus ambiguus (8.23%), Amara aenea (7.48%) and Harpalus rufipes (6.03%).

Taxonomic diversity and structure of phytoplankton in heterotypic lakes of Kulunda basin (Altai Krai)

Yulia N. Kosacheva, Elena Yu. Mitrofanova, Petr A. Kosachev — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0700

In 2001–2021, the taxonomic composition and structure of phytoplankton in the heterotypic lakes of the Kulunda basin were studied. By the average and maximum depths and the way of salt accumulation, these lakes belong to deep-water brine, medium-deep brine, shallow-water brine, shallow-water self-sediment and drying up in summer period types of reservoirs. 241 species, 5 varieties and 3 forms of algae from 7 divisions, 17 classes, 7 subclasses, 44 orders, 78 families, and 130 genera were identified. The greatest taxonomic diversity was noted in the divisions Cyanobacteria, Chlorophyta, and Ochrophyta; the most classes (5) were in the division Ochrophyta; the most taxa with a rank above the family were in the subdivision Diatomeae (3 classes, 4 subclasses, 14 orders) and the division Chlorophyta (3 classes, 11 orders). In the spectrum of families, 12 ones (of 78) are leading with 34.6% of the total number of genera and 48.5% of the total number of species. The taxa spectrum is characterized by one-, two- and three-species families. The largest number of species in phytoplankton was found mostly in deep- and medium-deep lakes with a wide variety of biotopes both horizontally and vertically. The dependence of the number of species in the phytoplankton of the lakes on various environmental factors and features of the reservoirs (morphometric characteristics, water and air temperature, precipitation, salinity, pH, the Wolf number, some anions and cations) was analyzed. It was revealed that the correlation was higher for the smaller on area and volume water bodies, and less – for the larger and deeper ones.

Fauna and population of passerine birds in the lower reaches of the Bolshaya Rechka River (Altai Territory, Bolsherechensky Reserve)

Sergey V. Vazhov, Alex V. Matsyura, Viktor M. Vazhov — Sun, 19 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The aim of the work is to supplement the current data on the fauna and population of passerine birds on the Nature Reserve "Bolsherechensky", located in the Altai Territory in the lower reaches of the Bolshaya Rechka River. The territory of the preserve is typical for the Verkhneobskiy forest area. One of the primary duties of the Nature Reserve is to protect the habitats of rare and endangered bird species. However, the modern avifauna in the reserve, despite several previous reports, remains underestimated and not sufficiently studied. Our work has been carried out over the spring and summer of 2012, 2013, 2017 and 2021. The number of species was estimated based on their density obtained during the survey, and a point scale was used to describe the species. We concluded that the summer (breeding) passerine bird populations of the Nature Reserve "Bolsherechensky" consist of 12 families and 35 species, while the presence of 15 rare bird species was registered in the Reserve. Our results will enrich the data bank on the fauna and the population of passerine birds of the lower reaches of the Bolshaya Rechka River in the Nature Reserve "Bolsherechensky", which can be used to improve biodiversity conservation measures.

Phytoplankton of the Ket River (Tomsk Region)

Olga P. Bazhenova, Natalya N. Barsukova — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The characteristic of the phytoplankton of the Ket River (Tomsk region) is given based on the results of studies in July 2019 and 2021. The species composition and taxonomic structure of phytoplankton were established; a complex of dominant species was identified, and the abundance, biomass and biodiversity indices of phytoplanktocenosis were calculated. Green algae (Chlorophyta) and significant number of euglenids (Euglenophyta) form the basis of phytoplankton species richness. The dominant complex is formed by centric diatoms and cyanoprokaryotes. Biodiversity indices indicate high species richness, average complexity and balanced structure of phytoplanktocenosis. Trophic status of the river corresponds to eutrophic category of waters, the water quality corresponds to class 3 "satisfactory purity".

New data on the zooplankton of watercourses of the National Park “Krasnoyarsk Stolby”

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Based on natural materials collected by the authors in 2020-2022, data on zooplankton in the watercourses of the “Krasnoyarsk Stolby” National Park are summarized. A list of 85 species is given: 38 species and subspecies of rotifers, 26 species of cladocerans, 11 species of cyclops, and 10 species of harpacticidae. For the first time, 24 species of rotifers, 10 species of cladocerans, 14 species of copepods were discovered or identified to species.

Search for new sources of bioactive compounds in the flora of Southern Siberia and evaluation of the potential for their use

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The paper addresses the issue of the search for plants containing bioactive compounds and evaluation of the potential for their use. A methodology and an algorithm have been developed to conduct comprehensive studies using methods of taxonomy and plant ecology, phytochemistry, botanical geography, and resource studies. The developed algorithm has been implemented for large taxa of the family Asteraceae Dumort. 1820 from the flora of Southern Siberia (tribe Cynareae Lam. ex DC. 1813 and genus Artemisia L., 1753). Four groups of plants were identified, and recommendations on their use were elaborated. The group of promising species included 20 representatives of the tribe Cynareae (from the genera Saussurea DC. 1979, Serratula L. 1753, Centaurea L. 1753, Cirsium Mill. 1754) and 15 species of the genus Artemisia. The algorithm enabled identification of 30 species of the tribe Cynareae and 8 species of the genus Artemisia that need special conservation measures.

