bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Landscape basis for the formation of phenological network in steppe provinces of the Urals
Authors: Guryevskikh O Yu , Yantser O V , Yurovskikh A M 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The article describes the formation of a regional phenological network that can be used as a basis for landscape-dynamic studies of the steppe natural complexes of the Urals. The functional-dynamic approach was used as a methodological basis of the study. The phenological network was reviewed within a period since 1925 till recent times. We performed a landscape structure analysis and determined the hierarchical levels of natural complexes specific for the territory that serve as geographical markers of the regional phenological network. Analyzing long-term archive data collected by the Russian Geographical Society and the Ural Reserves Chronicles of the nature data in the 20-21th centuries, we uncovered some negative trends in the onset of spring-summer phenomena in the steppe provinces of the Urals. In addition, we present several key criteria, that should be used to determine how geographically representative a phenological network is, such as: typicalness, landscape diversity, anthropogenic differentiation. The structural and spatial analysis of the phenological network of the steppe landscape provinces of the Southern Urals allowed revealing its peculiarities, such as its branched structure, irregularity, and its inconsistency with the landscape diversity of the region. Quantitative analysis and modeling of the phenological network allow developing recommendations for its expansion. A scientifically profound phenological network will optimize dynamic monitoring of the steppe natural complexes of the Urals and collecting data that is crucial for the long-term sustainable development of the region.
Comparative study on the fauna composition of dragonflies (Insecta: Odonata) in the Armenian, Iranian and Asia Minor Highlands as part of the Asiatic Mediterranean (Mediterranean faunal subregion, Paleosubtropical region, Boreal kingdom
Authors: Ketenchiev Kh A , Kozminov S G , Paritov A Yu , Sabanova R K , Krapivina E A 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The paper presents the results of a comparative analysis of the taxonomic composition of the dragonfly faunas in the Armenian, Iranian and Asia Minor Highlands. Among all the regional faunas of the Mediterranean, the odonatofauna of the Iranian and Asia Minor highlands is the richest, with 97 species each. The odonatofauna of the Armenian Highlands includes 77 species. A specific feature of the Asia Minor odonatofauna is the richness of rheophilic species. Among the representatives of the rheophilic fauna, the Gomphidae family in the Iranian Highlands includes 12 species, the genus Anormogomphus includes 1 species – A. kiritschenkoi Bartenef. There are 7 species in the Gomphidae family in the Armenian Highlands, and 10 species in the Asia Minor Highlands. In the suborder Zygoptera in the Iranian Highlands, the largest family is Coenagrionidae, in which the genus Ischnura is the richest in species. Specific species characteristic of the compared highlands are given. The odonatofaunas of the uplands contain European and Eurasian boreal as well as endemic taxa, which gives the dragonfly fauna a distinctive appearance. Analysis of the odonatofauna of the Asia Minor Highlands shows its eclecticity and species richness. Unlike the dragonfly fauna of the Armenian Highlands, the presence of European species is noticeable in the fauna of the Asia Minor.
Diversity of steppe soils of Transbaikalia (exemplified by the Daurskii Reserve)
Authors: Khadeeva E R , Lopatovskaya O G , Saraeva L I , Tkachuk T E 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The paper presents the study of soil cover of the steppe areas on the territory of the Daursky Biosphere Reserve in the Transbaikal Territory. Natural factors of soil formation are as follows: poorly dissected relief; arid and cryarid climate; shallow ground waters; steppe vegetation with a predominance of halophytes. The carbonate and salinity of the parent rocks contribute to the formation of various types of soils. We determined the types of soils in the study area according to the modern classification: Chestnut typical and saline, Saline gleyed typical and sulfide (sor) typical. Typical chestnut soils are formed on the tops of lake terraces and form complexes with saline soils. Salted chestnut soils occupy transit landforms. Saline soils are confined to low relief forms, the shoreline to the bottom of the lake, where the accumulation of readily soluble salts occurs. Typical Chestnut and saline soils are characterized by a light granulometric composition and a low humus content. Salted chestnut soils contain high concentrations of readily soluble salts in the profile. Saline (sulphide) and typical gleyed have a heavier granulometric composition, a highly alkaline reaction of the medium, a very low humus content and a high content of readily soluble salts. Physicochemical properties of soils reflect their genesis and the current state of these soils.
