Естественные науки. Рубрика в журнале - Бюллетень науки и практики
A Taxonomic Revision of Selected Carex L. Species (Cyperaceae Juss.) within the Flora of Azerbaijan
Статья научная
As part of the 2025 research program dedicated to preparing a new edition of the multi-volume "Flora of Azerbaijan", species of the genus Carex L. (Cyperaceae Juss.) were investigated. Globally, the family Cyperaceae Juss. comprises 105 genera and approximately 5,000 species, 17 of which occur within the flora of Azerbaijan. The present study provides a comprehensive taxonomic revision of Carex based on both field investigations conducted throughout Azerbaijan and the examination of herbarium samples preserved in the Herbarium of the Institute of Botany of the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Бесплатно
Статья научная
In the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, Hyalomma detritum adults are characterized by a single peak of activity. This activity coincides with the presence of adult ticks in lowland and foothill areas from the first ten days of May until the end of August. Adult Hyalomma detritum disappear in September. Larvae and nymphs emerge by the end of August and September. Both previously active individuals and newly molted individuals overwinter. Ticks that became active before hibernation expend a significant portion of their nutrient reserves. Some differences in the physiological age of males and females emerging from hibernation are observed. Males were found to be more emaciated than females. Differences in the physiological age of ticks within the same active season in different years are greater than those between different seasons within the same year.
Бесплатно
Статья научная
The feasibility and sustainability of integrating photovoltaic (PV) systems with water treatment processes on the Absheron Peninsula is examined through the combined use of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and water balance modeling. Results indicate that the water balance of Lake Khojasan remains stable throughout the year, with a net balance of approximately 0 m³/month, while the required treatment volume is consistently 160,000 m³/month, representing 5% of the total lake volume of 3,200,000 m³. The solar resource assessment reveals clear seasonal variability, with the expected daily energy production ranging from 4.66 kWh/day per kWp in summer (June) to 1.04 kWh/day per kWp in winter (December). These values indicate sufficient potential for solar energy to support system operation year-round when complemented with energy storage solutions. The AHP analysis results show that the most influential parameters determining the solar energy potential are precipitation (0.3362) and global horizontal irradiance (GHI) (0.2218), followed by temperature (0.1540) and opacity index (0.1063). The low consistency coefficient (CR = 0.027) confirms the robustness and stability of the proposed decision-making system. In terms of practical application, the system design demonstrates that three PV panels (550 W each) are sufficient to meet the operational energy needs of supplying 30 tons of reclaimed water per day to irrigate 2 hectares of plantation. Overall, the study provides a robust and practically applicable framework for integrating renewable energy into water resource management systems. Future research should focus on economic optimization, long-term performance assessment, and hybrid integration of renewable energy to further enhance the sustainability and scalability of the system.
Бесплатно
Assessment of the Current Sanitary and Technical Condition of Irrigation Reservoirs in Azerbaijan
Статья научная
The article presents a comprehensive assessment of the current sanitary and technical condition of irrigation reservoirs in Azerbaijan, analyzing the operational characteristics of hydraulic structures, the level of technical deterioration, and the primary risk factors affecting their safe operation. The study aims to determine the condition of reservoirs vital to irrigation systems, identify factors influencing operational reliability, and evaluate the applicability of modern monitoring and management approaches. The research utilizes comparative analysis, a systems approach, statistical assessment methods, hydro-technical observation data, regulatory documentation, and geographic information systems (GIS) combined with remote sensing. Particular attention is given to dam stability, the structural integrity of hydraulic facilities, sediment accumulation, seepage, deformation processes, and key sanitary water quality indicators. Results indicate that prolonged operation, structural wear, sedimentation, and insufficient monitoring contribute to declining safety and efficiency. Conversely, the implementation of digital monitoring, GIS-based analytical tools, and automated systems is essential for improving reliability and sustainability. The scientific novelty lies in the integrated assessment of these reservoirs using contemporary technological frameworks.
