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Acta Biologica Sibirica
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This is an Open Access Journal

Open Access journal
ISSN (Online) 2412-1908
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[58 journals]

The spatial analysis of landscape ecological stability and ecological
security in the steppe regions of Russia
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 593-607
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e78450
  Authors : Alexander A. Chibilyov Jr, Dmitry S. Meleshkin, Dmitry V. Grigorevsky : The ecological-economic security [EES] and the landscape-ecological stability of the steppe regions of Russia are the main factors of national security and indicators of the sustainability of socio-economic development. Therefore, it is advisable to consider them based on large-scale studies. The study territory is a mesoregion, including the steppe zone of Russia. A comprehensive analysis of the economic development, social sector, and ecological condition of the territory became the basis for assessing the EES of the regions. We assessed landscape-ecological stability by calculating the coefficient of ecological stability of the landscape. Based on reliable information, we formed a database that comprises 37 indicators for 18 steppe regions of Russia. Using the coefficients and integral indices, we compiled an integrated schematic map. As a result, we established that the level of stability of the ecological landscape increases to the northeast of the studied territory. We observed the maximum value of the ecological and economic security index (1.8) in Krasnodar Krai, the Republic of Bashkortostan, and Novosibirsk Krai. Furthermore, we characterized the regions where the coefficient of ecological landscape stability exceeded 1 by indicators of ecological and economic security, presented in the ratio 1/1.5/2. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 23 Dec 2021 16:00:00 +020
Phytoplankton as an indicator of the current ecological status of the Ob
River
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 573-591
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e79236
  Authors : Natalya N. Barsukova, Olga P. Bazhenova, Larisa G. Kolesnichenko : The species composition, taxonomic structure, and the dominant complex of algae, and the distribution of phytoplankton abundance in the studied watercourse were identified based on data obtained for phytoplankton from the Ob River (from Tomsk to Salekhard) in summer 2019. Green algae (division Chlorophyta) make up the basis of the phytoplankton abundance in the river. The dominant complex is represented mainly by centric diatoms (genera Aulaсoseira, Cyclotella, Stephanodiscus) and non-heterocyst forms of cyanoprokaryotes (genus Aphanocapsa). The numbers and biomass of phytoplankton gradually decrease downstream of the Ob River; below the confluence of the Irtysh River, the edge effect occurs: increase in the diversity and density of organisms at the boundaries of ecosystems. Compared to the previous studies, the proportion of green and euglena algae, and cyanoprokaryotes in the taxonomic spectrum of phytoplankton increased, the composition of the dominant complex enriched, including due to non-heterocyst forms of cyanoprokaryotes, and the trophic status of the river increased to the category of eutrophic waters. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 23 Dec 2021 15:30:00 +020
New discoveries of Geometridae (Lepidoptera) from the extreme southwest of
the Russian Far East – result of climate impact'
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 559-572
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e78598
  Authors : Evgeny A. Beljaev, Svyatoslav A. Knyazev : New founds of 4 species of East Asian Geometridae: Megabiston plumosaria (Leech, 1891), Photoscotosia lucicolens (Butler, 1878), Callabraxas fabiolaria (Oberthür, 1884), and Dysstroma cinereata (Moore, 1867) in the extreme southwest of the Russian Far East are presented and discussed due to the actual distribution and its current trends. From them Ph. lucicolens is recorded from Russia and China (Jilin) for the first time. Identity of specimens of "Photoscotosia atrostrigata" and "Dysstroma cinereata" in Barcode of Life Database is revised to Ph. lucicolens and Paradysstroma corussaria (Oberthür, 1880) respectively. These founds probably indicate northern expansion of ranges of geometrid moth in accordance with the current climatic trend of global warming. Potential harmfulness of M. plumosaria in RFE is assumed. The validity of Dysstroma cinerea cesa Koçak & Kemal, 2001, as a substitute name for Dysstroma cinereata japonica (Heydemann, 1929) is substantiated. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Wed, 22 Dec 2021 16:00:01 +020
Synanthropization and species diversityof floodplain ecosystems of the
Ob-Irtysh basin, Russia
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 545-558
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e78477
  Authors : Elena I. Popova : Currently, the phytocenoses of the Irtysh floodplain are experiencing intense anthropogenic pressures due to the intensive development of the oil and gas industry, as well as the urbanization of the territory. This paper focuses on the structure and species composition of the 27 studied areas in the floodplain ecosystems of the Ob-Irtysh basin. As a result of the research, we found 111 species of vascular plants from 33 families in plant communities. The areas belong to meadows and forest vegetation are represented by (1) birch forests (33%), (2) pine forests (10%), (3) fir forests (8%), (4) aspen forests (4%) and (5) associations of meadows (45%). Furthermore, we conducted a comparative analysis of the studied phytocenoses according to the Drude scale. To determine the anthropogenic transformation of the flora and individual plant communities, we determined the synanthropization index (the ratio of synanthropic species to the total number of species). In the synanthropic flora fraction, we distinguished 45 species belonging to 12 families, with the most multispecies being Apiaceae, Scrophulariaceae, Compositeae, Ranunculaceae, Poaceae, Fabaceae, Plantaginaceae. The synanthropization index of the studied phytocenoses ranges from 6.6% to 81.2%. The largest number of synanthropic species occurs in meadow associations, the content of synanthropes is greater than 50%, the structure is becoming more superficial, and the productivity and stability of plant communities are changing. The study of the horizontal structure of grass stands of meadow phytocenoses makes it possible to find the variability of different years, the change of dominant species and the stability of the species composition. Currently, researchers are paying considerable attention to the analysis of the structure of the herbage, since its study is of great theoretical and practical importance in clarifying phytocenotic relations. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Wed, 22 Dec 2021 16:00:00 +020