Helminthological monitoring of introduced animals in the Steppe Research Station “Orenburg Tarpania”
Authors: Khristianovsky P I , Grudinin D A , Belimenko V V , Platonov S A , Maltsev S S 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
At the Steppe Research Station “Orenburg Tarpania” of the Institute of Steppe of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (Orenburg region, Russia), we carried out work to study acclimatization of large ungulates of inhabiting arid ecosystems to the natural conditions of the South Ural steppe sub-region. The “Orenburg Tarpania” contains introduced animal species: Przewalski’s horse, kiangs, two-humped camels, domestic yaks and an indigenous breed of downy goats. The goal of the project is to return large phytophages to their natural steppe habitat. To prevent an increase in the infection of new populations with helminths to a clinically significant level and to study the adaptation to the existing territorial helminth-faunal complex, we monitor helminth infections of animals kept in the station and in the adjacent areas. Our survey revealed parasitism of nematodes of the suborder Strongylata (families Strongylidae and Trichonematidae) and the suborder Asagidata (Ragassagis equorum) was revealed in ungulates. Parasitism of nematodes of the suborder Strongylata (genera Chabertia and Nematodirus), and protozoa of the genus Eimegia, was detected in ruminants in the Steppe Research Station. The invasion intensity in all cases ranged from low to medium, with no clinical signs. Further studies are planned to determine the degree of biological equilibrium formation in the helminth-host system of the model plot.
Paeonia hybrida Pall. as a Rare and Endangered Species of Steppe Communities in Kulunda: Biology, Ecology, Cenotic Characteristics
Authors: Kornyevskaya T V , Ovcharova N V , Silantyeva M M 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Paeonia hybrida Pall. is a highly localized species, spread on the Priobskoye plateau, foothills and low-mountains of Altai, in the northeastern and eastern parts of Kazakhstan. The aim of the study was to study cenopopulations and features of phytocenoses with the participation of P. hybrida in Kulunda and on the Priobskoye plateau. The characterization of the communities is based on 13 complete geobotanical descriptions carried out on 100 m2 test plots in Volchikhinsky, Mikhailovsky and Topchikhinsky districts. When identifying vegetation syntaxa, we used the interpretation of E.M. Lavrenko. Taxonomic, ecological, chorological and analysis of life forms was performed according to I.G. Serebryakov and K. Raunkier. The ontogenetic periods of P. hybrida were studied by the method of T.A. Rabotnov taking into account the indices of age states by A.A. Uranova. In the period of 2013 – 2020 the authors identified 13 P. hybrida cenopopulations in two classes of formations – meadow and true steppes. The share of P. hybrida in the herbage was 5 – 15%. More often the species is found in shrub communities of meadow and true steppes. In the dry-steppe zone of Kulunda, P. hybrida has preserved in the flat areas between dividing ridges, on gentle ridges, slopes of gullies, coarse slopes and along the deltas of ancient runoff hollows. The characteristic features of the habitats make it possible to classify the steppe peony as a mesoxerophyte. The ontogenesis of P. hybrida is characterized by latent, virginile, and generative periods.
The effect of temperature fields on soil and plant cover formation in arid ecosystems of the Uvs Nuur basin
Authors: Kudryashova S Y , Chumbaev A S , Mironycheva-Tokareva N P , Kurbatskaya S S 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Introduction of remote and automated methods into the practice of soil and ecological studies urges for development of the methodological basis for combined analyses of surface and satellite data. The aim of the study was to explore the possibility to identify and typologise the structural and functional borders of soil cover using temperature fields, obtained by combined analysis of the temperature time series obtained by field and remote temperature monitoring. The functional relationships that are expressed within geosystems as the flux of energy and matter are reflected in soil temperature regimes, hydrophysical soil properties and plant cover biological productivity, which were studied in the arid ecosystems of the Uvs Nuur depression in Tuva, Russia. The quantitative characteristic of the temperature fields of the psammophytic soils were obtained, and the effect of hydrothermal conditions and soil hydrophysical properties on above- and belowground phytomass stocks of the sand massif Zuger-Els revealed and discussed.