Isolation and identification of Saprolegnia spp. from infected sturgeon caviar

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0700

Saprolegniosis is considered one of the most common fungal diseases in freshwater aquaculture, affecting eggs and fish of all ages, and is causing great economic losses worldwide. In sturgeon aquaculture, highest harm is caused by caviar saprolegniosis (byssus), a mycotic disease of caviar, which is characterized by damage through saprolegnium fungi during hatchery incubation. The main infectious agents are aquatic mold fungi of the genus Saprolegnia spp. A sample of water mold was isolated from infected eggs of a hybrid of Russian sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii) with kaluga (Huso dauricus) with characteristic signs of the disease. Microscopic examination of an isolated oomycete revealed morphological features characteristic of Saprolegnia spp., but no oogonia or antheridia were found, which complicates further species identification. To identify the isolated pathogen, molecular tools such as PCR and sequencing of a DNA section including 18S rRNA, ITS1, 5.8S rRNA, ITS2 and 28S rRNA were used to distinguish between different species of aquatic molds. Analysis of the obtained nucleotide sequence showed more than 99% identity with the previously known DNA sequences of S. parasitica. According to the results of phylogenetic analysis, the obtained nucleotide sequence was in the same group with the known sequences of S. parasitica and separated from other species belonging to S. ferax, S. diclina, S. delica, and S. australis.

Expansion of the secondary range of Polygraphus proximus Blandford (Coleoptera; Curculionidae, Scolytinae): invasion of Khamar-Daban mountains (Republic of Buryatia)

Ivan Kerchev, Roman Bykov, Yury Ilinsky — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0700

The four-eyed fir bark beetle Polygraphus proximus Blandford, 1894 (Coleoptera; Curculionidae, Scolytinae) is an alien Far-Eastern stem pest rapidly spreading in the dark coniferous forests of Siberia. In 2021 we conducted a forest pathology research of Khamar-Daban fir forests in south coast of Baikal Lake. The main aim was to inspect the territory for populations of this species. We found three localities with P. proximus on two out of four transects and based upon photo materials represented by stuff of the Baikal Nature Reserve revealed another locality inhabited by the species. The characteristics of P. proximus populations such as occurrence, production, population density and the population growth rate in new localities were estimated. Since of our previous forest pathological inspection in 2014 it had spread eastward in Baikal region by at least 95 km. The highest site of P. proximus population was the slope of the valley of the Bolshoi Mamai River at an altitude of 1030 m above sea level. The estimated average speed of spread was about of 13-14 km per year. However, the most presumable invasion pathway of this species is the Trans-Siberian Railway. Thus, genetic analysis of sampled insects for the COI marker (mtDNA) revealed haplogroup I that previously was found as dominant variant in populations of Kemerovo and Tomsk Provinces. Despite the scattered distribution of P. proximus in Khamar-Daban fir forests the high population growth rate allows us to expect the formation of outbreaks during next decade.

Landscape diversity as an attraction basis in the design of tourist and recreational areas (the case of Bolshaya Belokurikha)

Sat, 31 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The article discusses the assessment of landscape diversity and biodiversity in a projected tourist-recreational territory. Bolshaya Belokurikha, located at the junction of the Altai plains and mountains, is used as a case study to illustrate the significance of these factors. The study area covers a 40 km section from Makaryevka to Krasny Gorodok villages, which attracts more than 250 thousand tourists annually due to its favorable climatic conditions and landscape diversity. The authors use modern methods, including mathematical modeling and spatial data analysis, to develop a GIS model of landscape diversity using the Shannon method of numerical entropy estimation. The model is presented as an isolinear map for cartographic visualization. The authors emphasize the importance of natural and ecological elements in the tourist frame of the projected area. They also propose considering landscape diversity as a stimulating factor for tourism development and as a basis for sustainable development of tourist territories in a two-level design, which includes the tourist-recreational complex and tourist area. To efficiently use the potential of the territory and ensure maximum preservation of existing landscapes, the authors suggest using constructed maps and GIS models of landscape diversity and biodiversity as a basis for functional zoning of the territory. This approach would help identify areas suitable for tourist development while also preserving the flora and fauna species diversity. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive approach to the sustainable development of tourist-recreational territories. By using modern methods and GIS models, the authors demonstrate how landscape diversity and biodiversity can be integrated into the planning and management of tourist areas, leading to a more sustainable and responsible approach to tourism development.

Above-ground phytomass and chemical composition dynamics of Stipeta Zalesskii phytocenosis in Ural-Ilek interfluves

Neilya V. Dusaeva, Olga G. Kalmykova, Gulnara Kh. Dusaeva — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

We carried our investigationsin one of the typical phytocenosesof the Trans-Volga-Kazakhstan herb bunchgrass steppes underprotected regime conditions. Forb-fescue-feather grass steppe community (Stipa zalesskii, S. lessingiana, Herbae stepposae) with Helictotrichon desertorum (Less.) Nevski and petrophytous elementswere considered as a model. The dynamics of the above-ground phytomass stocks of this community was on the “Burtinskaya steppe” site in the Orenburg State Nature Reserve using thesquare sample cut method. The content of the main macroelements N, K, Na, Ca, P, and Mg is determined. The Federal State Budgetary Institution and the State Agrochemical Service Center “Orenburgsky” conducted the analysis of the plant samples.The resultsobtained were compared with the available literary data. Statistical analysis using the nonparametric Mann-Whitney U-test (α=0.05) in Statistica 6.1 revealed significant differences in the content of some macroelements between the drought year 2015 and the wet year 2016. The share of cereals (dominant community Stipa zalesskii Wilensky, codominant S. lessingiana Trin. & Rupr.), both in living above-ground phytomass and in dead grass, have been prevailing. The following series of accumulation of elements: N>K>Na>Ca>P>Mg was common for both fractures in most reference periods. The above-ground phytomass stocks in the examined community ranged from 335 g/m² to 404 g/m² in 2015 and from 525 g/m² to 678 g/m² in 2016. The findings obtained complement the available data for grasslands and pastures, present the opportunity to assess them comparatively with reference to standard and steppe zones, and serve as the foundation for further monitoring.