Ecological and morphological features of Rhodiola rosea L. in natural
populations in the Altai Mountains
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 529-544
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e78936
  Authors : Alexey S. Prokopyev, Mikhail S. Yamburov, Olga D. Chernova, Tatyana N. Kataeva, Elena S. Prokopyeva, Elena Yu. Machkinis, Alexander A. Kuznetsov : The paper presents the results of the comprehensive study of Rhodiola rosea L. in natural populations in the Altai Mountains. The phytocoenotic confinement, demographic structure, and morphological characters of coenopopulations of Rh. rosea were studied in different ecological and coenotic conditions in the Chemal and Kosh-Agach regions of the Republic of Altai. Correlation between the morphometric parameters and their calculated values for the shoot and sex of the studied individuals, as well as environmental factors, was revealed. Rhodiola rosea L. is a valuable medicinal plant used for functional diseases of the central nervous system. At present, the natural reserves and areas of natural growth of the golden root have decreased significantly. The species is included in the Red Data Book of the Russian Federation (2008) and many regional Red Data Books of Siberia. In the Altai Mountains, Rh. rosea is widespread throughout the highlands, where it has occupied a wide range of habitats. The study showed that the highest values of ecological and effective density are characteristic of coenopopulations which are part of various hygrophytic variants of alpine and subalpine miscellaneous herbs with a high total projective cover of the herbaceous layer (CP 1, 2, 3, 4). The lowest values were found for coenopopulations growing in communities with a scarce herbaceous layer or dense shrub layer, and on steep gravelly slopes with crumbling soil and nonuniform moisture distribution (CP 5, 6, 8, 9). The studied coenopopulations are normal, full-membered, or incomplete-membered (some of them lack postgenerative individuals). In terms of the ontogenetic spectra, they are mainly left-sided, with a predominance of young generative individuals (CP 4, 5, 7) or bimodal, with an additional peak for old generative individuals (CP 2, 3, 6, 8). Male and female individuals Rh. rosea differ in many morphometric characters of the generative shoots. In some coenopopulations (CP 2, 3, 6, 9), male and female individuals show multidirectional deviation of characters compared to the totality, which indicates that in different environmental conditions these characters are not only genetically determined but can also be related to the sex of individuals. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 21 Dec 2021 09:00:00 +020
New records of Geometridae and Noctuidae (Insecta: Lepidoptera) from Omsk
and Novosibirsk Regions of Russia
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 519-528
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e78480
  Authors : Svyatoslav A. Knyazev, Vadim V. Ivonin, Sergei V. Vasilenko, Sofya M. Saikina : Nine species of Lepidoptera from the territory of Omsk and Novosibirsk Regions are reported. Four species are new to Omsk Region, among them, Panchrysia ornata (Bremer, 1864), Sympistis campicola Lederer, 1853, Pseudohadena argyllostigma (Varga & Ronkay, 1991), Orthosia cerasi (Fabricius, 1775). Six species are new to Novosibirsk region, among them Eupithecia carpophillata Staudinger, 1897, Idaea nitidata (Herrich-Schäffer, 1861), Sympistis campicola Lederer, 1853, Sidemia spilogramma (Rambur, 1871), Polia malchani (Draudt, 1934), Sideridis lampra Schawerda, 1913. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 20 Dec 2021 13:00:00 +020
New records of Crambidae (Insecta, Lepidoptera) from Omsk Region
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 515-518
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e78494
  Authors : Svyatoslav A. Knyazev, Sofya M. Saikina, Konstantin B. Ponomarev : Four species of Crambidae are reported from the territory of Omsk Region of Russia. Titanio ledereri (Staudinger, 1870) is new to Asian part of Russia, Loxostege peltalis (Eversmann, 1842), Catoptria verellus (Zincken, 1817) and Ostrinia peregrinalis (Eversmann, 1852) are new to West Siberia. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 16 Dec 2021 09:00:00 +020
Comparative analysis of phytolith spectra of steppe and forest
phytocoenoses
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 505-513
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e78448
  Authors : Natalia Y. Speranskaya, Tatyana A. Zhembrovskaya, Daria G. Bobkova : The primary research goal is to identify differences and diagnostic features of the phytolith spectra of the steppe and forest phytocoenoses. The paper presents the research results of recent soils from various communities. The authors employ the phytolith analysis method. The isolation of phytoliths from recent soils has been carried out with the help of the maceration method and from plants – the dry ashing method. The authors counted the phytoliths using the Olympus BX-51 light microscope. Additionally, the authors have compiled the spectra using the 2C software. The paper compares the phytolith spectra of plain and mountain steppe phytocoenoses. The comparison reveals that the considered plain communities are more similar in phytolith composition than the mountain ones. The following morphotypes are common for all spectra: low conical rondel particles and psilate ribbed particles. These are the forms that characterize steppe communities. Analysis of phytolith spectra of the mountain forest communities demonstrates that the presence of ribbed particles of psilate is common for all spectra. The common feature of all forest spectra is the presence of psilate symmetrical particles, polylobate trapeziforms, lanceolates (trichomes) with a massive base, and trapeziform bilobate (“Stipa-type”) particles. In the spectra of all pine forests, there is a low content or complete absence of needle phytoliths. Diagnostic features of individual phytocoenoses have not been found. The most significant is the ratio of individual phytolith forms in the phytolith spectrum. The comparative analysis of phytolith spectra of the phytocoenoses in the south of western Siberia is carried out for the first time. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Wed, 15 Dec 2021 13:00:00 +020
Populations of Agrostis diluta Kurcz. and Psathyrostachys caespitosa
(Sukaczev) Peschkova in Yakutia: dynamics of vitality
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 491-503
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e78452
