Paradynamic landscape system of the azov sea region as a form of landscape space organization
Authors: Vorovka V. 
Published: December 2016

One of the forms of landscape space organization, a paradynamic landscape system, is considered by the example of the Azov Sea coast. It is based on the idea of the existence of a specific type of landscape systems formed on the border of contrast environments. In this case – on the border of land and water (coastal zone), in other cases – on the border between mountains and plains, highlands and lowlands, forest and deforested landscapes, etc. The existence of such systems is grounded on the functional principle and strength of contrast-based interrelations. As opposed to the traditional landscape science, paradynamic systems are formed on the basis of interacting types of environments, distinct in their properties. In the study area, they are represented by the patches of land and sea bottom adjacent to the shoreline. The functioning of such a system depends not only on the interactions between natural but also on those between man-made landscapes of adjacent land and marine areas and their various modifications.
The publication describes the rationale for distinguishing the borders of the paradynamic landscape system. Such a border between land and sea bottom is represented by the line, to which extends the land impact on the sea and that of the marine environment on the coastal land. For the Ukrainian part of the Azov Sea coast these borders are distinguished as follows: on land it is a line of the watershed and climatic influence of the sea, in marine waters it is an isobath, to which extends the effect of waves on the treatment and redeposition of sediments.
The structure shaping links in the Azov Sea paradynamic landscape system are defined. The main land impacts on the sea are referred to the river runoff, coastal processes, and human activities. The sea effects on the land are classified as the climate impact, breeze circulation, and migration of living organisms. Specific examples of various links in the system are given.
An essential role in the functioning of these systems is played by human actions, which primarily manifests themselves in such coastal activities as fishing, marine transport, recreation and tourism, aquaculture. For the effective management of the shoreline, the borders of paradynamic coastal systems and their system-forming factors should be taken into consideration.
A detailed knowledge of the functioning of the Azov paradynamic landscape system is the basis for the integrated management of the coastal zone of the Sea of Azov. The latter, in addition to economic and social matters, requires a deep understanding of specific properties of the coastal environment. We cannot apply here a unified approach, since each coastal zone is characterized by its own unique conditions of the formation, development, and its own resource base thus requiring individual solutions and approaches to its integrated management. Basing on the long-term scientific data, this will enable the implementation of a comprehensive, well-planned and sustainable use of resources, functions and services of coastal zones. As a result, the maximum environmental and socio-economic efficiency of using the area can be reached. The knowledge of the intensity of coastal erosion and accumulation, characteristics of wind and hydrological regimes, characteristics of pollution and migration of contaminants etc. will assist in making adequate management decisions and preventing many unexpected problems in the future.