Forecast of climate change impact on habitat suitability of Linaria uralensis Kotov (Scrophulariaceae) in the Southern Urals
Authors: Kutueva A G , Fedorov N I , Muldashev A A , Fedorova Y A , Naumova L G 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Rare plant species are the most vulnerable components of vegetation cover under climate change. The aim of this paper was to model the influence of climatic changes on the habitat suitability for Linaria uralensis Kotov in the Southern Urals. The MaxEnt program was used for modeling. Climate variables from CHELSA BIOCLIM and topographic variables of the digital elevation model were used as predictors. An ensemble of four future climate models under the RCP4.5 (moderate) and RCP8.5 (high) climate change scenarios was used to estimate potential changes in habitat suitability in the middle and second half of the 21st century. The modeling results showed that the species L. uralensis has a fairly high drought tolerance. The habitat conditions of this species will potentially be preserved in the area of its current distribution. Under moderate and high climate change some increase in the areas of high and medium habitat suitability is expected. Thus, it can be predicted that existing protection measures for this species will be sufficient, and there will be no need for additional conservation measures.
Analysis of the spread of arachnoentomosis pathogens as an environmental risk in the implementation of acclimatization programs for large phytophages in the steppe biome (a case study of steppe research station “Orenburg Tarpania”)
Authors: Kuzmina E N , Grudinin D A 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
In this report. we compiled a species composition database relating to arachnoentomosis pathogens in animals living in the Orenburg region and potentially dangerous for the implementation of projects for the conservation movement of large phytophages. Horseflies (family Tabanidae) are represented by two subfamilies, seven genera and twenty-eight species of blood-sucking insects. Gadflies are represented by three families (Hypodermatidae, Gastrophilidae, and Oestridae), six genera, and twelve species. Parasitic mites of the order Acariformes are represented by three families (families Sarcoptidae, Psoroptidae and Demodecidae), four genera, and eight species. Based on our own studies, it was found that gadflies, in particular Gastrophilus intestinalis, represent the greatest danger among the pathogens of arachnoentomosis to animals kept in the Steppe Research Station “Orenburg Tarpania” managed by the Steppe Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences-Urals Branch (Przhevalsky horses, kiangs, two-humped camels, yaks, downy goats). Wool samples, skin scrapings and scarificat taken for microscopy from the premises for keeping animals kept both in the station and in private farmsteads revealed no sarcoproid mites.
Phytoecological mapping of the North-West Pre-Caspian area
Authors: Lazareva V G , Bananova V A , Dung Nguyen Van 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The aim of the research is to identify the patterns of spatial distribution of the vegetation in the North-West Pre-Caspian area and to develop its cartographic model. The work is based on long-term material (1983-2016). Geobotanical and cartographic studies have been carried out in accordance with generally accepted methods. Observations were conducted on three quaternary terraces using key sections (test sites) and environmental-dynamic profiling. The field material has been processed by the GIS program Mapinfo 6.0, the space images were decrypted with the help of ArcGIS 9.3. In total, about 1,600 geobotanical descriptions were provided. The cartographic vegetation model of the North-West Pre-Caspian area is based on the area-type principle. It reflects zonal and subzonal subdivision, the edaphic variations. This cartographic model of indigenous vegetation allowed: 1. to reflect its horizontal structure; 2. to confirm the southern zonal boundary between steppes and deserts (still disputed) identified by I.N. Safronova. Basing on the field studies results, the patterns of vegetation formation in the region have been identified and its spatial distribution, and the succession direction within the north-western part of the Caspian Sea region.