  Authors : Vilyura E. Kardashevskaya, Nyurguyana N. Egorova : In Yakutia, natural floodplain meadows and steppes have long been involved in economic activities. To develop methods of rational use, one needs to constantly consider the state of vegetation, mainly its constituent populations. Our research focuses on studying the dynamics of the vitality of the populations of the Agrostis diluta Kurcz. and steppe Psathyrostachys caespitosa (Sukaczev) Peschkova cereals. These species play an essential role in the composition of vegetation cover. We determined the vitality coefficient IVC. Our study of populations over several years has revealed the dynamic mobility of the vital structure, which is of adaptive significance and ensures the sustainability of populations. We have found that the vital structure of the cereal populations of the meadow Agrostis diluta and the steppe Psathyrostachys caespitosa during long-term studies (2007–2013 and 2007–2016, respectively) is heterogeneous. In unfavorable humidification conditions, we characterize years as depressive. Under favorable conditions of humidification, they quickly turn into thriving plants. In addition to the weather of the vegetation periods, habitat specificity affects the vitality of species populations that differ in ecological and coenotic characteristics. The Q quality index and IVC correspond to each other by year and form a clear descending order during the transition from a thriving to a depressive state. Currently, the vital state of the populations of both species is satisfactory. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Wed, 15 Dec 2021 13:00:00 +020
Microlepidoptera of Omsk Region (Russia). Communication 2. Families:
Eriocraniidae, Nepticulidae, Opostegidae, Adelidae, Prodoxidae,
Incurvariidae, Psychidae, Tineidae, Roeslerstammiidae, Bucculatricidae,
Yponomeutidae, Argyresthiidae, Plutellidae, Acrolepiidae,
Glyphipterigidae, Ypsolophidae, Lyonetiidae, Bedelliidae, Elachistidae,
Parametriotidae, Scythrididae, Momphidae, Blastobasidae, Batrachedridae,
Cosmopterigidae, Epermeniidae, Choreutidae
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 467-490
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e77964
  Authors : Sergey Yu. Sinev, Svyatoslav A. Knyazev : The second сommunication on the Microlepidoptera fauna of Omsk Region of Russia includes information about 115 species. Most part of them is new to the regional fauna. The list includes 14 species recorded from the Asian part of Russia for the first time, among them Opostega salaciella (Treitschke, 1833), Myrmecozela ochraceella (Tengström, 1848), Bucculatrix ulmella Zeller, 1848, Euhyponomeutoides ribesiellus (Joannis, 1900), Glyphipterix equitella (Scopoli, 1763), Mendesia farinella (Thunberg, 1794), Elachista humilis Zeller, 1850, Elachista littoricola Le Marchand, 1938, Elachista pollutella Duponchel, 1843, Elachista pullicomella Zeller, 1839, Biselachista albidella (Nylander, 1848), Scythris flavilaterella (Fuchs, 1886), Pyroderces argyrogrammos (Zeller, 1847), Epermenia iniquella (Wocke, 1867). HTML PDF
  PubDate: Sat, 11 Dec 2021 11:00:00 +020
Syntaxonomic and ecological peculiarities of extra-zonal pine forests with
participation of Acer negundo L. from the forest-steppe and steppe zones
of Altai Krai (South-Eastern Siberia)
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 451-466
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e77770
  Authors : Natalya V. Ovcharova, Nikolai B. Ermakov, Marina M. Silantyeva : The syntaxonomic analysis of pine forests with Acer negundo occurring on fluvio-glacial sandy deposits of Altai Krai (South-East Siberia) was made based on 93 releves. It was established that Acer negundo takes a different phytocenotic part in 2 associations, 2 variants, and 6 no-ranked communities of 4 classes and 4 orders according to the Braun-Blanquet approach. The method of detrended correspondence analysis (DCA coordination) implemented in the DECORANA software package was used to confirm the ecological and floristic integrity of the identified vegetation units. New data on the spatial syntaxa distributions depend on the complex humidity gradient, soil fertility, and anthropogenic factors. Acer negundo is most abundant and common in the communities of the Brachypodio-Betuletea pendulae class, which are characterized by habitats with moderate moistening and greater soil fertility. In the spatial series considered, according to the soil fertility and humidity gradients, we observe an increase in Acer negundo in the Vicia sylvatica – Pinus sylvestris community and an increase in the activity of mesophytes and mesohygrophytes that are more demanding to soil fertility. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Fri, 10 Dec 2021 14:00:00 +020
First record of Lycoperdina succincta (Linnaeus, 1767) (Coleoptera,
Endomychidae) from Kazakhstan
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 441-450
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e77663
  Authors : Izbasar I. Temreshev : Handsome fungus beetle Lycoperdina succincta (Linnaeus, 1767) from the family Endomychidae is the first recorded from Kazakhstan (North Kazakhstan, Akmola, and North Kazakhstan regions and South-East Kazakhstan, Almaty region). The finds of L. succincta from the Almaty region of Kazakhstan are currently the southernmost localities for this species and a new record for Central Asia. Coprinus comatus (O.F. Müller) Persoon, 1797, Tulostoma volvulatum I.G. Borshchov, 1865, Bovistella utriformis (Bulliard) Demoulin & Rebriev, 2017 and Tricholoma terreum (Schaeffer) P. Kummer, 1871 for L. succincta were recorded from Lazakhstan also. A key to determining the known genera and species of Endomychidae from Kazakhstan is given. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 9 Dec 2021 11:00:00 +0200
A study on plant preferences of red panda (Ailurus fulgens) in the wild
habitat: foundation for the conservation of the species
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 425-439
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e71816
  Authors : Bhupen Roka, Alankar K. Jha, Dhani Raj Chhetri : The red panda is a lesser carnivore that has adapted to the herbivore diet and is distributed in the Himalayan and Hengduan mountain ranges. The study conducted on red panda in Singalila National Park recorded the highest encounter of the species within the altitude of 2800 to 3200 meters in the broad leaf deciduous and broad leaf coniferous forest. 22.22% of direct sightings of red pandas occurred on plant species belonging to the family Fagaceae and were followed by the family Ericaceae (18.52%). The plant species mostly preferred by the red panda in Singalila National Park were Lithocarpus pachyphyllus, Rhododendron arboreum, Abies densa, and Betulia utilis. During all seasons, the dominant plants found in the red panda pellets were Arundinaria maling and Arundinaria aristata. The distribution of the red panda is influenced by the presence of the preferred plant species, therefore, through this studies effort has been made to document the plant species used by the red panda in the wild habitat. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Wed, 8 Dec 2021 14:00:00 +0200
Status and life strategy of Orchis punctulata Steven ex Lindl.