Ontogenetic changes in the live weight of Saker falcon (Falco cherrug) chicks during the artificial feeding from hatching to transferring

Sergey I. Snigirev, Lidiya B. Mendel — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The dynamics of changes in the live weight of saker falcon (Falco cherrug) chicks in the early postnatal period and the comparison of the growth energy of chicks of different morphometric groups during artificial feeding from hatching to transferring were investigated. The average period of minimum live weight gain in saker falcon chicks was 144–192 hours. The chicks with a smaller initial weight compensated it with higher growth energy on days 6–7 compared to the larger chicks.

Fatty acid profile and biochemical properties of Dracocephalum palmatum Steph. ex Willd in extreme climate conditions

Vasiliy V. Nokhsorov, Nadezhda К. Chirikova — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The composition of fatty acids in the general lipid balance of Dracocephalum palmatum Steph. Ex Willd that is found in extreme climatic conditions (Northern Pole of Cold) was researched by thinlayer and gas-liquid chromatography. This research aims to study the fatty acid profile of the perennial species Dracocephalum palmatum used as a medicinal herb in traditional medicine. We established that polyunsaturated fatty acids [FA], and more specifically linoleic and alpha-Linoleic acids, are prevalent in the lipidic constitution. The exceptional resilience of arctic and boreal plants is attributed to their flexible energy system that includes carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. The latter are crucial in the energy balance of plants because they function as the main accumulator of spare energy and can create optimal conditions in cell membranes, unlike carbohydrates and proteins. Polyunsaturated fatty acids [PFA] present in the lipid layer allow the membranes to stay in the liquid state. Fat oxidation releases an amount of water that is considerably greater than that released by the combustion of carbohydrates and proteins. This research reveals that the fluidity of membranes in the arctic plant in question is optimal due to a high level of unsaturated lipids. The high amount of unsaturated FA in Dracocephalum palmatum lipids is attributed to the plant adapting to its poor growing conditions. We assume that late flowering plants with a higher than average level of PFA (linoleic and linolenic acids) higher than average play an important role in the conservation of reaction energy resources of animals in the northern environment.

Time-series analysis of zooplankton diversity in upper reaches of the Ob River

Olga Burmistrova — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Long-term data sets on various ecosystem parameters serve as the basis for environmental monitoring. Time series analysis is used to identify the structure of dynamic series and their prediction. The demographic characteristics of zooplankton are well suited to analyze seasonal and interannual changes in ecosystems. Since the dynamics of species richness and river flow are often interdependent, we studied zooplankton biodiversity in the upper reaches of the Ob River in relation to the phases of the water regime. A six-year sampling of zooplankton was performed from surface water from the Ob River at two stations near the city of Barnaul. In total, 203 species and forms of zooplankton were detected. In all phases of the water cycle, Rotifera dominated in species number. To analyze the species diversity of zooplankton, we used 20 indices, of which 10 were not random on both coasts and could be used in monitoring. The species diversity of zooplankton in a sample, according to Margalef and Menhinick indices, was the highest during the recession of the second flood wave. The generalized measures of diversity (Williams polydominance and Shannon indices, and Fischer alpha) showed their maximum during the recession of the second wave of high water and in the summer low water period. Statistically significant declines in trends of some species diversity are evidence of small changes in the structure of the zooplankton. Time series analysis in the assessment of community biodiversity helps to select indices suitable for predicting ecosystem state, as well as to identify related changes in the community.

Sulfur content in needles of cedar (Pinus sibirica Du Tour) and siberian fir (Abies sibirica Ledeb.) of the Southern Baikal Region: Influence of industrial emissions

Ludmila V. Kanitskaya, Olga I. Gorbunova, Olga A. Belykh — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The paper presents the results of studying the sulfur content in the needles of cedar and Siberian fir of the Southern Baikal Region, carried out in the 2014–2015 period. The research aims to determine whether Baikal Pulp and Paper Mill (BPPM) are the primary stress factor of abiotic nature, which leads to the degradation of cedar and Siberian fir stands in the Southern Baikal Region. The authors have determined that the primary factor is the long-term impact of the emission of pollutants from heat power companies in the Irkutsk Region, as indicated by numerous studies using mathematical modeling methods. The research demonstrates that the assimilation organs of the cedar are more sensitive to the effects of sulfur dioxide compared to the needles of Siberian fir. Therefore, cedar needles can be considered as a more sensitive indicator of atmospheric pollution with sulfur dioxide. The authors have established that the primary source of contamination of Siberian fir needles is the SO₂ emission from the heat and power enterprises of the Irkutsk Region and not the emission of sulfur-containing compounds of the BPPM. The authors found that in the period from 2010 to 2019, the total SO₂ emissions from large industrial companies were an order of magnitude lower than the volumes of SO₂ emissions from heat power companies in the Irkutsk Region. These emissions will provoke a further deterioration in the state of the boreal forests of the Southern Baikal Region.

Morphophysiological characterization of Bupleurum aureum in natural populations of the Republic of Tatarstan

Olga A. Timofeeva, Svetlana A. Dubrovnaya, Landysh Z. Khusnetdinova — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

We have carried out comprehensive studies of the natural populations of Bupleurum aureum under the conditions of the Republic of Tatarstan. Therefore, we used population research, morphometric, and physiological methods in this research. In addition, we studied the morphophysiological heterogeneity of the natural populations of Bupleurum aureum, the dynamics of the population size over three years in the forests of various natural zones of the Republic of Tatarstan. For all cenopopulations, a proportional contribution of aboveground biomass to the achievement of the generative sphere can be observed, even with a significant deterioration in the growth of particular plants. We noted a decrease in plant size in low illuminated and nitrogen-poor soils (1 CP). However, plants had the best indicators of raw material quality, flavonoids content in terms of rutin, as well as soluble phenolic compounds. Powerful plants were formed under optimal conditions in deciduous forests of the forest-steppe zone, but the content of flavonoids in all parts of the plants was insignificant. However, for plants in this natural zone, a higher content of tannins was recorded. Within the republic, the species was sufficiently stable, had high plasticity, and was self-renewable. However, this species needs to be preserved, so collection of its raw materials is not recommended due to the small area of forest within which Bupleurum grows. We suggested creating artificial plantings of this species with the recreation of conditions that ensure the synthesis and accumulation of various groups of phenolic compounds.

