Acta Biologica Sibirica

Water mites (Acariformes: Hydrachnidia, Halacaroidea) of the Visimsky Nature Reserve (Central Urals)

Vitaly A. Stolbov — 2024-04-15

Water mites of the Urals have been poorly studied. In 2019–2020, we studied water mites from the water bodies of the Visimsky State Nature Biosphere Reserve and its surroundings, as well as from the territory of the Chusovaya River Nature Park. Different sites of watercourse of the Sulyom River, its tributaries, spring, permanent and temporary ponds were investigated. In total, 64 species of water mites Hydrachnidia and 6 species of Halacaridae were revealed. The upper areas of the Sulyom River and its small tributary, the Kamenka River, were richest in species diversity and number of water mites. In these rivers, rhitrobiontic species prevailed. In the middle and lower course of the Sulyom River the number and quantity of mite species were significantly lower. The diversity of mites in the Chusovaya River, near the confluence of the Sulyom River was low however, the highest mite numbers were noted here. The most specific associations of mites were revealed in the helocrene spring and in the sphagnum bogs. At the same time, mites from the standing waters of the Visimsky Reserve neighborhood, provided by water reservoir, artificial ponds and ditches, had a rather poor species composition and a low number. According to the faunal composition and structure of the acarofauna of the Visimsky Nature Reserve and the Central Urals are similar to East European, however, it has both, Eastern Palearctic elements and species currently only known from the Urals

Potentilla asterotricha (Rosaceae) is a mysterious narrowly local endemic of China from Gansu province

Alexey Kechaykin — 2024-04-14

This study provides new data on Potentilla asterotricha, a species endemic to China. The species was described in Gansu province without specific information on locations, collectors, or date of collection. It is not given in “Flora of China”. Additional herbarium materials we discovered in KUN, PE and WUK allowed us to significantly expand the information about this enigmatic taxon. It turned out that its classic habitat is Erlang Mountain in the south of Gansu province in Min County. Based on the presence of stellate hairs in the pubescence, P. asterotricha is assigned here to the section Fasciculato-pilosae. The closest species to it is P. acaulis, from which it differs in the presence of pinnate leaves in the basal rosette. Photos of the leaf blade and pubescence of P. asterotricha under a microscope, as well as a scanned image of its herbarium specimen, are presented. The map shows the distribution of the taxon under study and its putative parent species. The southern border of the P. acaulis range has been identified.

New subspecies of Melitaea sultanensis Staudinger, 1886, M. elisabethae Avinoff, 1910 and M. robertsi Butler, 1880 (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae)

Sergei V. Churkin — 2024-04-09

The paper presents the descriptions of 3 new taxa: Melitaea robertsi hersilia Churkin, Bogdanov et Kolesnichenko, ssp. nova is described from Suusamyr Mts., Tian-Shan (Kyrgyzstan), M. elisabethae tremasovi Churkin, Kolesnichenko et Bogdanov, ssp. nova from Mazorsky Range (Darvaz, Tadjikistan) and M. sultanensis sochivkoi Churkin, Kolesnichenko et Bogdanov, ssp. nova from Gardaniushti Mts. (South Tadjikistan). The holotypes of M. trivia bactriana Shchetkin, 1984 and M. t. chorasana Shchetkin, 1984 are figured for the first time.

Urban floristic diversity in the arid zone: a case study of Bukhara city

Saida M. Gafarova — 2024-04-08

The urban flora of Bukhara city has experienced a surge in recent years, attributed to the introduction of adventive plants from abroad. We conducted detailed floristic descriptions of green spaces along roads, near houses, in the central city Samonid recreation park, and at the "Ko'hna va boqiy Buxoro" recreation center. We registered that urban vegetation comprises 42 species of trees, 21 species of shrubs, and 70 species of herbaceous vegetation. The density of urban phytocenoses in the surveyed areas ranges from 40 to 55 species per 1000 m2, encompassing 21–28 tree species, 4–11 shrub species, and 14–28 herb species. Our findings indicate that the introduced vegetation comprises 79 species from 34 families, with ornamental trees (43 species) and shrubs (24 species). We have observed a steady increase in the number of introduced species entering the city through natural means, suggesting their successful acclimatization despite the arid conditions. The research emphasized the importance of green spaces in promoting social cohesion, community well-being, and preserving cultural heritage in Bukhara. Additionally, the study indicated a steady increase in the number of introduced species entering the city through natural means, reflecting ongoing beautification efforts and urban development projects. Overall, the qualitative data provided insights into the resilience and adaptability of urban flora in Bukhara, the impact of urbanization on plant diversity, and the significance of green spaces in enhancing the quality of urban environments. The patterns and trends observed in the qualitative data underscore the need for sustainable management strategies to conserve and enhance biodiversity in Bukhara city.