(Orchidaceae) in the South-Eastern Crimea
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 407-423
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e70771
  Authors : Viktoria Yu. Letukhova, Irina L. Potapenko : This article presents the results of the population studies of rare protected species Orchis punctulata (Orchidaceae). Based on analysis of local floras in eastern and southeastern Crimea and personal observations, we identified the three most numerous populations of O. punctulata: two in the steppe (on the Tepe-Oba mountain ridge) and one in forest communities (on the Kiziltash mountain ridge). The ontogenetic, demographic, and vitality structures of the populations were studied. We also assessed the life strategies of the species in different habitats. The populations in steppe communities were characterized by high number and density parameters. O. punctulate often formed large clusters and was dominated here. A small number and low density characterized the population in the forest community; the distribution of individuals within the population was scattered. The age spectra were also different. The populations in steppe communities had a left-sided spectrum with a maximum in immature individuals, while in forest communities, it had a bimodal spectrum with maximums in generative (with a predominance of mature and old generative) and immature individuals. Specimens from forest communities were more extensive than those of steppe communities, they had longer leaves and inflorescences, and their inflorescences had a more significant number of flowers. As a result, the population in the forest community had a higher vitality index. It included individuals of the highest and middle class of vitality. The populations in the steppe community consisted of all classes of vitality or only of middle and lower classes. Thus, optimal environmental conditions for the growth of species are in forests. At the same time, a low level of regeneration and competition from other plants hinder its wide distribution. As a result, the species exserts as a phytocenotic patient (S-strategy). In steppe communities, the species is characterized by a mixed patient-explerant-violant strategy (SRC strategy). HTML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 7 Dec 2021 14:00:00 +0200
A natural bacterial strain Bacillus pumilus 16: Identification and
antibiotic resistance evaluation
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 391-406
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e78412
  Authors : Alena N. Irkitova, Angelina V Malkova, Dina E. Dudnik : Microbial biopreparations are actively used to prevent, diagnose, and treat infectious, allergic, tumor, and autoimmune diseases in humans and animals; to stimulate the growth and development of plant crops. Natural bacterial strains with valuable technical properties are a vital biological resource for developing new biopreparations and rotating already known microbial preparations in the world market. This study describes a new natural strain B. pumilus 16, which was isolated from the rhizosphere of Cichorium. The strain was identified using morphological and physiological parameters, biochemical tests, and primers Pum-f. and Pum-r. Antibiotic sensitivity and antagonistic activity against Escherichia coli were determined by diffusion of discs and delayed antagonism methods, respectively. The new natural strain (like type strains) fermented arabinose, cellobiose, mannitol, mannose, salicin, sucrose, and trehalose, and gave a positive reaction to arginine dihydrolase, ONPG, Voges-Proskauer test. It also gave a negative reaction to inositol, raffinose, sorbitol, methyl-D-glucoside, inulin, and lecithinase. B. pumilus 16, unlike the test strains, was capable of fermenting citrate. Strain B. pumilus 16 was highly sensitive to cephalexin (37.9±0.7 mm) and enrofloxacin (25.7±8.9 mm); sensitive to ole-andomycin (17.1±1.9 mm), benzylpenicillin (18.5±1.2 mm), and monomycin (16.0±0.6 mm); resist-ant to oxacillin. By the agar blocks method (7.3±1.5 mm), a more pronounced antagonism of the new strain against E. coli was recorded than by the method of agar wells (5.3±0.6 mm). Due to the level of antagonistic activity, B. pumilus 16 was more effective than the type strains (two of which did not show an antagonistic effect). On the basis of this, the new strain can be recommended for inclusion in the bacterial preparation composition for the national economy. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 6 Dec 2021 14:00:00 +0200
Anatomy of the leaf blades of Waldsteinia ternata (Stephan) Fritsch
(Rosaceae) grown under different light conditions
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 381-390
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e75406
  Authors : Tatiana N. Belaeva, Alina N. Butenkova : The paper reports the results of a comparative study of the anatomical structures of the leaf blades of Waldsteinia ternata grown under different light conditions in the Siberian Botanical Garden of Tomsk State University. Waldsteinia ternata is a tertiary nemoral relict from the mountains of southern Siberia, which is found in a limited number of taiga communities due to narrow environmental tolerance to various factors. The species remains poorly studied; comprehensive studies of the anatomical features of its leaves have not been performed on the territory of Russia. Leaves of W. ternata are dorsoventral and amphistomatous with anomocytic type stomata. The plants are classified as mesophytes. The relationship between the development of the anatomical structure of leaves and light conditions was revealed. The W. ternata plants grown in the sun showed an increased number of stomata and epidermal cells, an increased thickness of the leaf and mesophyll, and an increased number of cells of the upper and lower epidermis, that is, the plants exhibited heliophytic features of plant adaptation to good light conditions. At the same time, the vascular tissues of the plants grown in the sun were less developed, which reflected their adaptation to unfavorable water conditions. A number of relative indicators, such as the stomatal index of the lower epidermis, the ratio of the palisade to spongy mesophyll, and the ratio of xylem to phloem, did not change under different growth conditions. Thus, under different light and water conditions, W. ternata acquires helioxeromorphic or sciomesomorphic features. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 22 Nov 2021 06:00:00 +020
Some rare plant species in the Aktolagay cretaceous massif (Republic of
Kazakhstan): the characteristics of populations
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 363-379
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e72819