New habitats of three rare orchid species in the Altai Republic (upper Biya River basin)

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Many species of Orchidaceae Juss. are known as beautifully flowering plants, having medicinal, food, decorative, and other qualities. All this draws attention to orchids and promotes their extermination. The expansion of the tourism and recreational development of the Altai Republic and the economic activity of the population aggravate the processes of reduction of rare species of the Orchidaceae Juss. In this sense, the search for new orchid locations is relevant. The purpose of this work is to supplement the database on habitats of rare orchid species in the Altai Republic. Five new habitats of three orchid species were established in the northeast Altai in the basin of the upper Biya River. Cypripedium guttatum Sw. Cypripedium macranthon Sw., and Dactylorhiza fuchsii (Druce) Soo (Orchis fuchsii (Druce), information that is missing in the third edition of the Altai Republic Regional Red Book. Two orchid locations were found in the lower reaches of the Tuloy River valley, a third was found in the lower reaches of the Tondoshka River, the fourth was registered near the Turochak village and the fifth was observed on the left bank of the Biya River near the village Verkh-Biysk. All new habitats were registered in the Turochaksky district of the Altai Republic.

Locomotor activity of the Holarctic molluscs Radix auricularia (from Lake Baikal) in various light pollution conditions

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Light pollution is a modern environmental problem. The scale of light pollution is increasing yearly and is negatively affecting the functioning of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Of the aquatic ecosystems, marine ecosystems are the most studied, while there is very little information on the effect of artificial lighting on freshwater ecosystems. Among freshwater aquatic organisms, there are relatively little data on the effect of artificial light on crustaceans and fish, while we could find no meaningful data on the effect of artificial light on molluscs are practically absent. Here we test whether different types of artificial lighting, differing in their spectra, affect the activity of the Holarctic mollusc Radix auricularia. For this, we used two light sources (with warm and cold light) and a 1-m long aquarium. We found that both light sources affect individuals of this species, but the effects of this exposure are different. Artificial lighting (depending on the spectral characteristics) can increase the activity of molluscs of this species or reduce it. In the long term, the impact on the ecosystem will depend on the type of water body where light pollution is present, where individuals of this species live, and the type of light sources.

Checklist of longicorn beetles (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) of Omsk Region (Russia)

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

An annotated check-list of the longicorn beetles of Omsk Region is given. The list based on literature data and collecting materials of authors. 41 species are new to the fauna of Omsk Region.

Biological features of Amaranthus blitum L. and A. retroflexus L. invading potato plantings

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The paper addressed the study of some biological features of two weed species of Amaranthus L. – a widespread species A. retroflexus L. confined to Siberia and a rare species Amaranthus blitum L. Plants of different vital status were found in populations of two species invading potato plantations. The paper reports the morphometric parameters of normally developed and small plants of both species. The features of seed germination and the degree of seedling development were revealed. Laboratory experiments were performed to find out the effect of aqueous extracts of the herb Melilotus officinalis (L.) Pallas on germination and development of seedlings of two Amaranthus species. The root elongation bioassay of Amaranthus blitum seedlings showed a higher phytotoxic effect of the Melilotus officinalis extract compared to Helianthus annuus L. and Helianthus tuberosus L. extracts.

Invertebrates of Siberia, a potential source of animal protein for innovative food production. 1. The keelback slugs (Gastropoda: Limacidae)

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The use of terrestrial invertebrates occurring in Siberia as a source of nutrients is an innovative form of new quality food production in North Asia. The species available for this production should be qualified by necessary criteria; for example, they should be common in the region and easily obtainable, free from restriction or prohibition as rare or protected species, adapted to regional environmental conditions, and their bodies should be free from toxins and allergens. They should also be unpretentious in terms of housing, consumption of cheap and suitable feed which provides a satisfactory increase in biomass and contains necessary nutrients in the required ratio. Several local species of terrestrial molluscs and insects fit these criteria and have been were selected as model species, such as the yellow slug Limacus flavus (Linnaeus, 1758) which has been studied in detail. Individuals of this slug were collected from a subterranean vegetable store in the city of Novosibirsk, and reared for 5 months under laboratory conditions with different lighting, humidity and temperature. Standard vegetables for winter storage, carrot, cabbage and potato (the preferred ingredient), were provided to the slugs. The most effective factors for the development of body weight and size of the slugs were registered in the dark under moderate humidity and temperature. Average weight and length of slugs at the beginning of the experiment in March 2022 were 0.62 gram and 3.42 mm, and at the end of the experiment in August 2022 were 3.67 gram and 5.76 mm (respectively x 5.9 and x 1.7). Therefore, basement and underground cold premises lacking constant lighting and provided with potato waste as a feeding substrate appear to be optimal for raising and rearing this slug species; naturally this would be of particular interest for food production in regions with cold climate conditions.

