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Flora of Armenia
Abstract
The flora of Armenia comprises about 3800 species of vascular plants (The fifth national report to convention on biological diversity. Yerevan, 2014). A characteristic feature of the flora is the absolute predominance of both the number of species and genera of angiosperms – about 97%. Club mosses, horsetails, and ferns are represented by 39 species, and gymnosperms, only nine species. Among angiosperms, dicots completely predominate – about 80% species. Algae are an integral component of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. They carry out the process of converting solar energy into the chemical energy of photosynthesis products, which is necessary to maintain life and the circulation of substances and energy in the biosphere of our planet, and create an energy base for the existence of organisms of other trophic levels. Currently, the algoflora of Armenia contains 497 species of land and water algae, which are included in 131 genera. Lichens are composite organisms traditionally known as an association of fungus and algae and/or cyanobacteria. According to the latest lichenological studies, 619 lichenized fungi taxa have been reported from the Republic of Armenia so far. Over the years, studies of the bryoflora of Armenia documented 433 species of mosses belonging to 168 genera and 65 families. Of these, 50 species (28 genera, 20 families) are from liverworts, and 383 species (140 genera, 45 families), from mosses (Manakyan, Resultaty bryologicheskikh issledovanij v Armenii (Results of bryological studies in Armenia). Arctoa 5:15–33, 1995; Manakyan et al., Materialy k Hepaticae Armenii (Materials to Hepaticae of Armenia). Flora, vegetation and plant resources of Armenia, 12, 17–25, 1999; Pogosyan, Bryoflora vulkanicheskogo massiva Arailer (Bryoflora of volcanic massif Arailer) (Republic of Armenia). Arctoa 12:187–190, 2003b).
... Recently, Armenia's ecosystems and biodiversity have faced significant anthropogenic pressures, including deforestation, overexploitation of water and biological resources, and economic development. This has led to ecosystem degradation, destruction and loss of natural habitats, diminished species ranges, and changes in population structures (Giam et al., 2010;Fayvush et al., 2023). ...
Potentilla porphyrantha Juz. (Rosaceae) is a very rare stenotopic species with a fragmented distribution that includes small subpopulations in Armenia, Nakhichevan and Northern Iran. It has been assessed and listed in the Red Data Book of Armenia as a Critically Endangered species. The main threats to this species are anthropogenic factors (mainly the mining industry) and forecasted climate change. The purpose of this work was to identify the adaptive potential of the species, explore its conservation possibilities in ex situ conditions, assess the feasibility of its reintroduction into natural habitats, and evaluate the threat to natural populations from predicted climate change. The karyology of this species was investigated. The number of chromosomes and karyotype were determined using mitotic chromosome preparations from metaphase stages. During karyological examination of P. porphyrantha, it was determined that the diploid cytorace (2x), 2n =14 of this species grows in the alpine belt. Eco-physiological investigations were conducted to estimate the species' potential for adaptation to new environmental conditions. The study was carried out both in the species' natural habitat and in introduced environments, specifically the semi-desert and meadow-steppe belts (Yerevan and Sevan Botanical Gardens). Special attention was given to the species' potential adaptation to forecast climate changes by using meteorological data from both natural populations and the botanical gardens where the species was grown ex-situ. The individual features of specimens in different conditions were compared. The results showed that specimens growing in the meadow-steppe belt (Sevan Botanical Garden, 1900 m) are in very good condition, comparable to those in natural populations, and can be used for reintroduction into natural habitats.
Approximately 3,800 species of vascular plant species have been registered in the flora of Armenia, of which chromosome numbers are known for 798. Additionally,
many species have several cytoraces in Armenia (a total of 904 cytoraces have been recorded). The main goal of the study was to elucidate some specific features of florogenesis on the basis of karyological data, and the aim is to characterize the distributions of the cytoraces across floristic regions of Armenia, including elevational zones, and habitats. The study is underpinned by results of our long-term study of Armenian flora, which entailed comprehensively characterizing their chromosome numbers and karyotypes. Geographical elements were established based on general distribution. As a result of the analysis, it was found that the Armenian flora was formed over a long period, starting from the Paleocene period, and is composed of nearly equal proportions of migrants from the Boreal and Ancient Mediterranean subkingdoms, and species that evolved in the Armenian
Highlands and in the Greater Caucasus. The possession of a significant percentage of endemics (mainly neoendemics) indicates that the territory of Armenia is also an arena of intensive formation and speciation. In addition, we also illuminated a large karyological diversity among species whose distribution is confined to the Ancient Mediterranean subkingdom or its parts, including the Armeno-Iranian province; this is indicative of speciation having occurred in these territories. The “northern root” species, Boreal and Caucasian, became establish in Armenia mainly in the form of karyologically stable cytoraces.
New data on jumping spiders (Salticidae) and tangle-web spiders (Theridiidae) of Armenia are provided on the basis of recently collected specimens in various regions of Armenia. One species, Ballus rufipes (Simon, 1868) is recorded as new to the Caucasus Region, in addition to the following species: Neon reticulatus (Blackwall, 1853), Pellenes brevis (Simon, 1868), Salticus scenicus (Clerck, 1757) and Synageles dalmaticus (Keyserling, 1863) that belong to a family Salticidae, are recorded in Armenia for the first time. A further 7 species of Theridiidae are recorded in Armenia for the first time Kochiura aulica (C. L. Koch, 1838), Steatoda albomaculata (De Geer, 1778), Steatoda bipunctata (Linnaeus, 1758), Steatoda castanea Clerk, 1757, Steatoda grossa (C. L. Koch, 1838), Steatoda paykulliana Walckenaer, 1806 and Steatoda triangulosa (Walckenaer, 1802).
In this paper, 11 families (Agelenidae, Filistatidae, Hahniidae, Liocranidae, Mimetidae, Mysmenidae, Oecobiidae, Pholcidae, Phrurolithidae, Sparassidae and Uloboridae), 18 genera and 18 species of spiders new to Armenia are reported. one genus, Mesiotelus Simon, 1897 (Liocranidae) is new to the entire Caucasus. Illustrations are provided for six species.