Methane emission from the Western Siberia’s wetland ecosystems in 2000–2050

Anatoly A. Lagutin — 2024-04-06

The interannual variability of methane emissions from wetland ecosystems of Western Siberia in 2000–2050 has been investigated. Calculations of CH₄ emission were performed using the approach, in which the total daily methane flux is determined by the sum of positive temperatures accumulated in the soil at that time and its moisture content. Required characteristics of the soil were obtained using regional climate model RegCM4. The reanalysis NCEP-DOE AMIP-II (R2) and data of HadGEM2-ES global model for the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 evolution scenario of the global climate system were used to define the initial and boundary conditions. It was found that for Western Siberia’s wetland complexes, analyzed in this paper, the model estimates for methane emission in 2000–2013 vary from ~3.5 to ~5.5 Tg CH₄/yr. The average value of emission is 4.34 TgCH₄/yr. The rate of change of methane emission during this period is almost neutral. Growth of CH₄ emission is observed only in the areas of tundra and forest tundra. Forecast values of methane emission obtained for the period 2021–2050 for scenarios RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 ranges from 3.9 up to 7.6 Tg CH₄/yr. The average emission values are 5.0 and 5.8 Tg CH₄/yr, respectively. Trends of CH₄ emission for this period are also practically neutral.

Potential causes for the stranding of Macrohectopus branickii (Dybowsky, 1874) specimens along the Angara River: strong currents, artificial lighting, or ice melting

Maria A. Maslennikova — 2024-04-06

Macrohectopus branickii (Dybowsky, 1874) is the world's only freshwater pelagic amphipod native to Lake Baikal. The habitat of this amphipod is limited to the pelagic zone of Lake Baikal (with periodic nocturnal migrations to the littoral part of the lake). Until now, this amphipod had never been recorded in the rivers flowing into Lake Baikal or in the Angara River flowing out of it. However, on 16 May 2022, near the Taltsy Museum, 20 km from the source of the Angara River, a massive accumulation of Macrohectopus individuals was washed ashore. The reasons for this phenomenon are still unknown. Considering the uniqueness of M. branickii within the world amphipod fauna and its importance for the Lake Baikal ecosystem, the determination of the factors contributing to this phenomenon is of great importance. In this paper we have presented some hypotheses that could explain the appearance of Macrohectopus on the shores of the Angara River. The first hypothesis is that the amphipods could not cope with the current at the source of the river and were carried down the river, and since they are negatively affected by natural light (at the beginning of the morning), they became trapped and died. The second hypothesis is that the Macrohectopus were attracted and disoriented by the artificial light emanating from the nearby villages, before being carried by the current. The third hypothesis relates to the time frame in which this event was observed. This peculiar phenomenon was observed in mid-May, following the melting of the ice on Lake Baikal. Accordingly, Macrohectopus could have been feeding on the lower surface of the ice, or alternatively they could have been frozen in the ice as the ice floes were transported downstream. Each of the hypotheses we have presented does not necessarily exclude the others, but on the contrary may complement them. In this paper we do not exclude the possibility that there are other explanations for this phenomenon. However, if massive washing ashore of Macrohectopus occurs regularly, further research is needed, taking into account, among other things, the influence of washed ashore individuals on the food spectrum of aquatic organisms and waterfowl of the Angara River.