Dynamics of the bioclimatic potential of agroecological zones of the Altai Territory in the conditions of modern climatic and anthropogenic changes

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The steppe zone is characterized by high dynamism of environmental conditions including sharp climatic fluctuations that affect both the possibilities of agriculture and the state of steppe landscapes. Further development of agriculture without taking into account changing climatic and environmental factors increases risks both for steppe ecosystems and for the sustainability of agriculture. The field production of the agro-climatic zones of the Altai Territory is characterized by the high variability of gross yields associated with the dynamics of precipitation, air temperature, and soil fertility. Under the current conditions, the analysis of the temporal and spatial dynamics of bioclimatic potential is of high practical importance for the development and implementation of adaptive agricultural technologies. A retrospective analysis was carried out and a modern bio-climatic characteristic of model territories representing various agroecological zones was compiled for this purpose. The object of research was data on average daily, average monthly, and average annual air temperatures, the level of precipitation, the water vapor pressure, and relative humidity. Statistical processing of analytical data was carried out in Excel. Calculations revealed significant temporal and spatial dynamics of the BCP. Spatially, it is characterized by a significant decrease in a north-western orientation. The lowest average values, 1.71-1.81 units, were observed in the Kulunda and Rubtsovskaya agroecological zones, with a coefficient of variation of more than 20.0%. The Zarinskaya and Aleyskaya agroecological zones were characterized by the highest values of BCP, and the Predgornaya zone presented maximum values of BCP, at the level of 2.70 units with high stability. Temporally, the BCP of the Zarinskaya, Kulunda, and Priobskaya agroclimatic zones is characterized by a negative trend; in other zones, its almost zero balance is noted. A sufficiently expressed difference in the BCP of various agroecological zones has an impact on the realization of the biological potential of cultivated crops. Analysis of the level of development of the vegetative mass of spring wheat by determining NDVI confirmed this assumption. For a systematic assessment of the influence of climatic and anthropogenic factors on the production process of field crops and the development of measures for the rational use of agricultural landscapes, it is advisable to determine the potential yield according to the BCP, determine the degree of its implementation in the economic harvest and justify techniques for leveling limiting factors in agrotechnology of individual agroecological zones.

The state of agrocenosises and hayfield meadows in farm units of Prialeisk soil and climate zone (Altai Krai)

Sat, 17 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

This paper presents the results of the estimation of agrocenoses and hayfield meadows of Prialeisk soil and climate zone in Altai krai. For the period 2001-2021 there is a pronounced trend for increasing yields in almost all crops. The exception includes only permanent grasses for green feed which is explained by aridization of the climate and the established agrotechnology in recent decades. Data analysis shows that planting acreages have decreased for such crops as spring wheat (from 107.3 thousand ha in 2001 to 59.7 thousand ha in 2021), oat (from 8.6 thousand ha in 2001 to 6.2 thousand ha in 2021) and permanent grasses (from 15.4 thousand ha in 2001 to 4.8 thousand ha in 2021). When estimating the monitoring areas with agrocenoses on the water index calculated using Sentinel-2 data it was identified that for sainfoin, linen, sunflower, lucerne and corn the range of NDWI values ranged from -0.2 to 0.4. Whereas they were drought tolerant crops, stress was insignificant. Hayland haylages as forage lands did not have any negative index values. For oat and soy, the index indicators were lower, the values ranged from -0.2 to 0.25. A value range for wheat varied from -0.2 to 0.3. Buckwheat was rich in phytomass and the NDWI value range was from -0.1 to 0.45. That gave evidence of the sufficient water availability of the crop. Agrocenoses productivity depended on the level of the area moistening and the soil and climate conditions were fairly homogeneous on the selected territories as correlation between ARVI and NDWI values was 0.9. According to the satellite data the most productive ones were oat crops with sainfoin and buckwheat.

New records of Noctuoidea (Insecta: Lepidoptera) from the South of West Siberia

Svyatoslav A. Knyazev, Vadim V. Ivonin, Sofya M. Saikina — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The article presents 13 species of Noctuoidea superfamily from Omsk and Novosibirsk regions of Russia. 6 species are new to Omsk region, 8 species are new to Novosibirsk region. 4 species are new to the Russian part of the West Siberian Plain, among them, Schrankia balneorum (Alphéraky, 1880), Spodoptera exigua (Hübner, 1808), Leucochlaena fallax (Staudinger, 1870), Mythimna anderreggii (Boisduval, 1840).

A checklist of bark and ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera: Scolytidae and Platypodidae) from Siberia and the Russian Far East

Andrei A. Legalov — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Currently, 185 species of the family Scolytidae and three species of the family Platypodidae are recorded from Asian Russia. In total, 99 species of bark beetles are found in Siberia and 168 species in the Russian Far East. Platypodidae are known anly from the south of the the Russian Far East. Two species of Scolytidae are found in Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, 13 species in Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug, 19 species in Tyumen Oblast, four species in Kurgan Oblast, three species in Omsk Oblast, 37 species in Tomsk Oblast, 28 species in Novosibirsk Oblast, 32 species in Kemerovo Oblast, 25 species in Altay Krai, 53 species in Altai Republic, 62 species in Krasnoyarsk Krai, 11 species in Republic of Khakassia, 24 species in Tyva Republic, 55 species in Irkutsk Oblast, 61 species in Buryatiya Republic, 40 species in Zabaikalskii Krai, 52 species in Sakha (Yakutia) Republic, 25 species in Kamchatka Oblast, one species in Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, 19 species in Magadan Oblast, 45 species in Amur Oblast, one species in Jewish Autonomous Oblast, 67 species in Khabarovsk Krai, 130 species in Primorsky Krai, 87 species in Sakhalin Is. and 68 species in Kuriles Isl.