  Authors : Yaroslav M. Golovanov, Аlfiya N. Mustafina, Larisa M. Abramova, Zinnur Kh. Shigapov : Cretaceous massifs of the Eurasian continent are unique not only for their geological features but also for the peculiar flora. Therefore, the identification and study of the biodiversity of these unique objects is currently an actual task. Comprehensive studies of the flora and vegetation of the Aktolagay cretaceous massif (Republic of Kazakhstan) were carried out in 2019. One of the study aspects was the consideration of the ecological and biological features of several plant species typical for this territory. The research is devoted to the study of five plant species: Astragalus lasiophyllus Lеdеb., Astragalus vulpinus Willd., Matthiola tatarica (Pall.) DC., Eremurus inderiensis (M. Bieb.) Regel, Tragopogon ruber S.G. Gmel. The coenopopulations (CP) of the species are located in the lower parts of the slopes, as well as in aligned areas at the foot on cretaceous substrates, and on sandstone soils. The total density of the studied CPs varies from 2.2 to 6.6 ind./m2, the effective density varies from 1.6 to 4.9 ind./m2. The studied coenopopulations belong to normal incomplete ones. The most typical feature is the absence of seedlings, juvenile and senile individuals in the spectrum, while the peak falls on mature generative individuals, in the Mattiolla tatarica coenopopulations – on virginile individuals. Coenopopulations differ in their type ("delta-omega" criterion): the Matthiola tatarica one is young, the CP of Astragalus lasiophyllus is transitional, the CPs of Astragalus vulpinus and Eremurus inderiensis are maturing, and the CP of Tragogon ruber is mature. The recruitment index is high in the CP of Matthiola tatarica (3.05), in the rest of the CPs it is not higher than one (0.36-0.82), the ageing index is equal or close to zero (0.00–0.10). Most morphometric features show the low levels of variability and plasticity. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Fri, 19 Nov 2021 10:00:00 +020
Phytoliths from some grasses (Poaceae) in arid lands of Xinjiang, China
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 345-361
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e76105
  Authors : Marina V. Olonova, Polina D. Gudkova, Valeria D. Shiposha, Elizaveta A. Kriuchkova, Natalia S. Mezina, Mikhail Blinnikov : Opal phytoliths, as silicon dioxide inclusions, are abundant in different parts of a plant. It is known that grasses are the most representative in this respect. The research of phytoliths, removed from 25 most common grass species in the arid and semiarid lands of the Junggar Basin and adjacent areas, has been undertaken. The visual estimation of diversity and variability of silica cells and identification of their morphological types (patterns) were also the aim of our research. Since the work is preliminary, we have emphasized on the visual estimation of silica cell variability and involved only the leaf blades in the analysis. Drawings of the revealed silica cells, characteristic of 25 species, are provided. The sig-nificant morphological diversity of phytoliths has been revealed, as well as their taxonomic similarity at the level of subfamilies. These data can be used for the identification of phytoliths from sediments. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 16 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +020
Morphologic variability of the Acer campestre L. populations in Bosnia and
Herzegovina
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 327-343
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e73001
  Authors : Stjepan Kvesić, Mirzeta Memišević Hodžić, Matijaž Čater, Dalibor Ballian : Morphologic variability from 25 populations of Acer campestre L. in Bosnia and Herzegovina was analyzed. Morphometric structure of variability and between-population variability was performed based on 10 fruit-parameter characteristics and 19 leaf-parameter characteristics using multivariate statistical analysis. Results confirmed the separation of three submediterranean populations as a group in relation to other tested populations, from which the Banja Luka population is different. Measured leaf parameters were confirmed as a predominant carrier of the morphologic separation between populations. In other Acer species populations within A. monspessulanum and A. intermedium species are separated mainly by fruit and much less by leaf parameters. The southernmost submediterranean populations from Trebinje, Ljubuški, and Mostar regions have smaller leaf areas, which consequently places them within the same morphologic group; their variability is in tight connection with eco-geo-graphical factors, where the ecological distance is a much better predictor of morphological variability compared to geographical distance. The air temperature had the biggest influence on morphological variability regarding the highest in-between correlation. Achieved results may serve for the continuation of the research in other areas of Acer campestre to determine the interactive effect of ecological, geographical, climatic, and migrational factors on their morphologic population plasticity. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 15 Nov 2021 10:00:00 +020
Record of hill stream catfish Glyptothorax telchitta (Hamilton-Buchanan,
1822) from Paschim Medinipur district, West Bengal, India
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 317-325
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e70963
  Authors : Arun Jana, Godhuli Sit, Angsuman Chanda : Glyptothorax telchitta (Hamilton-Buchanan, 1822) is a benthic hill-stream Sisoroid catfish that inhabits the mountain waters of the Indian Himalayas and in China, Tibet and the Sunda Islands. It is also a common hill stream catfish of the northern region of West Bengal. The present work reveals that the species is available in the Shilabati river basin, Ghatal, Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal. Therefore, Glyptothorax telchitta (Hamilton-Buchanan, 1822) is a widely distributed hill stream species and extends to the lowland area of Paschim Medinipur district of West Bengal, India. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Fri, 15 Oct 2021 08:00:01 +030
New data on the fauna of casebearer moths (Lepidoptera, Coleophoridae) of
Omsk Province, Russia
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 307-316
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e73965
  Authors : Vasily V. Anikin, Svyatoslav A. Knyazev : The information on the casebearer moth family Coleophoridae from Omsk Province was summarized based on the determination of materials collected by the second author in 2014-2020. There is a list of 31 species, among them, 21 new regional records from the territory of Omsk Province are given. Two species (Casignetella occatella (Staudinger, 1880) and Ecebalia proterella (Wikström et Tabell, 2016) are new to the Asian part of Russia. The total number of Coleophoridae from Omsk Province is increased to 55. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Fri, 15 Oct 2021 08:00:00 +030
Phenology and diurnal behavior of common shelduck Tadorna tadorna at
Sebkhet Bazer (El-Eulma, Nouth-East of Hauts Plateaux, Algeria)
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 293-306
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e68903
  Authors : Leila Bouaguel, Nabil Charchar, Moussa Houhamdi : This work aims to study phenology and daytime budget of common shelduck Tadorna tadorna (Anatidae) for two wintering seasons (2017/2018, 2018/2019) at Sebkhet Bazer (El-Eulma) North-East of Algeria from September to March. The obtained results show that common shelduck has the status of a wintering species. It was observed presently in the site during the study period. Common shelduck numbers begin to increase from the first decade of September to reach the maximums between late December and early January, where we had recorded the peaks of abundance 840 for the first season and 930 for the second. During our monitoring, budget time results showed that feeding is the dominant activity (surface water feeding, feeding on banks, and feeding by tipping), which take a ratio of more than 68%, the second activity is swimming with 18.71%, followed by preening which holds 9.14%, sleeping activity with a ratio of 2.38%, flight take the five range with a ratio of 0.82%. Finally, courtship and agonistic behavior recorded the lowest ratio on all budget time – 0.42% and 0.38% respectively. We can conclude that Sebkhet Bazer is a diurnal grazing ground for this Anatidae species. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 12 Oct 2021 08:35:00 +030
