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South of Russia: ecology, development

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Vol 20, No 3 (2025)
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VIROLOGY

8-24 40
Abstract

Aim. Systematisation of modern data on phytoviruses from the genus Potexvirus (Tymovirales: Alphaflexiviridae) including their relevance for the South of the Russian Far East.
The paper describes the early (during the first half of the XX century) identification history, taxonomic configuration, species composition (including valid binary names for all 53 viruses known to date), virion morphology, genome structure and expression scheme of members of Potexvirus. The biological properties of eight potexvirus strains described in the South of the Russian Far East and stored in the collection of the Laboratory of Virology in the Federal Scientific Centre for Terrestrial Biodiversity of East Asia, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences: Potato virus X (PVX), Hydrangea ringspot virus (HRSV), Cymbidium mosaic virus (CyMV), Lily virus X (LiVX), Plantago asiatica mosaic virus (PlaMV), White clover mosaic virus (WClMV), Potato aucuba mosaic virus (PAMV), Hosta virus X (HoVX) have been analysed in detail.
The high level of activity of 8 viruses from Potexvirus requires a high level of vigilance on the part of the services ensuring the biological security of the state, as well as mandatory consideration when developing scientifically‐based measures to ensure the food security of the Russian Far East.

25-36 46
Abstract

Aim. Wild animals serve as an important natural reservoir for dangerous viruses. Their migration and interaction with domestic or farm animals and also humans may create conditions for the transmission and spreading of zoonotic infections. This emphasises the importance and necessity of monitoring and research in this area for potential outbreaks of human and animal diseases for prevention. In this regard, an important question arises of how to organize properly the sampling from wild animals. This is the first and the most important stage of monitoring for pathogens and, depending on its optimal implementation, we will subsequently receive adequate results on viral pathogens introduced or circulating in the study area.
In this analytical work, we tried to summarise our twenty‐five years of experience in studying viral pathogens in wild animals throughout almost the entire territory of Russia. The choice of key sampling sites (locations) for monitoring zoonotic infections in bats and birds is substantiated. Depending on the region, the periods for the principal sampling activities are determined. The criteria for selecting a list of bird and bat species and the number of collecting samples are described.
Collection of field material from wildlife is a basic and very important task for monitoring the circulation of viral pathogens in wild animals. Inadequate collection methods can lead to erroneous results and, accordingly, to erroneous conclusions about the presence of potentially dangerous viruses in the surveyed area surveyed.

BOTANY

37-46 37
Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of the overall visual aspect of bushes of Nitraria schoberi L. in the conditions of lowland Dagestan, including a detailed description of morphological changes in bushes at different stages of ontogenesis.
It was established that the crown design varies depending on the conditions of the ecotope and the age of the plant. In the conditions of mobile soil in low‐lying Dagestan, N. schoberi exhibits unique adaptive strategies: the formation of partial structures with rooted skeletal branches that ensure the stability of bushes, and vegetative reproduction. The key mechanisms of adaptation to extreme conditions are the development of a secondary root system, the rooting of lowest branches in contact with the soil, as well as the ability of canopy bushes to form clonal offspring (particulates), which increases the longevity and stability of the species in semi‐desert landscapes.
The results of the study are important for understanding the ecology and biomorphology of the species N. schoberi, as well as to develop measures for the restoration and protection of arid ecosystems.

47-56 40
Abstract

Aim. Monitoring of the vitality status of individuals of Scabiosa gumbetica in five coenopopulations of mountainous Dagestan over a period of ten years.
The study of vitality was conducted using modern methodological approaches based on the size heterogeneity of middle‐aged generative individuals in the population.
The morphometry parameters of individuals of Scabiosa gumbetica in different coenopopulations of mountainous Dagestan vary according to years and localities. Most morphometric features have an increased coefficient of variation. An assessment of the vitality state of individuals of Scabiosa gumbetica in different coenopopulations revealed their depressive character in most cases. The nature of the vitality of individuals and the indices of prosperity/depression of the studied coenopopulations are variable. In the Tantari and Tsudakhar coenopopulations in 2012, a small degree of their prosperity was revealed, and in the Gunib, Chirkey, Harikolo – some degree of depression. In 2021, the Harikolo coenopopulation found a prosperous character, while the Tantari and Tsudakhar coenopopulations reduced the vitality of individuals. The very degree of prosperity/depression of the studied coenopopulations is low. The vitality index also varies by coenopopulations and by year of monitoring. For the Tsudakhar, Tantari and Gunib coenopopulations, the most favourable conditions for the implementation of growth and development processes were the conditions of 2012, and for the Harikolo and Chirkey – 2021.
Despite the often depressive quality, the predominance of the small‐sized fraction of plants and the low level of the vitality index, the coenopopulations of Scabiosa gumbetica firmly conform to the ecotopes of growth. The decrease in the life processes of individuals demonstrates the possibility of survival of coenopopulations under stress conditions and their adaptive potential.