Climatic changes and water management in the Ural River basin and their impact on the river water regime
Authors: Magritsky Dmitry , Kenzhebaeva Ayimgul , Yumina Natalya , Efimova Lyudmila , Moreido Vsevolod 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The Ural River basin is a transboundary object, which is characterized by a very uneven distribution of water resources, an extensive arid areas and water-intensive socio-economic complex. There are about 3,130 reservoirs and ponds, which are evaporating 0.9 km3/yr. and carry out intra-annual regulation. Water intake peaked in the 1980s. Now the anthropogenic decrease in runoff is < 1.6 km3/yr. Climate warming has begun in 1977-1980 and has intensified since the mid-1990s, as well has the occurrence of thaws in winter. In the first half of the current period, annual, summer-autumn, and winter precipitation was higher than the average long-term values. In the second half, spring and winter precipitation increased, while total precipitation decreased due to decrease in summer-autumn precipitation. As a result, the modern water regime of rivers has clearly changed and not in all cases positively. This initiated an inter-State discussion on the efficient use of water resources. Therefore, the goal and objectives of the research were not only to assess the characteristics of the runoff, trends of their changes, but also to determine the role of climatic and anthropogenic factors and the patterns of their long-term behavior. An analysis of data at 56 gauges, 10 meteorological stations, and on water use shows that after 1977 the runoff exceeded by an average of 10-20%. 1985-1995 and 2000-2007 were high-water sub-periods. Since 2006/2008, the prolonged water shortage has been registered. The decrease in the precipitation and the increase in evaporation are the main reasons for its formation. The regulation of the Ural runoff and warming have led to an earlier commencement and ending of floods in the lower reaches, a decrease in its volume and maximum water discharges, and the inundation risk reduction. Low-water runoff has increased significantly. This is illustrated by the new data.
Ecological status estimation for the Kalaus river in the Stavropolskii region
Authors: Markin V N , Glazunova I V , Markova E N 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The Kalausis the river in the Stavropolskii region of Russia being an important source of water. Water use has caused water decrease, water depletion and water deterioration. Therefore water shortages exceed natural river flow by 100%. The water quality category is estimated as “very dirty”. The main source of river water pollution is diffuse runoff from agricultural lands. Estimationson both the environmental river flow and the efficiency of water protection measures are given in this paper. It considers the impact of the lands on the flow volume and quality of the river water, and also estimates the impact of global climate change on water scarcity. To improve the ecological status of the river up to “satisfactory” it is necessary to save the volume of environmentally friendly flow without its with drawing. To improve the water quality up to “moderately polluted” it is necessary integrated water protection measures.
Conservation and Restoration Prospects of Semi-Natural Plant Communities when Creating Parks in the Southern Russia’s Steppe (a Case Study of the 70th Anniversary of Victory Park)
Authors: Matetskaya A Yu , Karasyova T A , Popova N N , Levada A M , Kozyrev D A , Gorbov S N 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Preserving the least transformed vegetation cover plots and using them as park zones when expanding urban development areas is one of the most promising areas of urban planning. There is very little experience in creating such parks in steppe regions. This study is the basis for the development project of the first park of this type in the Rostov Region. The goal of the study is to analyze the vegetation cover in the 70thAnniversary of Victory Park to identify valuable plant communities with a high preservation and to include them subsequently in to the Park’s landscape project. For this purpose, we carried out a detailed zoning of the vegetation in the territory, revealed its relationship with the soil cover, the terrain, and the anthropogenic pressure. To collect and process data, we used generally accepted methods of botanical research. We carried out a comparative analysis of the systematic, ecological, and phytocoenotic spectra of the associations identified. In the territory of one land unit, we found coenopopulations of two protected species: Bellevalia sarmatica and Iris pumila. A low wild-grass overgrowing and a relative high abundance of steppe grasses and herbs in some areas of species suggest a likely prospect for the territory to become virgin over the next 10 to 15 years. Based on the results of our study, we have identified areas which, if preserved and maintained, will allow to create close-to-steppe vegetation zones in the Park.