The genus Geranium is represented by 20 species in Armenian flora. In the present study 9 species of this ge-nus from the territory of Armenia were karyologically investigated for the first time: G. columbinum, 2n = 18 (sect. Columbinum); G. ibericum, 2n = 28, G. sylvaticum, 2n = 28 (sect. Geranium); G. lucidum, 2n = 40 (sect. Robertiana); G. pyrenaicum, 2n = 26; G. pusillum, 2n = 26; G. molle, 2n = 26; G. rotundifolium, 2n = 26; G. divaricatum, 2n = 26 (sect. Rotundifolia).
The Teksar Mountain requires evaluation as a potential Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) and as a Prime Butterfly Area (PBA), especially because the networks of those areas in Armenia are underdeveloped. There are 131 species of birds recorded in the area, among which 101 are breeding and 30 occur during migration or found in breeding season having this site as part of their foraging range. The site fits several criteria of IBA: A1, B1a, B1b, as well as the criteria of PBA: it hosts a number of globally threatened and nationally threatened species, as well as the regional endemics. The site faces a number of threats, related to poaching, overgrazing, uncontrolled mowing, arsons, small Hydro Power Plants, and potentially-metal mining. The existing Yeghegis State Sanctuary covers only 17% of the valuable ecosystems and doesn't function properly. It is proposed to evaluate the area as an Emerald Site, with further development of the site's management plan. Such a management plan should consider extraction of the area from the public hunting lands, development of sustainable grazing and mowing schemes, improvement of the local communities' livelihood through development of wildlife tourism, and an extensive training and educational program.
International Journal of Zoology and Animal Biology 5(5): 1-14
This study reports new records of spiders under few families from Armenia. These add to the checklist of the families Cheiracanthiidae Wagner, 1887; Eresidae C L Koch, 1845; Gnaphosidae Pocock, 1898; and Pholcidae C L Koch, 1850. The results include twelve species of which six are new records from Armenia, and include Eresus kollari Rossi, 1846; Pholcus alticeps Spassky, 1932; Holocnemus pluchei (Scopoli, 1763); Cheiracanthium erraticum (Walckenaer, 1802); Drassodes lapidosus (Walckenaer, 1802); and Aphantaulax cincta (L. Koch, 1866). Notes on the habitat and distributions are given.
Definition
Lichens have long been considered as composite organisms composed of algae and/or cyanobacteria hosted by a fungus in a mutualistic relationship. Other organisms have been gradually discovered within the lichen thalli, such as multiple algal species, yeasts, or even viruses. Of pivotal relevance is the existence of the lichen microbiome, which is a community of microorganisms that can be found living together on the lichen surface. This community performs a growing number of functions. In this entry, we explore the journey of lichens being considered from a dual partnership to a multi-species symbiotic relationship.
The Chukar Alectoris chukar is one of the most popular game birds of Armenia, but there is no governmental monitoring programme for that exploited species. We carried out national surveys in 2003–2019 and estimate the current occupied range of the Chukar in Armenia as 5,082 km ² (17% of the country). In 2019, we estimate Chukar population size at 12,472 breeding pairs (95% CL: 10,266–14,677). Its population trend shows a moderate decline underlying strong annual fluctuations. In Armenia, the Chukar occurs on 20 public hunting lands covering 2,414 km ² in total. Its abundance on these public hunting lands is estimated to 5,558 breeding pairs in 2019 (95% CL: 3,656–7,460). Surveys of the seven Hunters’ Unions of Armenia found that there are 10,000 to 20,000 active hunters. The number of hunting permits issued annually increased ten-fold between 2016 and 2019, exceeding the capacity of the public hunting lands in 2019. A hunter survey found that each Chukar hunter shot on average (± SD) 5.88±3.05 birds in the 2018/19 season, which extrapolates to 17,052–34,104 shot specimens of Chukar (at least 46% of autumn numbers). Current hunting management practice is thus unsustainable and we provide recommendations for sustainable approaches that should replace it urgently.
A revised lichen catalog for Georgia, the South Caucasus, the second after 1986, is presented here. It is based on a literature survey and recent study of herbarium material. The list includes 713 species of lichens and nine species of nonlichenized fungi traditionally treated by lichenologists. As a basis for the present catalog, 106 literature sources reporting the first findings of the listed taxa in floristic regions of Georgia were used. The accepted taxa in bold are followed by references from the literature, if applicable, as well as references from herbarium specimens seen by us at local and several foreign herbaria. Specimens of the 547 of the 722 reported species are stored in the local herbaria: 542 at the National Herbarium of Georgia, the Institute of Botany, Ilia State University, Tbilisi (TBI), and 94 in the Herbarium of the State Museum of Georgia, Tbilisi (TGM). In each literature citation and herbarium code, the occurrence of respective species in Georgia’s floristic regions is given. In addition, a short historical background and comprehensive bibliography are provided.
Despite numerous works devoted to hybrid origin of parthenogenesis in reptiles, the causes of hybridization between different species, resulting in the origin of parthenogenetic forms, remain uncertain. Recent studies demonstrate that sexual species considered parental to parthenogenetic rock lizards (Darevskia spp) avoid interspecific mating in the secondary overlap areas. A specific combination of environmental factors during last glaciation period was critical for ectotherms, which led to a change in their distribution and sex ratio. Biased population structure (e.g., male bias) and limited available distributional range favoured the deviation of reproductive behaviour when species switched to interspecific mates. To date, at least seven diploid parthenogenetic species of rock lizards (Darevskia, Lacertidae) originated through interspecific hybridization in the past. The cytogenetic specifics of meiosis, in particular the weak checkpoints of prophase I, may have allowed the formation of hybrid karyotypes in rock lizards. Hybridization and polyploidization are two important evolutionary forces in the genus Darevskia. At present, throughout backcrossing between parthenogenetic and parental species, the triploid and tetraploid hybrid individuals appear annually, but no triploid species found among Darevskia spp on current stage of evolution. The speciation by hybridization with the long-term stage of diploid parthenogenetic species, non-distorted meiosis, together with the high ecological plasticity of Caucasian rock lizards provide us with a new model for considering the pathways and persistence of the evolution of parthenogenesis in vertebrates.