Viruses in natural populations of wild hop in the south of Western Siberia

Lyubov P. Khlebova — 2024-03-31

Wild hops are abundant in the southern regions of Western Siberia, Russia, where the natural conditions are favorable for growing commercially valuable varieties. The genetic diversity present in wild hop populations serves as a valuable source of beneficial genes for developing new genotypes. However, before harnessing these traits, it's crucial to test the wild hops for the presence of harmful phytopathogenic viruses, which tend to accumulate in natural repositories. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of viral and viroid infections in wild hop populations in the Altai Territory and the Altai Republic. Plant material from wild hops (Humulus lupulus L. 1753) was collected during expeditions from July 15 to August 15 in both 2022 and 2023, covering 18 districts. Using DAS-ELISA and real-time RT-PCR, we assessed 243 samples for the presence of 16 viruses and 1 viroid. The frequency of infected plants varied based on the sampling location and the specific pathogen. Notably, three particularly damaging hop viruses – Hop latent virus (HpLV), Apple mosaic virus (ApMV), and Arabis mosaic virus (ArMV) – were identified, infecting 24.5%, 8.2%, and 5.5% of the studied plants, respectively. HpLV was found throughout the region, primarily in the moderate-arid steppe and forest-steppe, while ApMV was detected in three adjacent districts with a frequency ranging from 11.2% to 45.5%. ArMV was found in half of the plants in a single location. Additionally, minor viruses such as Strawberry latent ringspot (SLRSV), Tobacco necrosis virus (TNV), and Tobacco ringspot virus (TRSV) appeared sporadically in different zones. Potato mosaic viruses S and Y, as well as Potato leafroll virus (PLRV), were widely distributed in wild hop populations, with high frequencies in all natural zones except the foothills. Potato viruses M (PVM), Potato viruses A (PVA), and Potato viruses X (PVX) were common in the steppe and forest-steppe zones. It's important to note that the presence of viral infection in plants did not necessarily correlate with the expression of disease symptoms. Notably, Hop mosaic virus (HpMV), Petunia asteroid mosaic virus (PetAMV), Prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV), and Potato spindle tuber viroid (PSTVd) were not detected. The existence of natural reservoirs of viral infection poses a threat to commercial hop cultivars in areas where they coexist. As such, it is imperative to monitor and control the spread of these dangerous viruses.

New records of Macroheterocera (Insecta, Lepidoptera) on the South of West Siberia. Result of expeditions in 2022–2023

Svyatoslav A. Knyazev — 2024-03-29

This article considers 12 species from the families of Geometridae, Notodontidae, Erebidae, Noctuidae reported from the territory of Omsk and Novosibirsk Regions of Russia. 5 species are new to Omsk Region, among them, Horisme aemulata (Hübner, 1813), Herminia grisealis ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775), Hydraecia osseola (Staudinger, 1882), Euxoa hastifera (Donzel, 1847), Agrotis robusta Eversmann, 1856. 7 species are new to Novosibirsk Region, among them, Limeria macraria Staudinger, 1892, Scopula tessellaria (Boisduval, 1840), Cerura przewalskyi (Alheraky, 1882), Pachetra sagittigera (Hufnagel, 1766), Hadena christophi (Möschler, 1862), Mythimna anderreggii (Boisduval, 1840), Agrotis robusta Eversmann, 1856. The presence of Phaiogramma etruscaria (Zeller, 1849) in Novosibirsk Region confirmed by new materials.

First records of Apatura ilia ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) and Limenitis camilla (Linnaeus, 1764) in West Siberia

Svyatoslav A. Knyazev — 2024-03-28

Two Nymphalidae species – Apatura ilia ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) and Limenitis camilla (Linnaeus, 1764) are reported from the territory of West Siberia for the first time. At this moment we can observe the second wave of expansion of nemoral species of butterflies into Western Siberia from the European part of Russia. The driving factor of the range expansions discussed is no doubt the notorious global warming.

Weevils (Coleoptera, Curculionoidea) of the State National Natural Park "Ulytau" and adjacent territories, Kazakhstan. Report 1.

Izbasar I. Temreshev — 2024-03-28

The results of primary studies of the fauna of weevils (Coleoptera, Curculionoidea) in the "Ulytau" State National Natural Park and in adjacent territories are presented. In total, 54 species, 40 genera and four families of weevil beetles are recorded, including 2 species Anthribidae, 3 species Attelabidae, 10 species Brentidae and 39 species Curculionidae. In the territory of the National park, 53 species of weevils belonging to 41 genera from 4 families (Anthribidae, Attelabidae, Brentidae and Curculionidae) are recorded. For the adjacent territories, 39 species of weevils belonging to 30 genera from 3 families (Anthribidae, Brentidae and Curculionidae) are recorded. Dryophthorus corticalis (Paykull, 1792) is firstly recorded from Kazakhstan. The distribution in Kazakstan of several other species of weevils (Platystomos albinus (Fabricius, 1758), Perapion affine (Kirby, 1808), Allomalia quadrivirgata (Costa, 1863), Eremoxenus chan Semenow-Tian-Schanskij, 1892, Polydrusus piliferus Hochhuth, 1847, Orchestes alni (Linnaeus, 1758), are Orchestes jota Fabricius, 1787) are clarified.