Large-scale modern climate change and reactions of steppe birds of Inner Asia
Authors: Mel’nikov Yu 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
On the basis of many years of work by ornithologists covering the entire second half of the past and the beginning of the current century, the features of the dynamics of the bird fauna of Inner Asia as a result of climate warming are considered. The central position of Eastern Siberia caused its stronger warming, which makes it possible to consider in detail various aspects of this process. Severe droughts, followed by long dry periods, observed in the arid regions of Central Asia in the second half of the 20th century, caused massive migrations of birds to the north. Strong changes in habitats were found in birds using intrazonal wetlands ecosystems for nesting. Native steppe and desert birds inhabited areas within their natural zone. They are characterized by occasional flights to the northern boundaries of their ranges towards the end of the second half of the study period. As a result of mass evictions, the diversity of birds in Eastern Siberia increased by 22.6% (110 species), but their abundance remained almost at the initial level. At present, the number of coastal birds in the south of Eastern Siberia, as well as in Central Asia, has greatly decreased, as a result of a shift in the optimum range to the north.
Steppe felt accumulation in Leymus chinensis communities of eastern Transbaikalia and transformation of its chemical composition
Authors: Merkusheva M G , Boloneva L.N. , Lavrentieva I N , Badmaeva N K 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The study objective is to determine stocks and chemical composition of died phytomass and felt in Leymus coenoses in southeastern Transbaikalia. Using standard field geobotanical tools, the authors have determined macroelement composition by generally accepted techniques, calculated indicators of litter-fall index (LFI), C/N, C/P, C:N:S:P, Ca/K ratios. Statistical data processing has been carried out in Microsoft Excel. At present, the felt stock is 54 – 107 g/m2. Died phytomass content depends on the species composition in the coenoses, soil and environmental conditions of their growth, and the grazing load degree. The coefficient of correlation between died phytomass and felt content shows moderate value. The steppe litter-fall index indicates a low rate of felt decomposition. The felt chemical composition is defined by soil and environmental conditions (supply of nutrients and moisture). For the first time study has revealed that died phytomass and felt are highly resistant to decomposition and mineralization according to C/N, C/P, C:N:S:P and Ca/K ratio values in the aboveground phytomass of coenoses. However, the resistance can be adjusted once the species composition, climatic (drought, heavy rainfall) and anthropogenic conditions (spring burnings and steppe fires) change.
Underground waters of salt-dome basins: a case study of the Caspian depression and its nothern surroundings (Volga-Ural Anteclise and Pre-ural foredeep)
Authors: Myazina N G 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The area under study is located in the place where the Caspian Depression joins the Pre-Ural Foredeep and the Volga-Ural Anteclise and where the salt-dome and salt-gypsum tectonics is manifested. The development of salt-gypsum tectonics is a specific feature of the Pre-Ural Foredeep from the viewpoint of tectonics. The modern relief of the Caspian Depression was developed in the Quaternary Period. Its development was accompanied by repeated transgressions of the sea. There are many springs with potable water that are suitable for drinking in the northern part of the Caspian Depression and in the southern part of the Volga-Ural Anteclise and the Pre-Ural Foredeep. There are springs with mineral water and springs that can be used for balneotherapy. Springs with potable water of good quality with mineralization 0.3-0.7 g/dm are revealed in the zone of active water exchange3. Sulphate, sulphate-chloride groups of mineral waters without “specific” components and properties with mineralization 1.7-2.7 g/dm are revealed in the zone of slow water exchange 1.7-2.7 g/dm3. The class of sulphate-chloride waters is widely represented in the territory under study, there are mineral waters drained by springs with mineralization 1.9-4.9 g/dm3. The springs are close analogues of Krainka, Kazanian, Kashin, Khilovo and Chartak types of mineral potable waters. Springs with chloride sodium waters of leaching zones that can be used for balneotherapy with mineralization from 14.5 to 192.3 g/dm3 are linked to salt dome structures. Elton salt-dome structure of the western Caspian Depression is rich in hydromineral resources-mineral springs, rivers, brine of the lake Elton with bromine and sulphurous waters.