As a result of studying the biota of the agaricoid basidiomycetes of the Shikahogh State Reserve, 148 species of fungi are found, from which 97 species are edible, 48 species – poisonous and 52 species have medicinal properties. Мacromycetes have great potential for use in medicine and economy.
The Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) of Armenia have been recognized in 2000-2013, however, since that, changes took place in IUCN Red List and in IBAs' criteria. The current paper is aimed at revision of 18 IBAs of Armenia, describing their bird diversity, current and potential threats, existing and proposed conservation measures. The revision reveals that: (1) 14 IBAs fit criteria of global importance and four IBAs fit criteria of regional significance; (2) 12% of the area of IBAs overlap with the public hunting lands; (3) 55% of all IBAs overlap with the working lands; (4) 45% of IBAs are covered by Nature Reserves, National Parks, and State Sanctuaries; (5) 69% of IBAs are covered by candidate Emerald Sites; (6) IBAs are almost entirely covered by Key Biodiversity Areas. Also, the revision shows, that the current network of IBAs doesn't secure protection of a number of trigger species. To improve IBAs network, it is necessary to expand the borders of some of the existing IBAs and to develop some new ones. For better protection of birds and their habitats, it is important to realize a complex strategy of integrated management of the IBAs, which is detailed in the article.
International Journal of Zoology and Animal Biology, 5(1): 1-27
The novelty threat to White Storks Ciconia ciconia in Armenia was investigated in 33 villages of Ararat Plain in 2019-2021. The Storks were becoming smeared with the undetermined agent of plant oil and/or fish fat nature, which was impeding their flying abilities. In 2019 smeared Storks were found in five villages, with total number of 125 smeared nestlings and 84 smeared adult storks. In 2020 smeared Storks were found in 15 villages, in 95 nests, totaling to 285 smeared nestlings and 192 smeared adults. In 2021 smeared Storks were found in 28 villages, in 178 nests, totaling to 534 smeared nestlings and 356 smeared adults. Average percent of the polluted nestlings grew from 5% in 2019 to 21% in 2020 (t=3.62, df=32, p<0.001), and then to 58% in 2021 (t=7.17, df=32, p<0.05). The most likely causes of environmental pollution and Storks' smearing are Sturgeon farms and producers of canned food. Current legislation provides with necessary tools to deal with possible polluters; however there is a need to enforce the laws. Therefore, a number of short-term and long-term measures are suggested to improve the situation.
The faunistic review of Tenebrionidae (excluding Alleculinae) from Armenia is presented. The work is based on longterm collections of one of the authors and materials from museum collections, deposited in Yerevan (the most of material), St Petersburg and Budapest. In total, 123 species of Tenebrionidae, excluding Alleculinae are reliably known from Armenia and confirmed by material. The checklist contains data on specimens (number of specimens and geographic labels) deposited in the museums. Sometimes we refer to reliable sources with the indicated material. Thus, all data have been verified, and the habitat of each species has been confirmed by collection material. The following seven species are recorded from Armenia for the first time: Hedyphanes laticollis Fischer von Waldheim in Ménétriés, 1832 (the first confirmed record), Palorus orientalis Fleischer, 1900, Tenebrio angustus Zoufal, 1892, Pentaphyllus testaceus (Hellwig, 1792), Corticeus longulus (Gyllenhal, 1827), C. suberis (Lucas, 1846), Myrmechixenus picinus (Aubé, 1850). Four latter species are also new for Transcaucasia. The following four species are recorded for Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic (Azerbaijan) for the first time: Aspidocephalus desertus Motschulsky, 1839, Gonocephalum setulosum (Faldermann, 1837), Palorus ratzeburgii (Wissmann, 1848), Cnemeplatia atropos A. Costa, 1847. The following 14 species are excluded from the faunistic list of Armenia because they are not confirmed by collection material: Cnemeplatia atropos, Philhammus cribratellus Reitter, 1901, Lachnogya squamosa Ménétriés, 1848, Leptodes lederi Reitter, 1889, Sternoplax armeniaca (Faldermann, 1837), Lagria atripes Mulsant et Guillebeau, 1855, Blaps scabriuscula scabriuscula Ménétriés, 1832, Neopachypterus serrulatus (Reitter, 1904), Opatrum verrucosum Germar, 1817, Penthicus pinguis pinguis Faldermann, 1836, Sclerum carinatum Baudi di Selve, 1875, Leichenum canaliculatum canaliculatum (Fabricius, 1798), Helops caeruleus stevenii Krynicki, 1834, Uloma culinaris (Linnaeus, 1758).
In addition, we presented corrections (we excluded 15 species as a result of synonymy or incorrect distribution data) to the Catalogue of Palaearctic Coleoptera, which were made in previous works (before the date of publication in 2020) but omitted in this catalogue. A new synonymy is proposed: Cyphostethe semenovi Bogatchev, 1947 = Cyphostethe jelineki Merkl, 1991, syn. n. The species Pimelia persica Faldermann, 1837 is transferred from the nominotypical subgenus to the subgenus Chaetotoma Motschulsky, 1860. Two species, Tenebrio angustus and Palorus orientalis, are synantropic invaders in Armenia.
Existing global regionalization schemes for plants consider the compositional affinities among biotas, but these have not explicitly considered phylogenetic information. Here, we present for the first time, a phytogeographical delineation of the global vascular flora based on species‐level evolutionary relationships.
We analysed 8737 820 geographical occurrence records for vascular plants together with a time‐calibrated phylogeny including 67 269 species. We constructed a global phylogenetic regionalization by estimating species composition and phylogenetic beta diversity among 200 km × 200 km grid cells across the world.
We identified de novo 16 phytogeographical units that are deeply split into two clusters: Laurasian and Gondwanan. Our regionalization broadly matches previous schemes, but also highlights the separation of the Gondwanan biota into an Holotropical cluster and an Australian–Neozealandic–Patagonian cluster. In contrast, no clear split among Laurasian and Gondwanan biotas was retrieved when omitting phylogenetic information.