Daily vertical migrations of aquatic organisms and water transparency as indicators of the potential exposure of freshwater lakes to light pollution

Yana K. Ermolaeva — 2024-03-26

Light pollution, which disrupts the vital functions of organisms, including aquatic organisms, has become widespread in recent years. One of the main biological features of aquatic organisms is the presence of daily vertical migrations (DVM). However, as a result of exposure to artificial lighting, organisms become visible to predators. This leads to disruption of the DVM of aquatic organisms and, accordingly, disruption of the functioning of the reservoir ecosystem. Water transparency plays an important role in predators detecting their prey under light pollution. Based on this, it was hypothesized that the susceptibility of freshwater lakes to light pollution may be indicated by both the presence and intensity of DVM of organisms and water transparency. The study was carried out on lakes Baikal, Hovsgol and Ladoga, which differ in water transparency and the intensity of DVM of amphipods. On the lakes at night, samples were taken using a net to determine the composition of organisms located in the water column, and underwater video observations were carried out at two depths using a video system with a lighting source. As a result, the greatest migratory activity of amphipods was observed in Lake Baikal both at a depth of 0.5-1 m and at 3-6.5 m. In Lake Ladoga, migration activity at both depths was equally weak, and in Hovsgol, little activity was observed at a depth of 3-6.5 m. A comparison of sampling data and video observations showed that the studied lakes contain organisms that can either be attracted to or avoid artificial light from the video system. Since Lake Baikal, of the presented lakes, has the highest water transparency and intensity of DVM of organisms, this lake may be the most vulnerable to increasing light pollution, including those associated with the growth of tourist flows.

Modern pollen spectra of the Teletskoye Lake shore: early results

Natalia A. Kuryatnikova — 2024-03-26

The article presents for the first time the results of an analysis of modern pollen spectra of the Teletskoye Lake shore sampled using 12 Tauber traps installed in various characteristic forest and meadow communities. Landscape descriptions have been performed for each sampling point, which increases the reliability of the interpretation of pollen spectra. Spectra are presented as a percentage of pollen from 27 identified taxa with a significant predominance of conifers, which are widespread in the composition of vegetation. Herb pollen is more diverse in the spectra compared to tree pollen but contributes less to their formation. The pollen of early flowering species is not represented in the spectra due to the late dates of trap installation. Based on the analysis, indicator taxa (Betula sect. Betula, Pinus sylvestris, Larix) marking the differentiation of natural conditions in the latitudinal and meridional parts of Lake Teletskoye were revealed mainly according to humidity regime.

New taxa of Plebejus eversmanni (Lang, 1884) and Polyommatus icarus (Rottemburg, 1775) (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae)

Sergei V. Churkin — 2024-03-25

The paper presents the descriptions of four new taxa: Plebejus eversmanni geminus ssp. nova from Tian-Shan (Suusamyr Mts.), P. eversmanni campulus ssp. nova from the East Pamirs, Polyommatus icarus lacuina ssp. nova (Mongolia, Mongolian Altai, Sutai Uul Mt.) and Polyommatus icarus incoronatus ssp. nova (Mongolia, Mongolian Altai, southern slopes, Mogoin-Gol r.).

The Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae) continues to expand its range in Eurasia

Sergey V. Chumakov — 2024-03-17

The article describes the distribution dynamics of the widely spread species Vanessa atalanta (Linnaeus, 1758) (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae), which is for the first time reliably noted for a number of Siberian regions (Krasnoyarsk Territory, the Republic of Khakassia, Kemerovo Territory) and for Tajikistan (Western Pamir, the Bartang river valley).