Бесплатно
Статья научная
Provides information on the bioecological characteristics and modern status of species belonging to the Sylvidae family distributed in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. It was found from the research that 11 species belonging to 4 genera of the Sylviade family are found in Nakhchivan, all of which come to this area to breed and migrate in the fall after breeding. One of the main issues raised during the research was the study of the modern status of the Sylvidae. As in the whole world, the negative effects of anthropogenic factors in Nakhchivan have worsened the feeding and nesting conditions of these birds, leading to a significant decrease in their number dynamics.
Бесплатно
Autecology of species belonging to the Falco family spreading in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic
Статья научная
The article provides information on the autecology of species belonging to the Falco genus spreading in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. From the conducted research, it was found that 7 species of the genus Falconidae of the Falco family are found. Also, from the research it is clear that 2 species of birds belonging to the Falco genus are wintering, 1 species is migratory, 3 species are nesting, and 1 species is sedentary.
Бесплатно
Biodiversity and Ecology of Lake Binagadi (Azerbaijan)
Статья научная
The study conducted in 2024–2025 investigated the structure and interactions of ecosystem components in Binagadi Lake and its adjacent areas in Baku, Azerbaijan. The research focused on bird fauna, vegetation cover, and soil characteristics using field observations, geobotanical surveys, and soil analyses. A total of 37 bird species belonging to 11 orders were recorded, classified as sedentary, migratory, and wintering groups. Rare and protected species, including Aquila nipalensis, Buteo rufinus, Falco naumanni, Porphyrio porphyrio, and Ardea purpurea, indicate the lake’s ecological importance and its strategic role along regional migration routes. Geobotanical surveys identified 27 vascular plant species from 10 families and 22 genera, with 22 annuals and 5 perennials. Most plants are halophytes and xerophytes, reflecting adaptation to saline soils and arid climate. Soil studies showed gray-brown solonetzic soils with low humus content (0.82–1.11 %), high carbonates (~33 %), high clay content (53–70 %), and deep salinity (3.7 %). These soil conditions shape the vegetation toward stress-tolerant annual species, which provide feeding and nesting habitats for birds. Marshy zones support waterfowl, while predatory birds maintain trophic balance. Overall, the Binagadi Lake ecosystem is dynamic and functionally resilient but sensitive to anthropogenic pressures. Continuous monitoring, bioindicator species assessment, and conservation measures are essential to preserve biodiversity and reduce urbanization impacts.
Бесплатно
Статья научная
The Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic is distinguished by its rich flora and diverse ecological conditions. Wood-decaying macromycetes occurring in this region exert a significant impact on the stability of forest and park ecosystems. They mainly belong to the class Basidiomycetes, parasitizing tree trunks and causing “white rot” and “brown rot” processes. This shortens the lifespan of trees, reduces productivity in orchards, and disrupts the biological balance of ecosystems. During expeditions conducted between 2008 and 2025, macroscopic and microscopic analyses of samples collected from various botanical-geographical zones revealed species belonging to the genera Phellinus, Polyporus, Ganoderma, Fomes, and Schizophyllum. Observations indicate that Ganoderma applanatum and Schizophyllum commune possess a wide substrate spectrum and are more broadly distributed in ecosystems, whereas Fomes fomentarius predominantly occurs on willow and poplar. These differences play a crucial role in phytosanitary risk assessment. The phytopathological significance of macromycetes lies in their ability to weaken the mechanical strength of wood, reduce productivity, and cause premature drying of trees. Insufficient awareness of preventive measures exacerbates the problem. Therefore, regular monitoring, sanitary cuttings, preparation of risk maps, and application of molecular-genetic identification methods are essential. Thus, the conducted studies demonstrate that the investigation of wood-decaying macromycetes in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic is of great scientific and practical importance both for maintaining ecological stability and for increasing agricultural productivity.