Lepidoptera of South Ossetia (Northern Transcaucasia). Part II. Cossidae, Limacodidae, Erebidae (Lymantriinae, Arctiinae, Syntominae, Notodontinae), Lasiocampidae, Lemoniidae, Saturniidae, Sphingidae, Drepanidae and Cimeliidae

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

In the third part of the publication, we present the faunal list of nine families of the Macrolepidoptera of South Ossetia, including 4 species of Cossidae, 2 species of Limacodidae, 40 species of Erebidae, 15 species of Sphingidae, 6 species of Lasiocampidae, 1 species of Saturniidae and Lemoniidae, 5 species of Drepanidae and 1 species of Cimeliidae. Fifty nine species are reported for South Ossetia for the first time.

Phenotypic plasticity of the stem epidermis in the bluegrasses (Poa L.) of section Stenopoa Dumort. (Poaceae). I. Mesomorphic species

Marina V. Olonova, Valeriia D. Shiposha, Roman S. Romanets — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Section Stenopoa Dumort. is one of the largest representatives of the bluegrass genus (Poa L.). Despite relative antiquity, P. palustris L. and P. nemoralis L. have not been perserved in original states. Their ongoing evolution and hybridization has increased their diversity and has complicated the system. This obligate to search for new morphological characters, suitable for taxa discrimination, as well as for phylogenetic relationships. It is well known, that studying of grasses is difficult, bluegrass in particular. The reasons for this are next: their vegetative and reproductive organs structure is extremely uniform; the number of characters used in taxonomy is small as well as the number of these characters states. Meanwhile, characters of epidermis structure are widely used in the systematics and diagnostics of grasses. These characters consist of a presence or an absence of pubescence along the veins, lower lemmas keel and callus, and an rachilla. The main goal of the current work is to assess the variability of epidermis sculptural features, that determine the degree of stems and sheaths roughness of mesomorphic bluegrasses in Stenopoa section; and to assess the possibility of using these characters in taxonomy. Anatomical surfaces' study of stems and lower leaf sheaths was carried out with a Biolam-1 binocular light microscope (Russia) and a SEC SNE-4500M (SEM) scanning electron microscope (South Korea). Studies of diversity of stem and leaf epidermis structure on mass and serial herbarium materials showed that the change in the roughness degree has partly continual, partly discrete character. Sculptural formations are represented by a variety of crown cells, pricles, and bristles, that in fact are short stiff hairs. Thus, the characters of epidermis structure cannot be used as discriminators for mesomorphic bluegrasses of the Stenopoa section. These characters can act as additional ones and mark the evolutionary branches of P. palustris and P. nemoralis along with such morphological features as the length of the ligule and the rachilla pubescence.

Phenotypic plasticity of the stem epidermis in the bluegrasses (Poa L.) of section Stenopoa Dumort. (Poaceae). II. Xeromorphic species

Marina V. Olonova, Valeriia D. Shiposha, Roman S. Romanets, Harsh Singh — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Section Stenopoa is one of the most significant among the bluegrasses, and its proper identifying is important task. The epidermal characters, which determine the degree of roughness of the bluegrasses, are used widely in botanical literature, but the information on bluegrasses characters is controversial frequently. This work is devoted to the study of xeromorphic representatives of the section. The aim of this work was to assess the variability of the sculptural features of the epidermis, which determine the degree of roughness of the stems within xeromorphic bluegrass of the Stenopoa section, and the possibility of using these characters in taxonomy. The types of epidermal trychomes and their variability and frequencies within the populations of 12 species were researched using SEM and light microscope. As a result of the study, no species-specific types of epidermal structure were revealed. In all the studied species, with the exception of the Central Asian hybridogenic species Poa psilolepis, the epidermis of the stem and leaf sheaths contained crown cells and pricles or bristles in varying proportions. Under the panicle only crown cells or pricles directed upwards were observed. The most species showed high interpopulation and intrapopulation variability. At the same time, the Central Asian species were distinguished by less polymorphism and a small number of deviated individuals in the populations. The conducted studies cast doubt on the possibility of widespread use of epidermal sculpture as a discriminator for xeromorphic Stenopoa species, including for distinguishing between the Siberian P. stepposa and the European P. erythropoda.

Review of the Dyspessa salicicola (Eversmann, 1848) species group (Lepidoptera, Cossidae: Cossinae)

Roman V. Yakovlev, Nazar A. Shapoval, Galina N. Shapoval, Artem E. Naydenov — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The article gives a revision on the species group Dyspessa salicicola (Eversmann, 1848) (Lepidoptera, Cossidae, Cossinae). The group comprises six valid taxa, namely D. salicicola salicicola, D. salicicola aschabadensis Daniel, 1953, D. saissanica Yakovlev, 2014, D. kostjuki Yakovlev, 2005, D. arabesca Yakovlev, 2005 and D. muelleri Yakovlev, sp. nov. (type locality: “Nord Jordanien, Totes Meer-Ostufer, Wadi Ibn Hammad”), united by a specific habitus (the yellow forewing with a remarkable pattern of spots). Detailed data on the distribution of all the species are provided, short diagnoses are given. The article is illustrated with images of specimens from different localities and male genitalia of all the considered taxa.

What is Semagystia clathrata (Christoph, 1884) (Lepidoptera, Cossidae: Cossinae)?

Roman V. Yakovlev — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The article gives a redescription of the little studied species, Semagystia clathrata (Christoph, 1884) (Lepidoptera, Cossidae: Cossinae). For the first time, we provide the images of the male and female adults from various portions of the distribution range, and describe the male genitalia. The species is reported for the first time for the fauna of Kazakhstan (Mangystau Region). The species distribution map is presented, the article is illustrated with nine figures.