Additions to the list of Lepidoptera (Insecta, Lepidoptera) of North Kazakhstan

Svyatoslav A. Knyazev — 2024-03-15

The article presents the results of studying the fauna of Lepidoptera in the North Kazakhstan region in the field season of 2023. An annotated check-list includes 162 species from the families Psychidae, Plutellidae, Depressariidae, Autostichidae, Gelechiidae, Pterophoridae, Pyralidae, Crambidae, Tortricidae, Cossidae, Sesiidae, Hesperiidae, Papilionidae, Pieridae, Lycaenidae, Nymphalidae, Satyridae, Drepanidae, Geometridae, Lasiocampidae, Lemoniidae, Endromididae, Sphingidae, Notodontidae, Arctiidae, Erebidae, Noctuidae. 47 species reported from the North Kazakhstan region for the first time.

Biphyllidae (Coleoptera, Cucujoidea) – a new beetle family to the fauna of Kazakhstan

Izbasar I. Temreshev — 2024-01-12

False skin beetle Biphyllus lunatus (Fabricius, 1787) is firstly recorded from Kazakhstan. The finds of B. lunatus from Ulytau Oblast of Central Kazakhstan are currently the easthmost localities for this species and first record for Central Asia. The records of the beetles from family Biphyllidae were absent for Kazakhstan.

Comparative anatomical study of underground and aboveground organs in Ferula tadshikorum Pimenov under natural and introduced environments

Dilovar T. Khamraeva — 2024-01-12

A comparative study was conducted on the anatomical structure of the roots and leaves of Ferula tadshikorum, a rare plant species. The study included two groups: virginile plants introduced at the age of 4 years (located in the Tashkent Botanical Garden) and natural individuals aged 12-14 years (found in the Surkhandarya region, Babatag ridge). The main objective was to understand how the plant's anatomy changes with age and its adaptation to different environments. Common characteristics were identified in the leaves of both groups of plants. These included the isolateral palisade type of mesophyll, a rounded triangular shape around the central vein, and the presence of 2-layer elongated palisade tissue on the flattened lateral parts from the adaxial side. Regarding the root structure, significant differences were observed between the natural and introduced plants. In the natural samples, the woody part of the root exhibited groups of libriform cells, which seemed to be influenced by the edaphotype (soil conditions) and age of the plant. These findings suggest that the conductive system of the roots develops differently depending on the age and environment. The introduction of Ferula tadshikorum in the Tashkent Botanical Garden proved to be successful, as evident from the results. The leaves of the introduced plants showed adaptive characteristics, such as a thickened outer wall of the epidermis, collenchyma strands, bast fibers, and the isolateral palisade type of mesophyll. These adaptations are likely to help the plant cope with its new environment. In the roots of both natural and introduced plants, an important adaptive function was observed. The parenchymal cells were filled with starch grains, and there was an abundance of secretory ducts. This suggests that the root acts as an accumulating organ for organic substances, aiding the plant's survival and growth. In conclusion, the study provided valuable insights into the anatomical changes of Ferula tadshikorum at different stages of its life and in different environments. The observed adaptations in the leaves and roots contribute to the plant's ability to thrive in varying conditions.

Coenotic and biomorphological analysis of Lamiaceae in the West Siberian floristic province

Vera A. Cheryomushkina — 2023-12-31

We analyzed the distribution, coenotic habitat, ecological preferences, and biomorphology of the 80 Lamiaceae species from 30 genera found in the West Siberian province. The plant species are primarily found in boreal and forest-steppe vegetation communities and are equally distributed in both lighted and shaded areas. Most species have a narrow range of humidity preferences. The study also highlights the diversity of life forms, with long-rhizomatous grasses being the most common, and morphological traits such as monocyclic elongated shoots, orthotropic growth direction, terminal arrangement of inflorescences, sympodial development, appearance of replacement axes due to basiton branching, and a long development period of more than three years. The research reveals that the diversity of life forms and biomorphological features of the shoot system play a significant role in determining the distribution of species in different ecological and coenotic conditions within the West Siberian province.