First data on long-legged flies (Diptera, Dolichopodidae) of the
Onezhskoye Pomorye National Park (Arkhangelsk Region, Russia)
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 283-292
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e62610
  Authors : Alexei Polevoi, Igor Grichanov : The fauna of Dolichopodidae in the Arkhangelsk Region was studied sporadically and currently in-cludes 50 species. Onezhskoye Pomorye National Park (Arkhangelsk Region, Russia) was established in 2013 to protect the pristine forests and coastal ecosystems of the hardly accessible territories along the White Sea coast of the Onega Peninsula. The insect fauna of the National Park was almost un-known until recently, with only 17 Diptera species from the Culicidae and Chironomidae families listed in the online cadaster. During the short expedition to Onezhskoye Pomorye National Park in July–August 2020, more than 350 Dolichopodidae specimens were collected with yellow pan traps and sweep netting on routes that mainly passed through coastal habitats. Nineteen species of Dolichopodi-dae have been reported for the first time from this territory. Thirteen species are reported for the first time from the Arkhangelsk region, bringing the total number of known species to 63. The species list is given and supplied with brief comments on habitat and distribution. Photos of some typical habitats are provided. Most of the discovered species are widespread throughout the Palaearctic Region. Rarer species include Dolichopus diadema, which probably represents a southern Palaearctic element, and Hydrophorus norvegicus, which was previously known only from Fennoscandia. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Wed, 6 Oct 2021 08:00:00 +0300
Identification and characterization of hybrids of Acipenser ruthenus and
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 261-282
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e67157
  Authors : Elizaveta Liberman, Andrey Chemagin, Gleb Volosnikov, Oxana Zhigileva : Two sturgeon species, Acipenser ruthenus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Acipenser baerii (Brandt, 1869), inhabit the Irtysh basin. In 2018, we received some “atypical” specimens of sturgeon, which were similar to A. ruthenus but had a number of pronounced external differences. The hybrids A. ruthenus × A. baerii, named “oster”, can sometimes be caught in natural habitats in the Ob and the Yenisei rivers. Despite the development of methods for the genetic identification of sturgeons, the molecular genetic characteristics of the hybrids of A. baerii and A. ruthenus have not been carried out. The purpose of this study is to develop a complex of morphological and genetic characters to identify the hybrid of A. ruthenus and A. baerii from the Irtysh River. We used a complex of morphological and genetic methods to compare the putative hybrids with parental species The putative hybrids were similar to A. ruthenus in the number of dorsal scutes, the number of rays in the dorsal and anal fins, the structure of stamens on the first gill arch, and the presence of fringe on the tendrils. The hybrids were similar to A. baerii in size and weight values, the structure of dorsal scutes, the number of lateral and ventral scutes, and the number of gill rakers on the first gill arch. Genotyping of putative hybrids by using the Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers revealed the presence of sites characteristic of both parental species. The fragment of the control region of mitochondrial DNA in the hybrids matched to that of A. baerii that allowed us to identify females of A. baerii as maternal individuals of the hybrids. Possible causes and factors promoting interspecific hybridization of A. ruthenus and A. baerii were studied. This is the first described fact of the appearance of sturgeon hybrids in the Ob-Irtysh basin. It is necessary to continue monitoring studies to identify the number of these hybrids in the ecological system of the Irtysh River. The data set of morphological characters and genetic methods can be used to identify the hybrids of A. ruthenus and A. baerii. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 4 Oct 2021 08:00:00 +0300
Effect of global climate change on the distribution of Anchomenus dorsalis
(Coleoptera, Carabidae) in Europe
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 237-260
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e72409
  Authors : Viktor Brygadyrenko, Tamara Avtaeva, Alex Matsyura : Shifts in the bioclimatic range of Anchomenus dorsalis – specialized entomophage – were modeled in the MaxEntsoftware package and are presented on habitat maps. For the prediction, we used two climatic scenarios – mild (RCP2.6) and extreme (RCP8.5). Under the considered scenarios, the further warming would lead to shift and extension of the range to the north, northeast and east and decrease in the number of populations in the southern regions of Europe. The most important bioclimatic indicators which describe the geographic distribution of A. dorsalis are mean annual air temperature, mean daily amplitude of temperature for each month, overall amount of precipitations in the coldest quarter of the year, minimum temperature of the coldest month, mean temperature of the warmest quarter of the year, and annual amount of precipitations. Global warming causes the bioclimatic range of A. dorsalis to shift northeast and east in intracontinental territories, and west and northwest on islands. This species of ground beetle is an important object in monitoring of the condition of natural and agrarian ecosystems, sensitive to the growing global climate changes. Poikilothermic animals may suffer from overheating, and even if they live far in the northern hemisphere, the ability of their organism to withstand increase in the environmental temperature is limited. Mild winters (with higher temperatures) may increase the mortality of A. dorsalis by exhausting their energy reserves. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Wed, 8 Sep 2021 17:46:00 +0300
Distribution of ground beetles of the genus Bembidion (Coleoptera,
Carabidae) in the agricultural landscape in Northwestern Russia
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 227-236
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e70229
  Authors : Olga G. Guseva, Alexander G. Koval : We have observed seven species of predator beetles of the genus Bembidion in the agricultural landscape of the Leningrad Region (Northwestern Russia) between the years 2008 and 2018. These species reach their highest abundance in sun-exposed areas, especially mesophilic B. quadrimaculatum Linnaeus, 1761, B. properans (Stephens, 1828), B. lampros (Herbst, 1784), and B. femoratum Sturm, 1825. A few mesohygrophilic B. guttula (Fabricius, 1792) and B. gilvipes (Sturm, 1825) live primarily in areas of dense vegetation. Finally, the hygrophilic B. bruxellense (Wesmael, 1835) was only observed on the most humid soils. Assemblages of Bembidion ground beetles were separated in the fields, field boundaries, and adjacent habitats. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 6 Sep 2021 17:46:00 +0300
New records of geometrid moths of the subfamily Ennominae (Lepidoptera:
Geometridae) from the Amurskaya Oblast, Russian Far East
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 219-226
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e70083