Ecological preferences and abundances of populations of protected lichens in linden forests on the Salair Ridge in Altai Territory

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

For a comprehensive assessment of the habitats of rare and vulnerable lichen species, the Tilia sibirica forest in the Zarinsky Districts of the Altai Territory was studied. Plant communities were described on 25 sample plots. Seven species of lichens listed in the Red data book of the Altai Territory were found in the studied forests: Graphis scripta, Heterodermia speciosa, Lobaria pulmonaria, Nephroma bellum, Ramalina roesleri, R. sinensis, and R. vogulica. New quantitative data on cenopopulations of the studied lichen species in Salair region have been obtained. Ecological preferences are indicated for each species and the abundance of populations (dm2/ha) are calculated. Linden forest is shown to have a high conservation value regarding lichens.

Biological features of the formation of Festuca rubra L. (Poaceae) seed productivity on the southeast of Kazakhstan

Irina V. Khussainova, Galina A. Zueva — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The article presents the results of seven sorts of Festuca rubra L. seed productivity of lawn significance, representing three subspecies and two local wild-growing forms. The onset of the main phenological phases in the first two years of plant life was analyzed, taking into account the weather conditions of the experience setting area, and a comparison between samples representing three subspecies was made. The correlation between the four signs of the reproductive sphere has been studied. The best indicators of seed productivity with high semination rate were noted in the varieties Phrida and Aida from the subspecies commutata and s. Echo from subspecies rubra. The significant relationship between the number and weight of seeds per panicle was revealed for all varieties. A strong variation of the relationship strength between potential and real seed productivity was noted. It has been established that mature fruiting plants of the first and second year are best able to realize their seed potential. Starting from the third year of seed production, the intensity of generative shoots formation in individual development and the yield of seeds from the registration area in row sowing sharply decreases.

Principles of the online Red Data Book development using biodiversity datasets: the Altai Mountain Country case

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Rare and endemic plant species could serve as a litmus test for analyzing current state of ecosystems that are rapidly changing under the anthropogenic pressure. Undisturbed foothills and mountainous areas are key places to conserve as they still retain the natural conditions as the human activity there is limited because of their difficult accessibility. We used biodiversity informatics methods for preparation of the online Red Data Book (plants) within the borders of particular natural unit – the Altai Mountain Country (AMC). The Herbarium ALTB (Barnaul) served as the empirical basis for the current study, and it is the largest plants collection from transboundary territory of the AMC and the main material of the "Flora Altaica" project. Thanks to the Herbarium ALTB digitizing, it becomes possible to identify endemics of the AMC transboundary territory and to establish the specificity of the flora without government and language barriers. Online Red Data Books created for the natural units are prospective for revealing of the endemism level and plants rarity rank. Our initial experience in the online Red Data Book development allow us to formulate some principals and approaches.

Aulacoseira capitalina sp. nov. (Bacillariophyta) from the Middle Miocene sediments of the Barguzin Valley, Baikal Rift Zone (Russia)

Lybov’ А. Titova, Abdulmonem I. Hassan, Marina V. Usoltseva — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Using light and scanning electron microscopy, a new species Aulacoseira capitalina Titova et Usoltseva from the Middle Miocene deposits of the Barguzin Valley is described. It is shown that the new species is similar to other elliptical species in terms of elliptical valve face profile, diameter, deep ringleist, but differs in the shape of separating spines, the absence of ridge structure and the shape of rimoportulae. The finding of A. capitalina in the Middle Miocene deposits of the Barguzin Valley expands the range of distribution of elliptical species.

Snow cover as a factor of radial growth of woody plants in different habitats of Altai

Nikolay I. Bykov, Natalia V. Rygalova, Anna A. Shigimaga — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The dependence of the of annual ring width of woody plants in the Altai Mountains on such parameters of snow cover as maximum thickness, water reserve, dates of disappearance, and establishment and duration of occurrence of stable snow cover, is analyzed. The data of the state hydrometeorological stations (HMS) and the authors’ own dendrochronological materials were used for the analysis. The features of the response of the radial growth to the snow cover parameters for various trees, fir (Abies sibirica L.), Siberian larch (Larix sibirica L.), Siberian stone pine (Pinus sibirica Du Tour), and pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), depending on the geographical location, were established.

Composition and structure of macroinvertebrate communities of lakes in different altitudinal zones of Russian Altai

Olga N. Vdovina, Liubov V. Yanygina, Dmitry M. Bezmaternykh — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0700

In 2002-2020, the composition and structure of benthic invertebrate communities from 36 lakes of the Russian Altai located at various (low, mid and high) altitudes were studied. Low-mountain and lowland lakes have a similar zoobenthos structure. With height, the taxonomic structure becomes more complicated, and the dominant taxa of macroinvertebrates change. The peculiar feature of bottom zoocenoses in mid- and high-altitude lakes is high frequency of occurrence and large contribution to the total biomass of crustaceans of the family Gammaridae. We described the trophic structure of zoobenthos and identified five main trophic groups. In terms of species number, the collector-detritus feeder and predator groups dominated in the trophic structure of all lakes. By biomass, the growing proportion of filter feeders and shredders was observed with increasing height.

The role of waterfalls in the structure of macroinvertebrate communities of the Tevenek River (Lake Teletskoye basin, Northeastern Altai)

Liubov V. Yanygina, Petr A. Shipunov — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Extreme waterfall conditions cause partition of aquatic ecosystems of waterfall streams into discrete zones. To assess the features of aquatic ecosystems that function in waterfall streams, macroinvertebrate communities of the Tevenek River (Lake Teletskoye basin, Northeastern Altai) were examined above and below the waterfall. The diversity, abundance, and biomass of macroinvertebrates were higher above than below the barriers. Gammarus korbuensis showed the most significant decrease in number (from 3.1 to 2.3 thousand ind./m2) probably due to the intensive use of amphipods as food for fish living in Lake Teletskoye. An additional factor in favor of the high species richness of macroinvertebrates in the upper reaches is the geomorphology of the waterfall river valley that contributes to the formation of more diverse conditions above the waterfalls. Hydrobiological studies of waterfall streams can help to understand the restructuring of benthic communities divided as a result of the human impact.