The integration of phylogenetic and geographical information provides new insights into the delineation of phytogeographical areas and their historical relationships, enabling the identification of three large, clearly differentiated biotas, here referred to as kingdoms: Holarctic, Holotropical, and Austral. Our results provide further evidence for delineating transition zones and show a clear latitudinal pattern of increasing evolutionary distinctiveness towards the poles.
Population monitoring of Northern Lapwing (NL) was conducted in Armenia during 2003-2019 and demonstrated that NL disappeared in three 10x10 km squares. The total AOO of NL is estimated as 496 km 2 , the EOO, as 20,744 km 2. Estimation of national population in 2019 makes 860-1120 breeding pairs. In 2003-2019, the population trend showed a moderate decline (Wald-Test = 10.47, df = 15, p = 0.7891; Overall slope model: Additive =-0.0128, SE = 0.0052, Multiplicative = 0.9873, SE = 0.0052; p < 0.05). The observed decrease makes-26% during 17 years (-1.53% per annum), the estimated decrease makes-43% during 27 years (three generations of NL). The hunting pressures NL via exceeding the daily bag limits, and by shooting NL, when prohibited. The State Inspection has a difficulty in controlling the hunting and poaching being understaffed and underfinanced. In livestock husbandry, the number of NL decreases with an increase of cattle (R 2 = 0.425, F 1,15 = 11.079, p = 0.005), most probably due to increased mowing. Currently NL qualifies for Armenian Red List as Vulnerable A2bc + B2abv + C1. To protect NL, the current candidate Emerald Sites should become official ones protected by Bern Convention, the current public hunting lands should be excluded from Emerald Sites, and current agricultural practices should be reviewed, changing the way of machinery mowing. The mechanism of hunting licensing should include strict hunters' exam. The State Inspection should start cooperation with hunters' unions. The continued monitoring of NL remains essential.
Journal of Ecology and Natural Resources (ISSN: 2578-4994), 5(3): 1-9
One new genus (Sestakovaia gen. nov.; Liocranidae) and 10 new species of five families of spiders are described from different provinces of Iran: Brigittea avicenna sp. nov. (♂♀, Alborz and Kurdistan provinces) (Dictynidae), Micaria atropatene sp. nov. (♂, East Azerbaijan Province), Zagrotes borna sp. nov. (♂, Hormozgan Province), Z. parla sp. nov. (♂, Kerman Province) (Gnaphosidae), Sestakovaia hyrcania sp. nov. (♂, Golestan Province), Mesiotelus patricki sp. nov. (♂, Golestan Province) (Liocranidae), Palpimanus carmania sp. nov. (♂, Kerman Province), P. persicus sp. nov. (♂♀, Hormozgan Province) (Palpimanidae), Rhysodromus genoensis sp. nov. (♂, Hormozgan Province), and R. medes sp. nov. (♂, Hormozgan Province) (Philodromidae). Furthermore, Sestakovaia annulipes (Kulczyński, 1897), comb. nov. (ex. Mesiotelus) and Zagrotes bifurcatus (Zamani, Chatzaki, Esyunin & Marusik, 2021), comb. nov. (ex. Berinda) are proposed as new combinations.
Data on Armenian spider species are summarized. A catalogue of spiders collected during 1988–1998 and deposited in the Institute of Zoology collection, Yerevan, Armenia is given. The review revealed 20 species belonging to nine families. Fourteen species
are recorded for Armenia for the first time. Thus, the number of spider species known from Armenia rises to 190. Liocranum rupicola (Walckenaer, 1830) is recorded for the first time in the Caucasus.
The paper presents an annotated checklist of the Salticidae of Armenia. This study was carried out in 2019-2020 in order to provide an inventory of the Salticidae fauna. Thirteen species are reported for the Armenian fauna for the first time: Afraflacilla epiblemoides (Chyzer, 1891); Aelurillus v-insignitus (Clerck, 1757); Asianellus festivus (C. L. Koch, 1834); Heliophanus dubius C. L. Koch, 1835; Heliophanus kochii Simon, 1868; Heliophanus tribulosus Simon, 1868; Heliophanus curvidens (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1872); Macaroeris nidicolens (Walckenaer, 1802); Pellenes diagonalis (Simon, 1868); Pellenes geniculatus (Simon, 1868); Pellenes seriatus (Thorell, 1875); Pellenes tripunctatus (Walckenaer, 1802) and Phlegra fasciata (Hahn, 1826).
The study of seasonal dynamics in the horizontal development of phytoplankton is important for the ecological assessment of coastal biotopes of lakes. Water level fluctuations affect the quantitative and qualitative parameters of phytoplankton, that caused bloom in 2019. In the development of phytoplankton, an unpredictable succession was observed at the level of divisions and species of algae, which was expressed by water flowering in different seasons. During the active growing season in Lake Sevan, three quantitative maxima were observed in the development of phytoplankton in the lake. In the spring, green algae reached the level of blooming (88%), in the summer - cyanobacteria (90%) and in the fall - diatoms (80%). Frequent algal blooms in the littoral zone indicate the presence of pollution, lead to nutrient enrichment, changing climatic conditions. Blooming of water in summer period with toxic species of the genus Dolichospermum/Anabaena are toxic and cause changes in the habitat. CyanoHABs is a danger of the transfer of blooms to the deep-water areas of the lake, as it observed in 2018-19.
Introduction; Number of species recorded in the countries; Endemic and restricted range birdsof the Caucasus; Important places for the conservation of breeding and migratory birds: Important Birdand Biodiversity Areas and migration bottlenecks; Major threats to birds in the Caucasus; References;
(PDF) STATUS OF BIRDS IN THE CAUCASUS. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/344298822_STATUS_OF_BIRDS_IN_THE_CAUCASUS [accessed Jul 21 2023].