Changes in Middle Ob fish diversity: an analytical review

Elena A. Interesova — 2023-12-29

The Ob River is the largest river in Eurasia, and its ichthyofauna in the Middle Ob consists of species that inhabit not only the entire river but also the upper and lower reaches. This region faces numerous anthropogenic activities that pose a significant threat to aquatic biodiversity. Therefore, changes in fish species diversity in the Middle Ob can serve as an indicator of the overall ecosystem health. This study aims to analyze these changes and their potential causes. Materials and methods: This study presents an analytical review of the Middle Ob River ichthyofauna over the past 120 years. It assesses changes in fish species diversity and discusses various natural and anthropogenic factors. Results: The ichthyofauna of the Middle Ob basin currently includes 38 fish species from 2 classes, 9 orders, 12 families, and 30 genera. Over the past century, the number of species has increased by 27%, with 9 naturalized alien species and 1 extinct species. Additionally, there has been a significant decrease in the abundance of some commercial fish species. The ichthyofauna of the Middle Ob is influenced by hydraulic construction, pollution, overexploitation of aquatic resources (especially commercially valuable fish species), the expansion of alien species, anthropogenic alteration of the river bed, and climate change. Conclusion: While most factors affect the abundance of individual fish species, they do not significantly impact fish species diversity, with the exception of alien species and pollution.

Genetic polymorphism assessment in a new lentil (Lens culinaris Medik., 1787) collection using ISSR markers

Shamsiya E. Mammadova — 2023-12-24

ISSR markers were used in the study of the genetic diversity of 46 imported lentil varieties. The lentil collection had a strikingly high level of polymorphism (76%). The UBC 810 and UBC 809 primers have the highest polymorphism rates among the primers, exceeding 85.7%. The use of nine ISSR markers resulted in 69 pieces, with 76% displaying polymorphism. The computed average genetic diversity index ranged from 0.56 to 0.81, indicating a wide range of genetic variation among lentil genotypes. Accessions were classified into six unique groups as a consequence of cluster analysis. The most divergent genotypes within their respective clusters were identified as Flip 2010-96 and Flip 2011-41, Flip 2011-32 and Flip 2011-97, 10932 and Flip 2011-20, and Flip 2010-81 and Flip 2011-19. These findings bear noteworthy implications for the future of lentil breeding, cultivation, and protection. The observed genetic diversity imparts valuable insights that can be harnessed to fortify lentil crops, fostering resilience and adaptability. The identified distant genotypes present promising avenues for targeted breeding initiatives, facilitating the development of lentil varieties harboring diverse and desirable traits. In summation, this study contributes pivotal information to the scientific community, establishing a framework for subsequent research and progress in the improvement of lentil crops.

Aegilops tauschii Coss. molecular phylogeny in comparison with proteins electrophoretic polymorphism

Alexander J. Dudnikov — 2023-12-20

In the case of Aegilops tauschii the comparison of intraspecies molecular phylogeny based on DNA sequences of nuclear gene Got2 with electrophoretic polymorphism of allozymes and hystone H1 proteins is actually a comparison of the one detailed phylogenetic tree with a set of low resolution trees. It could help to understand peculiarities of the species evolutionary history and role of cross-pollination in it. Proteins polymorphism patterns rather satisfactory corresponded to Got2 DNA tree. Electrophoretic polymorphism of essentially polymorphic in Ae. tauschii subsp. strangulata protein encoding loci considered (Ak, Est2, Got1, Got3, Hst2, Hst3) and essentially polymorphic in Ae. tauschii subsp. tauschii locus Fdp displayed correspondence with the molecular phylogenetic tree: each allele was common or predominant on some branches of the tree and rare or absent on the other. In contrast, alleles of Cat2 locus, Cat2³⁵ and Cat2¹⁴⁰, were “scattered” sporadically through Ae. tauschii subsp. tauschii branches on phylogenetic tree. Also in Ae. tauschii subsp. tauschii a set of different extremely rare allozyme alleles, Acph4¹¹³, Aco2¹¹⁰, Mdh1¹¹³, Nadhd1⁸⁸, was found among three out of four accessions belonging to one of the relict clades of this subspecies on the molecular phylogenetic tree. The data obtained displayed that subsp. tauschii, now being relatively less polymorphic than subsp. strangulata, in ancient times had good opportunities for genetic exchange between its different phylogenetic lineages, all but one of which are relicts in present time. And the patterns of Hst3⁹⁷⁷ allele occurrences indicated cross-pollination between subsp. tauschii and subsp. strangulata.