Additions to the fauna of Heterocera (Insecta, Lepidoptera) of the Republic of Khakassia and of the South of Krasnoyarsk Region (South Siberia, Russia) with a comparison of the moths flight timing after 100 years of W. Kozhantshikov's research

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Here we present additional data and the information about new records of Lepidoptera (Geometridae, Sphingidae, Lymantriidae, Erebidae s.str., Noctuidae, Arctiidae) from the Khakassia Republic and the South of Krasnoyarsk region. 45 species are reported for the fauna of both regions for the first time and the 4 species reliably confirmed. In our work, we use research records, collection of personal materials during 1986−2021 (collecting) seasons. As in works before, we acknowledge availability for several species, which were recorded here earlier doubtly. In addition, comparisons of moths flight activity 100 years agо and contemporary are given.

New records of native and alien true bugs (Heteroptera) from Kemerovo Region, Western Siberia, Russia

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The article provides first records of 20 true bugs species (Heteroptera) from seven families (Lygaeidae, Miridae, Tingidae, Acanthosomatidae, Berytidae, and Saldidae) in Kemerovo Region, Western Siberia, Russia. These species, except two, are known in other regions of the Asian part of Russia, thus, the novel data clarify their up-to-date distribution. Most of true bugs, including an alien Hoplomachus thunbergii (Fallén) (i.e. 70% of all species in the study) were found in two botanical gardens (Kuzbasskiy and Orbita) in Kemerovo Region, highlighting the importance of surveying such plantings when running faunal studies and inventories. Two alien species, H. thunbergii (fam. Miridae) and Arocatus rufipes Stål (fam. Lygaeidae) originating from the European and Far Eastern parts of Russia respectively, were found in the city of Kemerovo and represent novel records for the Asian part of Russia (the former species) and Siberia (the latter species). These species could be introduced to Kemerovo Region with plants for planting, plant material or transported with human vehicles. Further studies would be needed to confirm this hypothesis. Here we provide short synopses of the bionomics, distributional records and trophic associations for all species newly documented in Kemerovo Region. The images of adults and male genitalia are given for the majority of species.

New records of geometrid moths of the subfamily Larentinae (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) from the Amurskaya Oblast, Russian Far East

Aleksandr A. Kuzmin, Evgeniy A. Beljaev — Sat, 15 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0700

An annotated list of 12 species of geometrid moths of the subfamily Larentiinae (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) found for the first time on the territory of Amurskaya Oblast, the Russian Far East, is given. There are: Brabira artemidora (Oberthür, 1884), Acasis bellaria (Leech, 1891), Trichopteryx polycommata ([Denis et Schiffermüller], 1775), Idiotephria debilitata (Leech, 1891), Idiotephria evanescens (Staudinger, 1897), Thera variata ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775), Ecliptopera umbrosaria (Motschulsky, 1861), Triphosa dubitata (Linnaeus, 1758), Triphosa sericata (Butler, 1879), Operophtera relegata Prout, 1908, Hydrelia parvulata (Staudinger, 1897), and Venusia semistrigata (Christoph, 1881). From them, for 9 East Asian species these finds strongly expand to north-west their previously known areas.

Thereuoneminae Verhoeff, 1905 (Chilopoda: Scutigeromorpha: Scutigeridae), a new subfamily for the Russian fauna

Yurii V. Dyachkov — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Thereuonema tuberculata (Wood, 1862), genus Thereuonema Verhoeff, 1904, and subfamily Thereuoneminae Verhoeff, 1905 are recorded from Russia for the first time. A distribution map and illustrations are provided.

First record of Ceutorhynchus rusticus Gyllenhal, 1837 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) from Altai Krai, Western Siberia

Andrei A. Legalov, Sergei V. Reshetnikov — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0700

The first record of Ceutorhynchus rusticus Gyllenhal, 1837 (Curculionidae: Conoderinae: Ceutorhynchitae: Ceutorhynchini) from Altai Krai is given. The distribution map, illustrations and redescription of this species are presented. It is the first record from Altai Krai and the most southwestern finding in Siberia.

Species richness of scaled Chrysophytes in arctic waters in the Tiksi Region (Yakutia, Russia)

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0700

Searching for regularities in the species composition and diversity of scaled chrysophytes is crucial for monitoring Arctic waters within the concept of global climate change since these organisms are good indicators of environmental changes. Transmission electron microscopy allowed us to investigate the species diversity of scaled chrysophytes in 14 Arctic water bodies near the town of Tiksi (Yakutia) relative to hydrochemical gradients. We described a high species richness of scaled chrysophytes, 65 species from 6 genera: Chrysosphaerella (2), Paraphysomonas (8), Lepidochromonas (3), Spiniferomonas (10), Mallomonas (23), Synura (19). The water bodies we studied had a significantly different species composition. The composition of the species in the study area was confirmed to be affected by concentrations of water dissolved oxygen (O₂), ion nitrate (NO₃^-) and copper ion (Cu₂⁺) as well as by indicators of biological and chemical oxygen demand (BOD and COD). The species richness (α richness) is proved to be higher within creasing concentrations of COD and O2, while increasing concentrations of copper ions (Cu2 +) in water led to its reduction. According to ecological and biogeographic data, ubiquitous and cosmopolitan species prevailed in the longitudinal group of the study area (60 %), while polyzonal species (55 %) predominated in the latitudinal group. A high share of Arctic boreal species (19 %) and the presence of typically boreal species (11 %) were identified in the latitudinal group. A biogeographical distribution of scaled chrysophytes typical of Arctic water bodies in contemporary conditions that reflect global warming trends was described.