Бесплатно
Статья научная
As a result of the research, it was found that the genus Salsola L., which was involved in the study in the flora of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, belongs to the family Chenopodiaceae Vent. The family has 100 genera and 1600 species distributed in the world. Of these, 101 species belonging to 33 genera are distributed in the flora of Azerbaijan. There are 30 genera and 76 species in the territory of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. From the systematic review, it is known that there are 13 species of the genus Salsola L., which belongs to the family Chenopodiaceae Vent. in the autonomous republic. In this regard, the species composition, distribution patterns of species, origin and other specific features of the genus Salsola L. were investigated in the research work. A study was conducted on the soil types and altitudinal zones where the genus is distributed. Most of the species belonging to the genus Salsola L. are used in ornamental plants, medicine, and the chemical industry, as they have significant feed value, and none of the species are poisonous. The quality percentage of meat of cattle and small-horned animals fed with it increases.
Бесплатно
Статья научная
The article investigates the bioecological features of early-spring vegetation species belonging to the Asteraceae Dumort. family distributed within the territory of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. The research was conducted in 2025–2026 using the route-expedition method, covering different landscapes and altitudinal belts of the region. Based on field observations and the analysis of scientific literature, it was determined that the early-spring flora of the Asteraceae family in Nakhchivan AR includes 28 species belonging to 16 genera. The results showed that these species are mainly distributed in foothill, lower-mountain, and middle-mountain zones, and partly in semi-desert landscapes. According to life-form classification, the majority of the species are therophytes and hemicryptophytes. These plants develop rapidly during the early spring period when soil moisture is relatively high, complete flowering and seed formation within a short vegetation period, and thus adapt to the arid summer conditions of the region. The research made it possible to determine the bioecological characteristics of early-spring representatives of the Asteraceae family in the flora of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic and to evaluate their distribution and ecological role. The obtained results are of scientific importance for a deeper understanding of the floristic composition of the region and for the conservation of its vegetation cover.
Бесплатно
Статья научная
In the presented article, the species included in the Pimpinella L. genus, common in the flora of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, were studied, and it was found that 11 species of the genus were found in the study area. P. anisum L., one of these species, is cultivated. The article also reflects the bioecological characteristics and areas of use of species belonging to the genus. According to the literature and our research, species belonging to the genus are valuable spices and are used in medicine, perfumery, cosmetics, food, and confectionery industries. The studied species are widespread in the types of vegetation of the foothills, plains, and lower, middle, and upper mountain belts of the region.
Бесплатно
Статья научная
The article provides detailed information about the bioecological characteristics of species belonging to the genus Potentilla L. within the Rosaceae family, which are spread across the flora of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. Our research, analysis of collected herbarium materials, and comparative review of literature sources have shown that the genus Potentilla is represented by 17 species in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, and the current status of these species is also reflected in the article. The studied species are perennial, biennial, or annual herbs and can be found in fields, fallow lands, meadows, forests, shrubs, dry slopes, as well as in the lowland and mountain regions. Based on our research, species of this genus are not only valuable medicinal plants but are also widely used in decorative, food, fodder, and phytomeliorative activities. Additionally, the species Potentilla argentea is of particular importance as a plant that also produces nectar and pollen.
Бесплатно
Статья научная
The article describes the ecological characteristics of species of the genus Stachys L., common in the flora of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. It provides information on the taxonomic spectrum and use of species of the genus Stachys L. of the family Stachyceae. There are 15 species of this genus in the flora of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. The species have medical significance.
Бесплатно
Bioecology of Nematodes of Ruminant Animals of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic
Статья научная
The article presents the species composition, extensiveness and intensity of nematode parasitism in the gastrointestinal tract of ruminants in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. The gastrointestinal system of sheep infected with nematode invasion contained 11 nematode species (Ostertagia marshalli, O. trifurcata, O. occidentalis, O. circumcincta, O. ostertagi, Haemonchus contortus, Gongylonema Pulchrum, Trichostrongylus ovis, T. skrjabini, Nematodirus filicollis, N. spathiger). The distribution of the identified species was extensive: Ostertagia marshalli (32%), O. trifurcata (0,4%), O. occidentalis (14,6%), O. circumcincta (26,6%), O. ostertagi (10,6%), Haemonchus contortus (9,3%), Gongylonema pulchrum (5,3%), Trichostrongylus ovis (13,3%), T. skrjabini (16%), Nematodirus spathiger (14,6%), N. filicollis (16%)It was noted that the most common gastrointestinal nematodes in ruminants in our republic are Trichostrongylus ovis (25,3) и Trichostrongylus skrjabini (16%).