  Authors : Aleksandr A. Kuzmin, Evgeny A Beljaev : Eleven species of geometrid moths from the subfamily Ennominae (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) are reported for the first time from Amurskaya Oblast at the extreme northwestern limit of the distribution of mixed broadleaved – Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis) forests, at a great distance from their closest habitats in Khabarovsky Krai and Primorsky Krai, Russian Far East: Eilicrinia nuptaria Bremer, 1864, Eudjakonovia emundata (Christoph, 1881), Menophra senilis (Butler, 1878), Ectropis excellens (Butler, 1884), Ectropis aigneri Prout, 1930, Mesastrape fulguraria (Walker, 1860), Arichanna tetrica (Butler, 1878), Agriopis dira (Butler, 1878), Larerannis orthogrammaria (Wehrli, 1927), Phigalia verecundaria (Leech, 1897), and Phanerothyris sinearia (Guenée, 1858). HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Fri, 27 Aug 2021 08:00:01 +030
Potentilla × angarensis Popov (Rosaceae Juss.) – a new taxon
for the Oka-Don Lowland
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 211-218
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e62533
  Authors : Alexey A. Kechaykin, Anna B. Bedenko, Vladimir A. Agafonov : A new locality of the taxon from the genus Potentilla, endemic to the flora of Russia and Kazakhstan, was discovered in Eastern Europe. Previously, P. × angarensis was recorded for the European part of Russia based on collections from Moscow Region and the Republic of Udmurtia. The paper reports the first record of this hybrid for the Oka-Don Lowland, which was found in the northeast of the Voronezh Region. The main morphological characters of the hybridogenic taxon, which distinguish it from closely related species, are listed. The general distribution of P. × angarensis is specified. An image of the herbarium specimen of the new record is presented. HTML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 23 Aug 2021 12:00:01 +030
Leaf morphological and anatomical structure of pregenerative individuals
of Ferula tadshikorum in ex situ conditions
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 193-210
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e63714
  Authors : Dilovar T. Khamraeva, Nina V. Grabovec, Rainer W Bussmann, Olim K. Khojimatov : For the first time, the morphological and anatomical structures of the leaves of different age individuals of the medicinal and rare species F. tadshikorum were studied in Tashkent Botanical Garden. Currently, natural populations of the species are in decline, and for the preservation and production of medicinal raw materials, research on the ex situ development conditions is needed. According to the results, adaptive responses to new habitat conditions in the anatomical structures of the vegetative organs were found. Plants of juvenile and immature development stages retained the the mesophyll's isolateral-palisade type, but differed in other quantitative and qualitative indicators of leaf tissues. Immature plants of the second year of life with more developed leaves showed modifications in the anatomical structure of the leaves, with powerfully developed vascular bundles, mechanical tissue, secretory ducts, as well as the presence of deep fibers both above the phloem of peripheral bundles, and also above the phloem of the central bundles of the petiole. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 8 Jul 2021 16:47:00 +0300
A check-list of Geometridae (Insecta, Lepidoptera) of the Tyumen Region of
Russia
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 149-191
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e68664
  Authors : Svyatoslav A. Knyazev, Dmitry E. Galich : A list of 247 species of Geometrid moths from 5 subfamilies (Archiearinae – 3 species, Ennominae – 70 species, Geometrinae – 9 species, Larentiinae – 132 species, Sterrhinae – 33 species) from the territory of Tyumen Region (including Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug and Khanty-Mansy Autunomous Okrug) is given. 86 species are reported for the first time. The historical overview of the Geometridae study in the Tyumen Region provided. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 5 Jul 2021 16:47:00 +0300
New data on the location of the snow leopard Panthera uncia (Schreber,
1775) and the stone marten Martes foina (Erxleben, 1777) in the
Katon-Karagai State National Natural Park (Kazakhstan Altai)
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 142-148
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e69228
  Authors : Aliya U. Gabdullina, Zhomart B. Amanbaev, Erik T. Kasymov : The article provides new data on the location and distribution of the snow leopard Panthera uncia and the stone marten Martes foina in the Katon-Karagai State National Natural Park (South-Western Altai, Eastern Kazakhstan). The data were obtained using camera traps. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 10 Jun 2021 16:49:00 +030
New and unpublished data about Bulgarian ground beetles from the tribes
Pterostichini, Sphodrini and Platynini (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 125-141
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e67015
  Authors : Teodora Teofilova : Bulgarian ground beetle (Coleoptera, Carabidae) fauna is relatively well studied but there are still many species and regions in the country which are not well researched. The present study aims at complementing the data about the distribution of the carabids from the tribes Pterostichini, Sphodrini, and Platynini, containing many diverse, interesting, and endemic species. It gives new records for 67 species and 23 zoogeographical regions in Bulgaria. The material was collected in the period from 1926 to 2021 through different sampling methods. Twenty-three species are recorded for the first time in different regions. Six species are reported for the second time in the regions where they were currently collected. Thirty-one species have not been reported for more than 20 years in Eastern and Middle Stara Planina Mts., Kraishte region, Boboshevo-Simitli valley, Sandanski-Petrich valley, Lyulin Mts., Vitosha Mts., Rila Mts., Pirin Mts., Slavyanka Mts., Thracian Lowland, and Sakar-Tundzha region. New altitude ranges are established for six of the species. The results contribute to the knowledge of the Bulgarian carabid fauna. Currently, 56 species of Pterostichini, 23 species of Sphodrini, and 36 species of Platynini are known from Bulgaria. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 20 May 2021 16:55:00 +030
A list of Sphingidae (Lepidoptera) of Azerbaijan
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 103-124
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e56707
  Authors : Nataly Yu. Snegovaya, Valeri A. Petrov : A list of 31 species of hawk moths from the territory of Azerbaijan is given, based on collection materials from the Institute of Zoology of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (Baku) and the Georgian National Museum (Tbilisi). Distribution maps for 27 species are provided. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 20 May 2021 16:55:00 +030
Weed Species Composition of Agrophytocenoses in Altai Krai
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 93-102
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e60884