57-65 38
Abstract

The article presents the results of the study of the spatial organization of the areal structure of the flora of the Argun River basin. The geographical elements present in the study area are listed. Based on the analysis of the influence of abiotic conditions and anthropogenic factors on the areal structure of the flora of the Argun River basin, wide‐areal (Palearctic, Pan‐ ancient Mediterranean, Pluriregional), narrow‐areal Caucasian, and Adventive geoelements were selected, the representation of which has information value in assessing the degree of unification, specificity and anthropogenic transformation of the flora.
It is noted that the areal structure of local floras of the Argun River basin largely depends on natural and climatic conditions and has great information value for assessing the anthropogenic transformation of ecosystems. Along the altitudinal gradient, the degree of specificity of the flora of the study area increases (representation of the Caucasian geoelement), which is most pronounced in highland conditions. Under the influence of human activity, as well as in the conditions of the temperature and water regime of the plain‐foothill territories, there is a unification of the flora of the Argun River basin (distribution of wide‐range species) and a significant increase in the representation of adventive species.

ZOOLOGY

66-81 44
Abstract

Aim. To summarise the available data on the ecology and morphology of the water deer (Hydropotes inermis Swinhoe, 1870).
The water deer is the most primitive in the deer family (Cervidae Goldfuss, 1820) and has the greatest morphological similarity with the extinct Dremotheriinae. A phylogenetic tree of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene shows the proximity of the water deer to roe deer (Capreolus Gray, 1821) and muntjacs (Muntiacus Rafinesque, 1815). A number of morphofunctional characteristics of the water deer contribute to its habitat in waterlogged habitats. The modern range of H. inermis is fragmented: the Chinese subspecies inhabits the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, while the Korean one – on the Korean Peninsula is actively expanding its range to the adjacent territories. The paper discusses the expansion of the water deer in the south of the Primorsky krai, provides data on the nutrition, reproduction and population dynamics of this species here as well as potential problems in the field of biosafety.
A stable population of water deer has formed in the south of the Primorsky krai. The size of this population continues to increase due to the high productivity of this species, the availability of sufficient fodder, places for shelters and the consistently improved system of protection of natural territories in Russia, China and North Korea. The water deer can be considered as a reserve element of the food resource for the large felines of IUNC Red List. It is necessary to intensify zoological studies of this species and combine them with comprehensive ecological, virological and parasitological monitoring.

82-92 43
Abstract

Aim. To assess the population density of ptarmigans (Lagopus spp.) necessary for the successful breeding of Gyrfalcons (Falco rusticolus) in the new northern expansion of its breeding range on the Yamal Peninsula.
Aerial surveys of ptarmigan were conducted from an Mi‐8 helicopter in October along the route from the town of Labytnangi – Cape Tiuitei‐Sale. The 560 km long route covers three bioclimatic tundra subzones. A total of 17,407 ptarmigans were counted.
The density of ptarmigan encountered ranged from 3.60 to 55.17 birds per km² in different tundra subzones of the peninsula. The averaged numbers from three aerial surveys showed similar densities for typical and arctic tundra subzones: 34.04 ± 7.37 and 33.53 ± 11.17 individuals/km², respectively. In the shrub tundra, the density was four times lower – 8.45 ± 2.69 individuals/km².
The high ptarmigan density recorded north of the shrub tundra subzone may ensure successful, regular nesting of Gyrfalcons in these areas. According to our estimates, the revealed high abundance of ptarmigans in central and northern Yamal is sufficient for the successful nesting of several dozen pairs of Gyrfalcons.

93-102 35
Abstract

To present data on the mollusc fauna found on bone remains from natural deposits (including skulls, horn cores, and postcranial skeletons) on the northwestern shore of Lake Sevan. Identified remains include Cervus elaphus (red deer), Bison sp. (wisent), Canis lupus (grey wolf), Vulpes vulpes (red fox), Bos sp. (aurochs) and Sus sp. (boar). The study records ten species of freshwater mollusks associated with the mammal bones. Among these, two species – Bithynia troscheli Paasch, 1842 and Planorbis carinatus Müller, 1774 – are identified as glacial relicts.