Бесплатно
Biological and Ecological Characteristics of Crocus sativus L. Growing in Azerbaijan
Статья научная
This research investigates the biological, chemical, and agro-climatic characteristics of the saffron plant (Crocus sativus L.) in the conditions of Azerbaijan. It was determined that saffron, in addition to being a vegetatively propagated plant of high economic value, is also widely used in both food and medical fields thanks to its bioactive compounds, such as crocetin, picrocrocin, and safranal. In the Nakhchivan region, certain species are found in the wild and are commonly known as ‘sarychichek’ or ‘chagalagül’. Certain representatives of these species, found in the mountainous areas of the region, are used in traditional medicine for various ailments, including kidney disorders, gynaecological problems, inflammation of the lymphatic vessels (lymphangitis), and skin infections (furunculosis). Research has shown that Nakhchivan's arid and sunny climate, and its light, well-drained soils, create optimal conditions for saffron's development. Mild temperatures, particularly during the autumn months, extend the flowering period, positively affecting both yield and the quality of the stigmas. At the same time, the proper application of agronomic measures, such as sowing depth, irrigation regime, and the regular renewal of corms, plays a crucial role in maintaining yields. Research also shows that the quality characteristics of saffron vary depending on the cultivation conditions. Furthermore, the slow rate of vegetative propagation and a low level of mechanisation have been identified as the main factors hindering the expansion of production. In the Nakhchivan region, sufficient corm reserves have not been established for the commercial cultivation of saffron. For this reason, there remains a need to secure planting material (corms) from external sources to expand production. The saffron plant is propagated by corms, not by seeds. These bulbs are planted in the ground and bloom in the autumn, typically between October and November. Inside each flower are three slender, deep-red stigmas, and it is this part that is dried to form saffron, one of the most expensive spices in the world. The correct assessment of agro-climatic factors, the application of modern biotechnological approaches, and the use of scientifically-based agronomic methods are considered a promising direction for increasing the yield and quality of saffron.
Бесплатно
Biomorphological and ecological analysis of the flora of the Caspian coast
Статья научная
The biomorphological and ecological structure of plant species on the coast of the Caspian Sea is presented. The coastal flora encompasses a range of life forms, with herbaceous plants (45.5%) being the most prevalent. Biomorphological classifications indicate that therophytes, hemicryptophytes, and cryptophytes are the dominant groups. Based on ecological grouping, most plants belong to mesophytes (40.7%) and psammophytes (23.0%), reflecting the adaptation of the local vegetation to the climate and soil characteristics of the area. This diversity underscores the unique botanical composition of the Caspian coast and its ecological adaptations. The study highlights the significance of biomorphological and ecological analyses for understanding the region’s biological diversity and ecosystem balance, providing valuable insights for sustainable ecosystem management.
Бесплатно
Статья научная
The presented article provides information on the botanical and bioecological characteristics of some species belonging to the Cyperaceae Juss., nom. cons. family, spreading in Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic territory. The studies were carried out based on generally accepted geobotanical methods from September 2024 and had a precise route and semi-stationary character. Floristic and methodological expeditions were carried out in the ecological areas of the Araz-river banks, as well as in the high and middle mountainous areas of the Sadarak, Sharur, Kangarli, Shahbuz, Julfa and Ordabad administrative districts of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, where the species of the family are widespread. The systematic composition of the family is given. The systematic composition of the family and description of the most common species are provided.