Seasonal hydrochemical, hydrophysical, and phytoplankton studies were conducted in a littoral zone of Lake Sevan in 2019. It is known that in recent years widespread algal blooms were usually started from the littoral zone of Big Sevan, and then spread towards the pelagic zone of the lake. The bloom was mainly caused by species belonging to the genus Dolichospermum (previously Anabaena). Our study has revealed that the physical and chemical properties of water were changed as a result of algal bloom. Particularly, the transparency of water and concentration of dissolved oxygen decreased, while the concentrations of ammonium, nitrite and phosphate ions increased. For the first time, the presence of the toxins microcystin and anatoxin-a was recorded in the lake.
Lake Superior is often described as the most pristine of the Laurentian Great Lakes, but in the past decade Dolichospermum blooms have been observed. Land use in the adjacent watershed has not changed appreciably during this time, but the lake is warming and climatological variables correspond with presence of blooms. Blooms occurred only in relatively warm years as measured by degree days. Furthermore, the two largest blooms, in 2012 and 2018, occurred during years of especially extreme rainfall, providing coincidental evidence that intense storms provide nutrients or living propagules to the blooms from the watershed. Nearshore lake water in the narrow zone where blooms appear shows some riverine influence compared to water further offshore even in the absence of blooms. Nevertheless, water chemistry associated with the largest bloom in 2018 more closely resembled nonbloom nearshore lake water than river water, suggesting that blooms develop or at least persist outside of distinct river plumes. Concentrations of P and N during peak bloom density greatly exceeded any nonbloom lake or river waters, indicating that a buildup of phytoplankton biomass perhaps by floating and drifting to shore also is a significant factor in bloom occurrence. One potentially toxic substance (Anabaenopeptin A) was observed but at low concentration. At peak phytoplankton concentration, high seston C : P indicated severe P limitation while low C : N pointed against N limitation. If these newly observed blooms are indeed driven by temperature and rainfall as this evidence suggests, blooms may continue.
Biological invasions are a global consequence of an increasingly connected world and the rise in human population size. The numbers of invasive alien species – the subset of alien species that spread widely in areas where they are not native, affecting the environment or human livelihoods – are increasing. Synergies with other global changes are exacerbating current invasions and facilitating new ones, thereby escalating the extent and impacts of invaders. Invasions have complex and often immense long‐term direct and indirect impacts. In many cases, such impacts become apparent or problematic only when invaders are well established and have large ranges. Invasive alien species break down biogeographic realms, affect native species richness and abundance, increase the risk of native species extinction, affect the genetic composition of native populations, change native animal behaviour, alter phylogenetic diversity across communities, and modify trophic networks. Many invasive alien species also change ecosystem functioning and the delivery of ecosystem services by altering nutrient and contaminant cycling, hydrology, habitat structure, and disturbance regimes. These biodiversity and ecosystem impacts are accelerating and will increase further in the future. Scientific evidence has identified policy strategies to reduce future invasions, but these strategies are often insufficiently implemented. For some nations, notably Australia and New Zealand, biosecurity has become a national priority. There have been long‐term successes, such as eradication of rats and cats on increasingly large islands and biological control of weeds across continental areas. However, in many countries, invasions receive little attention. Improved international cooperation is crucial to reduce the impacts of invasive alien species on biodiversity, ecosystem services, and human livelihoods. Countries can strengthen their biosecurity regulations to implement and enforce more effective management strategies that should also address other global changes that interact with invasions.
Context - Many large carnivores depend on habitat patches outside protected areas, as well as safe corridors between them. However, corridor assessments typically ignore potential conflicts between carnivores and people, which can undermine corridor effectiveness and thus conservation success.
Objectives - We identified safe dispersal corridors and conflict-prone movement bottlenecks for Persian leopard (Panthera pardus saxicolor) between protected areas in the Alborz Mountains, Iran, by mapping habitat, landscape permeability, and conflict risk. We then identified priority areas for conservation interventions according to the intensities of different threats.
Methods - We mapped land cover using Landsat satellite images, gathered data on leopard and prey distributions and livestock depredation events via interview surveys in 69 cells of 6 × 6 km each. We then used occupancy modeling to identify habitat patches, used circuit theory modeling to analyze landscape permeability, and assessed human-leopard conflict risk using generalized linear models.
Results - Leopard habitat use increased with prey availability and decreased with elevation. Prey distribution, in turn, was mostly negatively influenced by agricultural lands and distance from protected areas. Conflict risk (i.e., probability of leopard depredation on livestock) was high in landscapes where agriculture was widespread and historical forest loss high. Not accounting for conflicts overestimated connectivity among habitat patches substantially.
Conclusions - Human-carnivore conflicts are an important constraint to connectivity and should be considered in corridor assessments. Our study shows how habitat analysis, connectivity assessment, and conflict risk mapping can be combined to guide conservation planning for identifying habitat networks and safe corridors for carnivores in human-dominated landscapes.
Protected areas are the cornerstone of biodiversity conservation. However, alien species invasion is an increasing threat to biodiversity, and the extent to which protected areas worldwide are resistant to incursions of alien species remains poorly understood. Here, we investigate establishment by 894 terrestrial alien animals from 11 taxonomic groups including vertebrates and invertebrates across 199,957 protected areas at the global scale. We find that <10% of protected areas are home to any of the alien animals, but there is at least one established population within 10-100 km of the boundaries of 89%-99% of protected areas, while >95% of protected areas are environmentally suitable for establishment. Higher alien richness is observed in IUCN category-II national parks supposedly with stricter protection, and in larger protected areas with higher human footprint and more recent designation. Our results demonstrate that protected areas provide important protection from biological invasions, but invasions may become an increasingly dominant problem in the near future.