ECOLOGY

103-114 51
Abstract

The aim of this work was to study the antioxidant properties of fullerenol C60(OH)36 in various in vitro model systems, as well as to evaluate the protective effectiveness of fullerenol against proteins and lipids of liver homogenates.
The experiments were carried out on liver homogenates of white
laboratory rats. At the initial stage, the antioxidant activity of fullerenol in various concentrations (from 1×10‐5 to 0.2 mg/ml) was evaluated. Since the fullerenol concentration of 0.001 mg/ml showed a sufficiently high antioxidant activity in the epinephrine autoxidation system, we used it to study the antioxidant activity in other model systems in which artificial induction of oxidative stress was performed.
Subsequently, control values were obtained in each model system, relative to which the effectiveness of fullerenol as an antioxidant was judged. The protective efficacy of fullerenol against liver homogenate proteins and lipids was evaluated. The effect of fullerenol on the activity of the superoxide dismutase enzyme was also studied. Using the model system, it was shown that fullerenol prevents oxidative damage to lipids.
A study of the intensity of oxidative modification of proteins in the Fe+2/H2O2 model system (Fenton's medium) showed that fullerenol effectively reduced the increase in carbonyl groups. C60(OH)36 at a concentration of 0.001 mg/ml reduced the rate of ROS generation in rat liver mitochondria, which resulted in a decrease in the fluorescence intensity of the ROS‐sensitive (reactive oxygen species) the probe.

115-121 38
Abstract

Aim. Edification of pedagological conditions, which will not only ensure the assimilation of environmental knowledge but also form stable value‐based assets that motivate students to actively participate in solving environmental problems.
In the course of the study, an integrated approach was used, combining theoretical analysis and practical methods for studying the formation of environmental consciousness among students. The work was based on a deep analysis of scientific literature on pedagogy, environmental education and psychology. The main tool was a survey, which included several types of questions. An important component was the holding of competitions of environmental projects focused on the use of secondary raw materials of the textile industry.
A qualitative analysis of the data obtained revealed several key factors contributing to the formation of environmental consciousness. Firstly, an important role is played by the possibility of applying knowledge in practice. Secondly, group work has a significant impact that allows discussing environmental problems and looking for solutions together. Thirdly, as the study showed, direct contact with natural objects significantly enhances the emotional involvement of students. The results indicate that the combination of theoretical preparation with practical activities creates optimal conditions for the development of environmental consciousness.
The study confirmed that the formation of environmental consciousness is an important component of the professional training of a modern specialist. The methods and recommendations developed can be used to improve educational programs in higher education. Further work in this direction will contribute to the preparation of a new generation of professionals with not only special knowledge but also a formed environmental culture, which is especially important in the context of modern global challenges.

122-132 29
Abstract

Aim. To study the stress resistance of grape varieties by evaluating their growth parameters, pigment composition and photosynthetic activity under conditions of NaCl salinity.
Measurement of growth and regeneration parameters in grape cuttings under salt stress, determination of photosynthetic pigment content by spectrophotometry and measurement of fluorescence by PAM – fluorometry.
The Augustine variety was characterizsed by the highest growth and regeneration rates of cuttings under salt stress (100 mM NaCl). The maximum amount of chlorophylls a and b was found in Agadai and Moldova varieties. Studies of the fluorescent parameters made it possible to assess the sensitivity of the photosynthetic apparatus (PSA) to the effects of stress factors. The intensification of the photochemical output of photosystem 2 (FS2) observed, indicates the effective operation of protective mechanisms and the implementation of which leads to stability during salinity. High rates of photosynthesis intensity (Y (II)) correlated with the rate of electron transfer along the electron transport chain. In the Augustine variety, the relative speed of electronic transport of the experimental and control samples coincided, in the Rkatsiteli variety they exceeded the control values by 30% and in the Agadai and Moldova varieties they were inferior to them. 
Overall, changes in the content of photosynthetic pigments and the efficiency of the work of the photosynthetic apparatus and productivity indicate the resistance of the studied varieties to salinisation conditions.