Ecological and geographical studies of Poa versicolor (Poaceae) aggregate in Asian Russia and adjacent territories

Marina V. Olonova — 2023-12-13

Aggregate Pоа versicolor (Poaceae) contains closely related xeromorphic species distributed mainly in temperate regions of Asia. The most common species are P. transbaicalica, P. relaxa, P. ochotensis, P. botryoides and P. argunensis. They play an important role in the structure of steppe communities, but this aggregate is known to be difficult for the systematics. The previous research of morphological diversity and distribution confirmed morphological and geographical diversification within the aggregate, however, their ecological-climatic niches were not studied. The goal of this study was to reveal whether the species of the P. versicolor aggregate occupied the equivalent or similar niches, or the morphological diversification was accompanied by niche change. Equivalence and similarity tests were used. A comparative study of the ecological-climatic niches showed that the niches only of the most similar pairs P. transbaicalica – P. botryoides, and P. argunensis – P. botryoides were identical or equivalent. All other pairs of species were not identical and confirmed the expected diversification, revealed by previous morphological and geographic analysis. Nevertheless, the studies using the background test, which takes into account environmental features, has revealed niche conservatism at the aggregate level. The ecological-climatic niches of five species within the P. versicolor aggregate proved to be similar, but not equivalent in all species. Thus, our data show that partial or complete geographic divergence and morphological diversification of species is not accompanied by diversification of their ecological niches.

Anthropogenic impacts on Ajinohur arid forests of Azerbaijan

Adama Togola — 2023-12-10

Degradation of forest resources and deforestation, insufficient satisfaction of society's needs and demands for environmental, social and economic goods and services, insufficient participation of stakeholders and cross-sector collaboration in forestry practices are the main challenges of forest management in Azerbaijan. One of the main factors influencing and changing arid ecosystems is human economic activity. Ajinohur arid forests are located in the southern part of the Ajinohur foothills of Azerbaijan between the Alijanchay and Goychay rivers. The total area of the Ajinohur foothills is 152544.53 ha, where arid forests are 9379.61 ha (6.14%), and lowland forests are 5182.14 ha (3.4%), mainly mountain-steppe landscape prevails here (81.6%). The arid forests of the Ajinohur foothills are intensively used for agriculture, and therefore, are subject to strong anthropogenic impact. In this regard, in 2021–2022, we conducted research on the study of the current ecological state of arid forests, compiled maps using GIS technologies. It was established that, according to the degree of anthropogenic impact and the level of transformation, the landscapes of the Ajinohur arid forests are divided into the following groups: unaltered (7.2% of the total area), slightly modified (83.34%) and intensively modified (9.42%) landscapes. The ecological state of lowland forests is more unsatisfied compared to dry woodlands, where landscapes with a critical ecological state account for 57.31%.

Review of Semagystia monticola species group (Lepidoptera, Cossidae: Cossinae) with description of four new species from Central Asia

Roman V. Yakovlev — 2023-12-08

The article gives a revision of the Semagystia monticola (Groum-Grshimaïlo, 1890) species group (Lepidoptera, Cossidae, Cossinae). The group comprises nine valid species. Detailed data on the distribution of all the species are provided. Four new species from Central Asia are described: S. churkini Yakovlev & Shapoval, sp. n. (Type locality: Kyrgyzstan, Moldo-Too Range, Kichine-Kindyk River), S. fomichevi Yakovlev & Shapoval, sp. n. (Type locality: Tajikistan, Eastern Pamir Mts., Zulumart [Palangguzar] Mt. Rg.), S. toropovi Yakovlev & Shapoval, sp. n. (Type locality: Kirgizia, Tschatkal Mt., Sary-Chelek lake), and S. uvaydo Yakovlev & Shapoval, sp. n. (Type locality: Tajikistan, Darvaz Mts., Khozratishoh Range, Khaburobot pass). The article is illustrated with imagoes of specimens from different localities and male genitalia of all new species.