We present a critical checklist of freshwater fish species found so far in the countries of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia. In total 119 freshwater fishes are recorded. There are 40, 86 and 96 species currently known for Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia respectively. From these 119 species, seven are endemic and seven species are alien. From the alien species, only three (Carassius gibelio, Gambusia holbrooki and Pseudorasbora parva) can be considered as widespread and invasive. There are four species (Gasterosteus aculeatus, Gobio artvinicus, Perca fluviatilis and Salmo gegarkuni) that are translocated within the region. Seven species are confirmed or recorded for the first time including G. artvinicus and Oxynoemacheilus veyselorum for Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia, Capoeta kaput and Rhinogobius lindbergi for Azerbaijan and Georgia, Capoeta razii for Azebaijan, Oxynoemacheilus cemali and Squalius agdamicus for Georgia. In this checklist, Acipenser colchicus is treated as a synonym of Acipenser persicus. Sand smelts of the Black and Caspian Sea basin are identified as Atherina caspia and Clupeonella caspia is treated as a synonym of Clupeonella cultriventris. Coregonus sevanicus is listed as Coregonus sp. until the situation of Sevan whitefish is better understood. Capoeta sevangi and Capoeta ekmekciae are synonyms of Capoeta capoeta. The fish often identified as Capoeta capoeta gracilis from rivers south of the Kura most likely belong to C. razii. The Black and Caspian Sea Rutilus populations are treated as conspecific, therefore R. kutum is a junior synonym of R. frisii. Oxynoemacheilus veyseli is valid as O. veyselorum. We list the alien Rhinogobius species as R. lindbergi, however the name is provisional and needs further confirmation. All Squalius species from the Kura River drainage are identified as S. agdamicus, however in the Aras, it is replaced by S. turcicus. Squalius orientalis is treated as a valid species restricted to the eastern Black Sea basin. The four forms of Lake Sevan trout (Salmo ischchan, S. gegarkuni, S. danilewskii and S. aestivalis) are treated as valid species , two of them (S. ischchan and S. danilewskii) are extinct. Rutilus sojuchbulagi from Azerbaijan is also extinct. K E Y W O R D S Caucasus biodiversity hotspot, distribution, freshwater fishes, taxonomy
Background:
The aim of the study was to record wild plants and fungi sold in the capital of Armenia. This is the first large market survey in the Caucasus region. The area of the Caucasus is characterised by a very high diversity of climates, flora and languages which results in very rich traditions of plant use.
Methods:
Interviews were conducted and photos and voucher specimens were taken during multiple visits made over 4 years. We studied 37 locations and 136 people were interviewed.
Results:
As many as 163 plant species, belonging to 44 families and 110 genera, were recorded on Yerevan markets. This included 148 wild food species, 136 medicinal species, 45 species sold for decoration, 15 species of wood and 9 species of insect repellents. Also 14 wild species of fungi were sold, including 12 food species.
Conclusions:
The list of plants sold in the markets of Yerevan is very extensive and diverse, and includes many species of wild fruits, vegetables and medicinal plants, some of them never listed in ethnobotanical directories before. A characteristic feature of this market is a large representation of lacto-fermented products. Some of the species sold in Yerevan have never been reported as human food either in wild edible plant word lists or in ethnobotanical publications, e.g. Angelica tatianae, Ferulago setifolia and Heracleum chorodanum. Fungi are also well represented.
Abstract Invasive alien species are a major threat to biodiversity and human activities, providing a strong incentive to understand the processes by which alien invasion occurs. While it is important to understand the determinants of success at each of several invasion stages—transport, introduction, establishment, and spread—few studies have explored the first of these stages. Here, we quantify and analyze variation in the success of individual animals in surviving the transport stage, based on shipping records of European passerines destined for New Zealand. We mined the original documents of Acclimatisation Societies, established in New Zealand for the purpose of introducing supposedly beneficial alien species, in combination with recently digitized newspaper archives, to produce a unique dataset of 122 ships that carried passerines from Europe to New Zealand between 1850 and 1885. For 37 of these shipments, data on the survival of individual species were available. Using generalized linear mixed models, we explored how survival was related to characteristics of the shipments and the species. We show that species differed greatly in their survival, but none of the tested traits accounted for these differences. Yet, survival increased over time, which mirrors the switch from early haphazard shipments to larger organized shipments. Our results imply that it was the quality of care received by the birds that most affected success at this stage of the invasion process.
Counting chromosomes is the first step towards a better understanding of the karyotype evolution and the role of chromosome evolution in species diversification within Carex; however, the chromosome count is not known yet for numerous sedges. In this paper chromosome counts were performed for 23 Carex taxa from Armenia, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Poland. Chromosome numbers were determined for the first time in three species (Carex cilicica, 2n = 54; C. phyllostachys, 2n = 56; C. randalpina, 2n = 78), two subspecies (C. muricata subsp. ashokae, 2n = 58; C. nigra subsp. transcaucasica, 2n = 84) and two hybrids (C. ×decolorans, 2n = 74; C. ×walasii, 2n = 108). Among the taxa whose number of chromosomes had been known before, the largest difference was found in C. hartmaniorum (here 2n = 52) and C. aterrima subsp. medwedewii (here 2n = 52). A difference in the chromosome count was demonstrated for C. cilicica (2n = 54) versus the species of the section Aulocystis (2n = 30 to 40) and for C. tomentosa (2n = 48) versus the species of the section Acrocystis (2n = 18 to 38). The results of this study indicate that the position of C. cilicica in Aulocystis section may raise doubts. Attention was paid to the relationship between C. phyllostachys and taxa of the subgenus Carex section Gynobasidae.
The last update of the conservation status of the Bearded Vulture
(Gypaetus barbatus; Linnaeus, 1758) in Armenia was undertaken in 2009 for the
appropriate edition of Red Book of Animals of Armenia (2010), using data collected
in the period 2003–2008. Here, over ten year later, we provide an update on this
conservation status using data collected between 2009 and 2019. Results show
that the species’population is now 11–12 breeding pairs; there has been a slight
increase in the population. The annual breeding success, measured as fledglings per
occupied nest, ranged between 0.86 and 1 (mean = 0.96 ± SD = 0.054) during 2003–
2019. Current threats are related to direct persecution for trophies or for keeping
as pets; poisoning by heavy metals at municipal dumps is also a potential threat.
The proposed conservation measures include (1) a change in policies governing the
possession of trophy specimens and captive breeding, particularly the requirement
for an inventory of all existing specimens and the introduction of obligatory
procedure of issuing a certificate of origin for each new specimen; (2) increase of
punishments for illegal shooting or trapping; (3) strengthening of the inspection
body to improve control; (4) improving public outreach aimed at raising the value of
this species nationwide; (5) improving waste management. These measures should
be accompanied by species monitoring.