GEOECOLOGY

133-144 38
Abstract

Aim. This study sets out to determine and compare the concentrations of several heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd) in the water and bottom sediments of Lake Seliger, with a particular focus on the impact of technogenic load.
The present study was conducted with the aim of determining the levels of heavy metals (HM) in the water and bottom sediments of five reaches of Lake Seliger during the summer periods of 2023 and 2024. The levels of HM were determined in order to ascertain the effects of different anthropogenic loads on the environment. Atomic absorption spectrometry with electrothermal atomisation and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry were used to conduct the quantitative chemical analysis.
The results of the study indicate that spatial heterogeneity in the distribution of chemical elements in Seliger water is primarily attributable to the location of pollution sources and the complex configuration of the lake itself. Maximum concentrations of heavy metals in water and bottom sediments are observed in the Slobodskoy and Ostashkovskoy reaches, in proximity to industrial enterprises, while minimum concentrations are recorded in the Berezovskoy and Polnovskoy reaches. Elevated concentrations of elements are characteristic of the Selizharovsky reach, which is, in fact, a transit reach, through which pollutants are transported to the Selizharovka River. The distribution of heavy metals in the bottom sediments of the lake practically mirrors the distribution of elements in water. Based on the analysis of the values of bottom accumulation coefficients obtained by the authors, a high level of chronic pollution of the lake by all studied metals was established.
The results obtained underline the necessity for a thorough investigation into the ecological condition of the reservoir, in conjunction with the implementation of additional systematic observations pertaining to the content of pollutants in the water and bottom sediments of Lake Seliger.

145-154 28
Abstract

Aim. To identify regional peculiarities of the formation and functioning of the landscape‐ecological framework (LEF) of a territory using the example of districts in Orenburg Oblast.
The study is based on an integrated framework‐landscape approach that combines traditional methods of geographical analysis with modern geoinformation technologies. The informational foundation of the work consisted of official statistical data, remote sensing data and materials from field studies.
The key components of the LEF districts in the Orenburg region have been identified. Significant differences in the structure and functioning of the LEF in the studied districts were identified. Svetlinsky District is characterized by a higher degree of connectivity of LEF elements, while Pervomaysky District has the lowest. The role of hunting grounds as buffer elements and ecological corridors was determined; prospects for the formation of recreational and environmental landscape complexes within the LEF structure to reduce anthropogenic pressure on core areas were identified.
Significant differences in the structure and functioning of the LEF in the studied districts were identified. Svetlinsky district is characterised by a higher degree of connectivity of LEF elements, while Pervomaysky district has the lowest. Analysis of remote sensing data in all districts revealed significant discrepancies between official land category data and actual land use. The role of hunting grounds as buffer elements and ecological corridors was determined and prospects for the formation of recreational and environmental landscape complexes within the LEF structure to reduce anthropogenic pressure on core areas were identified.

155-168 36
Abstract

Aim. Assessment of the ecological state of the Vyatka River and its tributaries in the Kirov region during canoe expeditions. Material and methods. The studies were conducted using chemical, toxicological, microbiological analysis methods, lichen indication, geobotanical, bioindication research methods, and a survey of the competencies of expedition participants.
Based on the results of chemical, toxicological and microbiological analyses of river water samples from the Vyatka, Letka, Kobra, Pizhma, Cheptsa, and Moloma rivers, the most polluted and cleaner sections of the rivers were identified. Using geobotanical research techniques, the species composition of meadow and forest vegetation was determined. The percentage of lichen cover in pine forests was measured. The species composition of invertebrates in the rivers was determined. Assessment of the expedition participants’ acquisition of competencies was carried out.
The most polluted sections of the rivers were identified, the largest number of meadow vegetation species being found in the Atarskaya Luka nature reserve. The forest vegetation of the Kirov region is represented by conifers, aspen, birch and other soft‐leaved trees. The percentage of lichen cover of pine forests ranges from 2 % to 100 % and decreases near cities. The highest species composition of invertebrates is in the Moloma and Pizhma rivers: the biotic index is 6–9. A survey of expedition participants showed an increase in the level of the cognitive competence ofi dentifying other soft‐leaved trees. The percentage of lichen cover of pine forests ranges from 2 % to 100 % and decreases near cities. The highest species composition of invertebrates is in the Moloma and Pizhma rivers: the biotic index is 6–9. A survey of expedition participants showed an increase in the level of the cognitive competencies in ecological fieldwork and acquisition of further competencies in activity, research activity and scientific communication during and after the expeditions.

GENERAL PROBLEMS

169-174 50
Abstract

Aim: To analyse the organisation of spiritual and moral education in a multicultural, multinational and multi‐confessional environment of young people in secondary vocational education in the Republic of Dagestan using the example of the college of Dagestan State University.
The education of young people, including students in secondary vocational education, is aimed at instilling in them traditional spiritual and moral values. The peculiarity of education in a multicultural and multi-confessional region is instilling a culture of interethnic relations, revealing universal human values through the prism of the customs and traditions of the peoples inhabiting Dagestan.
The education of students in a multinational region presupposes, in addition to universal traditional values, an emphasis on respect for another culture, another language, customs and religion, and the ability to not become locked into a circle of narrow national interests.