Identification of fertility zones and assessment of potential crop yield based on biological farming approaches

Natalia V. Ovcharova — 2023-12-06

The biopotential productivity of agricultural land, along with the preservation of the biological diversity of adjacent landscapes through the development and implementation of high-tech agricultural technologies, is of critical concern in the current climatic changes and urbanization. The article reports the results of an integrated approach to the development of task maps for differentiated seeding and mineral fertilization using various tillage techniques (conventional subsurface tillage and no-till) in the experimental fields of two farms in the Altai Krai. The farms are located in the Aleiskaya soil and climate zone. The soils in the experimental fields showed a very low nitrate nitrogen content, which did not exceed 3.0 mg/kg of soil in the upper (0–10 cm) layer and 2.7 mg/kg of soil in the 10–20 cm layer. We revealed that one of the main indicators that affects soil fertility is the spatial differentiation of the humus content of humus and the main nutrients. Soil moisture was found to vary at different soil depths (11.4–25.3%), indicating a significant effect of soil fertility grades and autumn tillage techniques on moisture accumulation and distribution at different soil depths in spring, and consequently on the vegetation soil moisture regime and crop yield.

To the fauna of Geophilomorpha (Chilopoda) of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan

Yurii V. Dyachkov — 2023-12-03

Genus Stenotaenia C.L. Koch, 1847 is new to the fauna of the Middle Asia. The following taxa are new to the fauna of Turkmenistan: family Mecistocephalidae, genus Krateraspis Lignau, 1929, K. meinerti (Sseliwanoff, 1881), and genus Stenotaenia C.L. Koch, 1847. Genus Geophilus Leach, 1814 and G. lindbergi (Loksa, 1971) are new to Uzbekistan. All new records are illustrated. An updated list of the chilopod species dwelling in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan is provided.

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

Yuriy A. Gulyanov — 2023-11-30

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

Sergey Yu. Sinev — 2023-11-30

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

Tatyana A. Sherbakova — 2023-11-26

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

Natalia I. Kirichenko — 2023-11-25

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 — 2023-11-23

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 — 2023-11-22

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)

Marina Yu. Solomonova — 2023-11-13

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 — 2023-11-12

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 — 2023-11-09

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 — 2023-11-09

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 — 2023-11-09

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 — 2023-11-08

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

Snezhana V. Zhilich — 2023-11-07

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 — 2023-11-05

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 — 2023-11-04

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

Ekaterina M. Luchnikova — 2023-10-28

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 — 2023-10-27

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 — 2023-10-12

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

Gavkhar Mardanova — 2023-10-10

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

Sergey L. Luzyanin — 2023-10-06

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 — 2023-09-27

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)

Мarina Usoltseva — 2023-09-26

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 — 2023-09-24

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)

Maksim R. Parkhomenko — 2023-09-23

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

Nazar A. Shapoval — 2023-09-20

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 — 2023-09-13

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 — 2023-09-10

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)

Mark Lee — 2023-09-08

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 — 2023-09-07

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 — 2023-09-04

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 — 2023-09-04

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 — 2023-09-03

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 — 2023-08-31

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 — 2023-08-31

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

Tatiana D. Kochetkova — 2023-08-12

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

Evgeny A. Davydov — 2023-08-11

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

Viktor A. Nikitkin — 2023-08-10

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 — 2023-08-10

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 — 2023-07-31

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

Dilshod M. Musaev — 2023-07-05

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 — 2023-05-14

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 — 2023-05-14

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 — 2023-05-10

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 — 2023-05-06

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 — 2023-05-05

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

Nikita S. Babichev — 2023-05-03

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)

Sergey V. Loiko — 2023-05-02

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 — 2023-05-01

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 — 2023-04-29

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)

Evgeny A. Davydov — 2023-04-28

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 — 2023-04-27

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 — 2023-04-24

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 — 2023-04-19

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 — 2023-04-15

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 — 2023-04-15

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 — 2023-03-22

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 — 2023-03-21

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 — 2023-03-14

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 — 2023-03-14

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 — 2023-02-24

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 — 2023-02-19

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 — 2023-02-12

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”

Nadezhda I. Yermolaeva — 2023-02-10

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

Alexander S. Revushkin — 2023-01-31

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

Ekaterina P. Anokhina — 2023-01-30

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 — 2023-01-27

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)

Alexander Dunets — 2022-12-31

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 — 2022-12-30

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 — 2022-12-30

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 — 2022-12-30

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 — 2022-12-30

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 — 2022-12-30

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 — 2022-12-23

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)

Sergei V. Vazhov — 2022-12-22

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.