Details: Bird Census News 2020, 32/1–2: 11–16
Marine protected areas (MPAs) can be an effective tool for the conservation and management of marine coastal habitats. MPAs have been shown to halt habitat degradation, enhance the biomass of exploited species and diversity in general. Yet, we still know little about its role in halting the spread of non-native species. In this study, we assessed the role of MPAs in the structure of shallow subtidal communities around São Miguel Island, in general, and particularly on distribution of the two species of genus Asparagopsis: A. armata and A. taxiformis. In the Azores, the former is a well-established invasive species, whereas the status of A. taxiformis is still questionable. Overall, there was a significant greater diversity in terms of both species richness and number of macroalgal functional groups within MPAs. However, when considering the relative abundance of the various macroalgal functional groups, or the assemblage as a whole (multivariate analysis), there was no significant difference between areas within and outside MPAs. The cover of A. taxiformis was significantly greater within MPAs but not its biomass, whereas no significant variation was observed for A. armata. Overall, results suggest that surveyed MPAs had a positive effect on the diversity of shallow-water macroalgal communities. However, they have a limited role on the distribution of both Asparagopsis spp. and negligible effects when considering the relative abundances of macroalgal functional groups.
The megadiverse genus Carex (c. 2000 species, Cyperaceae) has a nearly cosmopolitan distribution, displaying
an inverted latitudinal richness gradient with higher species diversity in cold‐temperate areas of the Northern
Hemisphere. Despite great expansion in our knowledge of the phylogenetic history of the genus and many molecular
studies focusing on the biogeography of particular groups during the last few decades, a global analysis of Carex
biogeography and diversification is still lacking. For this purpose, we built the hitherto most comprehensive Carex‐dated
phylogeny based on three markers (ETS–ITS–matK), using a previous phylogenomic Hyb‐Seq framework, and a sampling
of two‐thirds of its species and all recognized sections. Ancestral area reconstruction, biogeographic stochastic mapping,
and diversification rate analyses were conducted to elucidate macroevolutionary biogeographic and diversification
patterns. Our results reveal that Carex originated in the late Eocene in E Asia, where it probably remained until the
synchronous diversification of its main subgeneric lineages during the late Oligocene. E Asia is supported as the cradle of
Carex diversification, as well as a “museum” of extant species diversity. Subsequent “out‐of‐Asia” colonization patterns
feature multiple asymmetric dispersals clustered toward present times among the Northern Hemisphere regions, with
major regions acting both as source and sink (especially Asia and North America), as well as several independent
colonization events of the Southern Hemisphere. We detected 13 notable diversification rate shifts during the last 10My, including remarkable radiations in North America and New Zealand, which occurred concurrently with the late Neogene
global cooling, which suggests that diversification involved the colonization of new areas and expansion into novel areas
of niche space.
In the work is presented the data of macromycetes diversity in Shikahogh State Reserve and their taxonomic analysis. During our mycological research were identified 436 species of fungi that belong to division Ascomyiota and Basidiomycota, 2 subdivisions, 7 classes, 22 orders, 73 families, 172 genera. Fromwhich 161 species were not observed in reserve previously, and I2 species and 2 genera are registered in Armenia for the first time. Work in this direction continues.
ABSTRACT
Nine angiosperms were collected from different regions of Armenia aiming to make caryological studies. The results are reported in
the present work: Angelica purpurascens (Avé-Lall.) Gilli, 2n=22; Centaurea vavilovii Takht. et Gabr., 2n=30; Chaerophyllum
aureum L. 2n=22; Cousinia fedorovii Takht., 2n=24; Gundelia aragatsi subsp. steineri Vitek, Fayvush, Tamanyan & Gemeinholzer
ssp.n. 2n=18; Hypericum eleonorae Jelen., 2n=18; Potentilla porphyrantha Juz., 2n=14; Rhaponticoides hajastana (Tzvelev)
Agababian, 2n=30; Rhaponticoides tamanianae (Agababian) Agababian et Greuter, 2n=30. The chromosome numbers for all species
are given the first time for flora of Armenia except Rhaponticoides tamanianae and R. hajastana. The chromosome numbers for 5
endemic species including in Red Book of Armenia: Centaurea vavilovii, Cousinia fedorovii, Gundelia aragatsi, Hypericum
eleonorae, Potentilla porphyrantha, never quoted before in literature and given the first time for science.
Two rarest species: Lesser White-fronted Goose (Anser erythropus) and Spur-winged
Lapwing (Vanellus spinosus) have only been observed in Armenia occasionally on passage. However in 2018, both have been observed throughout the late spring till mid summer, staying in couples at the area, which resembles their natural breeding grounds. While their breeding could be assumed, the further investigations are required.
The latest survey of the White-headed Duck population in Armash wetlands was conducted 6 April–3 June 2018 using timed counts from fixed points. During the survey eight ponds with a total area of 8 km2 were examined. The survey recorded 12 males in breeding plumage, two females and five ducklings at one of the ponds. This is the highest number of adult male White-headed Ducks observed at one place in Armenia during the last ten years. Further investigations for proper estimation of White-headed Duck's population in the country are required.
We described the high diversity of morphotypes of spur-thighed tortoises (the Testudo graeca complex) that inhabit the Araks River Valley. The habitat conditions of tortoises was highly correlated with their external morphology , where the variety of environmental conditions along the Araks River Valley affects the morphological plasticity of tortoises. We speculate that the diversity of external morphology of tortoises might have been promoted by admixed gene expression combined with a high environmental flexibility of the shell in different habitat conditions , as well as by geographical isolation of T. graeca in fragmented areas of distribution in the Ararat Valley.