Бесплатно
Статья научная
In the presented article, the phenomenon of multiparasitism in the rock agama ( Paralaudakia caucasia Eichw., 1831) by the malarial species Plasmodium caucasica Telford, 2013, larvae of tissue nematodes from the Onchocercidae and Spirocercidae families were studied. The host-parasite relationships in animals infected by the aforementioned blood and tissue parasites, as well as the influence of these parasites on their hosts, were investigated. From 1996 to 2005, agamid lizards were captured in the semi-desert territories of Eastern Azerbaijan. Fifteen years later, the blood smears of these lizards were re-examined in light of the new findings. In one mature male rock agama, joint parasitism by plasmodia and larvae of tissue nematodes was recorded. Spirocerca lupi (Rud., 1819) (Nematoda: Spirurida) is endemic in many tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The canine predators may be secondary hosts for these parasitic nematodes. In general, S. lupi has a complex life cycle with both intermediate and paratenic hosts. Meanwhile, S. lupi has an enigmatic peculiarity: infection of canids from intermediate hosts is extremely limited. Probably, coprophagous beetles are the intermediate hosts, ingesting eggs that are contaminated with larvae. The male rock agama, infected by the parasites mentioned above, was very exhausted and soon died. Probably, tissue nematodes have a generalized effect on the paratenic host. The presence of a parasite in the chest of an infected animal, similar in morphology to free-living flatworms, was exciting. The second parasite found in the rock agama is the hemosporidian species P. caucasica . The area inhabited by this parasite spans a large territory from the Caucasus to Pakistan. P. caucasica is a common parasite in rock agamas and can significantly weaken them in case of mass or joint infection with various invasive agents. We described the pathogenic effect of S. lupi larvae, characterized by a general weakening leading to mortality, as well as an increase in the intensity of infection of blood cells by plasmodia compared to lizards infected only with P. caucasica . A conclusion about the interaction between parasites and hosts in rock agamas can be drawn only after a comprehensive study.
Бесплатно
Characteristics of steppe vegetation of Daridag
Статья научная
The article provides information about the steppe vegetation type of the Darıdag area. The study determined that the cereal-miscellaneous mountain xerophytic steppe vegetation is locally widespread at an altitude of 1500-1900 m above sea level in Darıdag. This vegetation type is primarily found on steppe brown and grey-brown soils. A distinctive characteristic of the steppe vegetation is its predominance of grasses, with a notable absence of trees, and the presence of unique plant organisms that thrive in steppe conditions. The main dominants of the subalpine groupings of true steppes characteristic of the steppes of the Darıdag area are the dense grass-forming species Festuca valesiaca , Stipa lessingiana , Koeleria pyramidata , and Agropyron pectinatum . Despite the short-rooted Bromus riparius species being characteristic of the local vegetation, the grouping formed by its dominance is very random. The steppe vegetation type in the area is classified into two formation classes, two formation groups, and 12 associations.
Бесплатно
Статья научная
This study provides a comprehensive classification of elementary landscape units (facies) distributed along the southern slope of the Greater Caucasus in the Sheki–Zagatala region, based on their lithological-geomorphological, hydrological, biological, and biogeochemical characteristics. The research analyzes the morphology of river valleys extending from the Mazimchay to the Vandamchay rivers, the orientation of tectonic fractures, and the impact of slope-driven microclimatic variations on biogeochemical processes. To determine the regular distribution of chemical elements in soils and silt layers, V. V. Kovalsky's biogeochemical methodology was applied, classifying local soils into five geochemical groups and relying on B. B. Polynov’s foundational theory of elementary landscapes. As a result, 14 major landscape-facies types were identified within the 500–2000 m elevation range, corresponding to mountainous, temperate semi-humid, and semi-arid sloping plain landscapes. Among these, six belong to the eluvial group, three to the superaquatic group, three to the subaquatic group, and two to the deluvial group. Regional landscape-geochemical analyses reveal that intensive leaching in high-altitude eluvial systems causes significant thinning of the humus horizon and depletion of nitrogen and potassium, accelerating desertification trends over carbonate-rich substrates. Conversely, in subaquatic and aqua-accumulative (waterlogging-prone) facies, hydromorphic conditions significantly retard organic matter decomposition, facilitating the thickening of the fertile humus layer and resulting in the substantial accumulation of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Бесплатно