175-181 31
Abstract

Aim: To analyse and characterise the activity of the Boiling Point of Dagestan State University (DSU) as a new developing space for the activation of scientific and social activities in the region, including among students, from the standpoint of social ecology.
The lack of clear boundaries in the definition of the concept of "social ecology" creates room for interpretation, which damages the accuracy of scientific research and complicates the development of effective social and environmental strategies for educating students. This lack makes it impossible to set and implement socio‐psychological and educational tasks for the development of public space in order to give a new meaning to the "third mission of the university" and expand the format of the DSU "Boiling Point" educational platform. The innovative and educational platform Boiling Point of DSU, through fulfilling the functions of personal ecology development, ecological relations in society as opposed to toxic ones (destroying or constraining social development) and, nurtures a new generation of youth focused on continuous comprehensive self‐ development. At the same time, they create the competencies necessary for modern society in organisational interaction with government agencies and social movements.
Based on new formats for expanding the environmental friendliness of society, measures have been proposed to use the results of Boiling Point's activities in the overall socio‐economic development of the region, namely, by relevant ministries and departments in order to achieve an optimal level of individual needs and quality of life.

182-193 33
Abstract

The article explores the methods of reflecting quotas in financial statements in accordance with IFRS and their impact on the financial results of companies. It examines various approaches to assessing carbon obligations and analyzes the impact of quotas on the profitability of enterprises. Special attention is given to the challenges of accounting and auditing carbon assets and liabilities, as well as the risks associated with changes in climate policy. Aim: to study the methodological approaches to accounting for CO₂ emission quotas in accordance with international financial reporting standards, as well as to assess their impact on the financial results of companies.
A comprehensive approach in the study allowed not only the identification of current accounting practices, but also the assessment of their relevance in the context of tightening climate policy. The use of quantitative and qualitative methods ensures the reliability of the findings and the possibility of developing practical recommendations in this area. The results can be used to improve CO₂ accounting and audit systems, as well as to assess the financial risks associated with the transition to a low‐ carbon economy.
The study demonstrates a significant impact of the accounting and audit system for CO₂ emissions quotas on financial results. It has been established that the correct reflection of carbon obligations in IFRS‐compliant reporting minimises financial risks for investors. The results highlight the need to develop unified standards for quota audits and adapt accounting practices to the increasing environmental regulations.

BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES

194-200 33
Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the polymorphism of the growth hormone GH, calpastatin CAST, growth and differentiation factor 9 GDF9, and keratin associated protein 1.3 KAP1.3 genes in a local indigenous sheep breed from Dagestan using polymerase chain reaction with restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis PCR RFLP. The material comprised blood samples from 59 animals collected in compliance with ethical standards. Laboratory analyses were carried out in an accredited laboratory, where genomic DNA was extracted by phenol chloroform extraction followed by purification and spectrophotometric quality assessment. Genotyping was performed using gene specific primers and restriction endonucleases followed by electrophoretic separation of the reaction products. A predominance of homozygous genotypes at the GH, CAST and GDF9 loci was observed, which was associated with high homozygosity and low polymorphic information content PIC for these loci. In contrast, the KAP1.3 locus showed an increased level of genetic diversity and moderate polymorphism with PIC equal to 0.375. These findings provide a basis for refining approaches to the use of these genetic markers in breeding programmes without reducing the genetic diversity of the population.

RECREATIONAL GEOGRAPHY

201-209 35
Abstract

Aim. To develop an operating model for a glamping site as an eco‐project in the hospitality industry offering high‐quality service.
To study the specifics of this topic, we used methods of systems analysis, analogy, modeling, and observation. Since this area is viewed as a set of interconnected systemic elements, an organisational approach was also used, which involves analysing this area taking into account the development of external and internal factors. A logical analysis of theoretical definitions and a comparative analysis of practical conclusions were used. A deductive approach was employed, moving from general conclusions to specific inferences.
The popularity of this type of outdoor recreation increased especially during the pandemic and post‐pandemic periods, when borders to foreign countries were closed to tourists and the demand for travel was high. It was during this time that domestic tourism began to rapidly develop. People desired outdoor recreation combined with the many amenities found in traditional hospitality venues. Therefore, using the example of glamping parks in Tatarstan, this article presents options for organizing tourist vacations in glamping sites built from environmentally friendly materials and offering high‐quality service.
Glamping is a fairly profitable modern business in terms of return on investment. Many clients are willing to pay for privacy and tranquility, provided services, comfort, and amenities are available. All these factors help increase the demand and competitiveness of glamping industry businesses.



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ISSN 1992-1098 (Print)
ISSN 2413-0958 (Online)