A study of endemic subspecies Polyommatus myrrha cinyraea Nekrutenko & Effendi, 1979 was implemented in the Southern Zangezur Mountains of Armenia. The Study shows that P.m. cinyraea species lives in rocky subalpine grasslands at about 2500 m a.s.l., the distribution range of the species makes 4.56 ha, its host plant is Cicer anatolicum Alef., and the flight period of imago lasts from mid July to early August. Population of the species is in steep decline as well as the population of the host plant. The existing conservation measures are insufficient and the proposed conservation measures include strengthening population of its host plant, detailing its biological peculiarities; evaluation of conservation status of the species and its subspecies for IUCN Red List; strengthening conservation status of the land and its protection regime; securing obligatory Environmental Impact Assessment of all the business and land use projects in the gorge.
Spiders are an important component of terrestrial ecosystems, and researchers around the world are trying to capture metrics on spider biodiversity. In this study an exploratory survey and analysis of spider diversity was conducted in four provinces in Armenia (Tavush, Lori, Kotayk and Gegharkunik). A total of 98 species of spiders, belonging to 20 families and 67 genera, were discovered in this area. Among these, 13 species were identified as new to the Armenian fauna. Linyphiidae was the dominant family, represented by 27 species. A comparative study of species collected from northern forests revealed low degrees of endemism. This indicates that the Armenian forests are not isolated geographically from the South Caucasus in spite of their unique environmental conditions (being upland); thus, this ecosystem contributes a similar species composition in the area to that of the neighbouring fauna.
The data on the first findings of the southern green stink bug Nezara viridula (Linnaeus, 1758) in Armenia are presented. The species was found in three localities in the north-eastern part of the country, characterized by subtropical climatic conditions. The species is thought to have spread naturally from neighboring regions of Georgia or Azerbaijan.
The national conservation status of the globally threatened Common Pochard Aythya ferina has not previously been assessed in Armenia. Monitoring of the species in 2003-2019 shows that the Pochard breeds in the wetlands of the Ararat Plain, on the Shirak and Lori Plateaus, and at Lake Sevan, c. 800-2,040 m above sea level. It occurs in a core area of c. 64 km 2 , but defining a minimum area polygon that includes all known breeding sites extends to over c. 14,887 km 2. In 2019, the total number of breeding Pochard pairs in Armenia was estimated at 1,917 (95% CI = 1,186-2,647) with a mean breeding density of 30.4 (± 5.91 s.e.) pairs/km 2 (95% CI = 18.8-42.0 pairs). TRIM analysis of available count data found a moderate decline in the breeding population during 2003-2019, with Pochard numbers diminishing by 33% over the 17-year period, and by 16% in the last ten years. Numbers recorded in winter ranged from 34 birds in 2008 to 3,421 in 2015, with the variation apparently attributable to whether water bodies were frozen. A review of the potential threats to the species in Armenia showed that the primary threats are from habitat loss and/or degradation following changes in fish farm management, and also hunting pressure resulting from poor recognition of game species by hunters and a lack of control of hunting regulations. Pochard in Armenia should be considered as Vulnerable under International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) criteria, and two main measures are recommended to improve the conservation status of the species: better control of hunting and poaching nationally, and protection and improved management of key habitats used by the Pochard. Continued monitoring of the species is also essential, for assessing future population changes and to evaluate the efficacy of conservation interventions.
Data on the first registration of conifer seed bug Leptoglossus occidentalis in Armenia are presented.
Penetration of the species from Georgia due to self-dependent expansion or unintentional delivery is presumed.
The article presents an up-to-date overview of the genus Carex (Cyperaceae) in Armenia, including a key and maps of the taxa.
Molot LA, Schiff SL, Venkiteswaran JJ, Baulch HM, Higgins SN, Zastepa A, Verschoor MJ, Walters D. 2021. Low sediment redox promotes cyanobacteria blooms across a trophic range: implications for management. Lake Reserv Manage. XX:XXX-XXX.
Field observations and experimental manipulations with different oxidizing agents including nitrate demonstrate that high sediment redox prevents cyanobacteria blooms in eutrophic freshwaters. Conversely, low sediment redox caused by depletion of dissolved oxygen and nitrate allows blooms to form. This explains why bloom risk increases with phosphorus levels: Higher productivity increases the spatial and temporal extent of low sediment redox. The intermediate link between low redox and cyanobacteria blooms appears to be internal loading of ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) from reduced sediments with diffusion to depths accessible to migrating cyanobacteria, providing a source for their high iron demand. Regardless of whether Fe²⁺ release is the intermediate link, the concept of “low sediment redox as promoter” has major potential to improve bloom management if managers consider the impact of their nutrient management choices, nutrient targets, and in-lake methods on sediment redox. Phosphorus input targets can be adjusted as climate change alters the extent of anoxia, and short-term bloom prediction models that incorporate the sediment redox concept could predict onset of blooms earlier than current models that depend on detection of photosynthetic pigments associated with blooms.
Gasparyan, A. & Sipman, H. J. M. 2020 The first record of Lobaria pulmonaria from Armenia.-Herzogia 33: 554-558. Lobaria pulmonaria is reported for the first time from Armenia. A single specimen was found on an old Oriental Beech tree in Fagus orientalis-Carpinus forest in the Dilijan National Park. Details of the habitat are given, and potential threats discussed.
Zusammenfassung: Gasparyan, A. & Sipman, H. J. M. 2020. Der erste Nachweis von Lobaria pulmonaria in Armenien.-Herzogia 33: 554-558. Lobaria pulmonaria wird zum ersten Mal aus Armenien gemeldet. Ein einzelner Thallus wurde an ei-ner alten Orientalischen Buche im Fagus orientalis-Carpinus-Wald im Dilijan-Nationalpark gefunden. Eine Standortsbeschreibung wird gegeben und die Bedrohung diskutiert.
Data on the expansion of the range of an invasive beetle species, harlequin ladybird (Harmonia axyridis Pall.), in Armenia are presented. The species was first recorded in 2016 in the extreme northwest of Armenia; however, in 2018, the species was found in several localities of Central Armenia and in the basin of Lake Sevan and its mass outbreak was recorded in the extreme northeast of Armenia. It is assumed that the species penetrated into Armenia from Georgia as a result of self-colonization (in the northeast of Armenia) or owing to an unintentional introduction along the main roads of Armenia together with fruit and vegetable products.