  Authors : Tatiana A. Terekhina, Alyona V. Nochevnaya, Natalia V. Ovcharova, Irina A. Lapshina : The article reviews the weed species composition of oat, sunflower, wheat, buckwheat, rapeseed and flax agrophytocenoses on 390 fields in 21 districts of Altai Krai: Aleyskiy, Bistroistokskiy, Baevskiy, Burlinskiy, Kamenskiy, Kosikhinskiy, Krutikhinskiy, Kytmanovskiy, Loktevskiy, Mamontovskiy, Novichikhinskiy, Pankrushikhinskiy, Rebrikhinskiy, Rubtsovskiy, Shipunovskiy, Sovetskiy, Tretyakovskiy, Troitskiy, Tyumentsevskiy, Zarinskiy, and Zonalniy. The studied fields were surveyed by the route method, which involved the study of the plot by examining it along two diagonals and four sides, when the area did not exceed 20.0 hectares. Larger fields were divided into plots of 20.0 hectares before the survey. The areas adjacent to roads were examined most carefully, since it is often from the road that the field becomes infested. We used the ArcGis program to compile original maps for the main weed plant species. It was found that out of 45 species encountered, only 10 play a significant role in weed infestation and have a high frequency rate: aboriginal Convolvulus arvensis, Amaranthus retroflexus, Euphorbia virgata, Lathyrus tuberosus, Chenopodium album, as well as such adventive species as Fallopia convolvulus, Setaria pumila, Panicum miliaceum subsp. ruderale, Avena fatua and Echinochloa crusgalli. The largest number of species accounts for the Poaceae family (33.3%). The Brassicaceae family is characterized by a slightly lower percentage of participation in the adventitious flora (27.7%). Other families are not so well represented (by 1-2 species each). HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Fri, 30 Apr 2021 11:23:00 +030
The genus Thalictrum species as promising medicinal plants of the Tomsk
region (Western Siberia)
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 87-92
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e67078
  Authors : Anna N. Nekratova, Nadezhda S. Zinner, Anastasia V. Shchukina : The genus Thalictrum species (Ranunculaceae) are of interest for study as medicinal plants that are promising for expanding the gene pool and treating socially significant diseases. The data of the analysis of more than 100 geobotanical descriptions obtained in 2010-2017 were used to study the coenotic complexes of Thalictrum minus and Thalictrum simplex growing in Tomsk region and to determine their ecological-coenotic confinement. The aim of our research was to study the species of the genus Thalictrum growing in Tomsk region, their distribution and use in medicine, to investigate the coenotic complex, and to determine the ecological-coenotic confinement of Thalictrum minus L. and Thalictrum simplex L. growing in Tomsk region. The coenotic complex of Thalictrum minus includes 146 species. Thalictrum minus is the reserve of raw materials of Category II, which are identified in species confined to coenoses of different synanthropic degree, where they grow abundantly. The coenotic complex of Thalictrum simplex in Tomsk region includes 62 species. Thalictrum simplex is the reserve of raw materials of Category II. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 22 Apr 2021 17:30:00 +030
Biological features of high altitude rare medicinal plant species
Hedysarum theinum Krasnob. in Western Siberia cultivation
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 77-85
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e67122
  Authors : Nadezhda S. Zinner, Anna N. Nekratova, Anastasia V. Shchukina, Alina L. Kovaleva : The paper summarizes the results of a long-term introduction study of a rare alpine plant Hedysarum theinum Krasnob., which is widely used in medicine. We found that the species demonstrates sufficiently high seed productivity with adequate agrotechnical care under introduction conditions. Nevertheless, there were cases of a single lack of fruiting, which cannot be considered a reaction to different ecological conditions since these phenomena can also be observed in natural habitats; most likely, this is a feature of the reproductive biology of the species. The phenological characteristics, seed productivity, and seed germination of the species are given, and the range of variation in signs of the vegetative and generative spheres is established. The introduction assessment indicates high plasticity and a high degree of the species adaptation. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Thu, 22 Apr 2021 17:30:00 +030
Distribution of Acer negundo L. in Altai Krai (Russia, Southern Siberia)
and its coenotic role in pine forests
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 63-76
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e62111
  Authors : Marina M. Silantyeva, Natalia V. Ovcharova, Tatiana A. Terekhina, Anastasia O. Nesterova, Natalia V. Elesova, Tatyana V. Kornievskaya, Natalia Yu. Speranskaya : The article provides data on the distribution of the invasive boxelder maple in the Altai Krai. The article specifically considers its coenotic role in pine forests by the example of the Barnaul ribbon pine forest. A GIS project was developed to assess the distribution of boxelder maple in Altai krai. Mapping was based on the species location data obtained from the herbarium material (more than 500 sheets of the herbarium) deposited to the Altai State University (ALTB), the N.I. Vavilov All-Russian Plant Research Institute (WIR) and the V.L. Komarov Botanical Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (LE). To map the boxelder maple distribution, an analysis of the forest stand maps of the Barnaul ribbon pine forest was also carried out (2010, 2018). For each maple location, the stratum, the stratum area, and the stand formula are taken into account. Over the ten-year observation period, the area of maple and mixed forests with the participation of Acer negundo has increased almost 6 times here. Monodominant maple forests and mixed forests with the participation of boxelder maple as well as with other invasive species are formed. This leads to a considerable anthropogenic transformation of pine forests and a decrease in their environment-forming, social-economic and ecological significance. The study reveals that generative plants were not found in every coenopopulation. If the plants reached the reproductive stage, then, on the whole, males prevailed fivefold in the coenopopulation. Most of the studied coenopopulations consisted of pre-generative individuals, with the exception of occasional young generative ones. Most of the trees in the studied populations reached the age of 10–15 years. For forest communities of the Barnaul forestry, two age periods of the ontogenetic state have been established – pre-generative and generative, which indicates a relatively early age of the phytoinvasion and its active stage. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 19 Apr 2021 06:41:40 +030
Plant communities with naturalized Elaeagnus angustifolia L. as a new
vegetation element in Altai Krai (Southwestern Siberia, Russia)
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 49-61
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e58204
  Authors : Alena A. Shibanova, Natalya V. Ovcharova : Elaeagnus angustifolia L. (Russian olive) is a deciduous small tree or large multi-stemmed shrub that becomes invader in different countries all other the world. It is potentially invasive in some regions of Russia. In the beginning of 20th century, it was introduced to the steppe region of Altai Krai (Russia, southwestern Siberia) to prevent wind erosion. During last 20 years, Russian olive starts to create its own natural stands and to influence on native vegetation. This article presents the results of eco-coenotic survey of natural plant communities dominated by Elaeagnus angustifolia L. first described for Siberia and the analysis of their possible syntaxonomic position. The investigation conducted during summer season 2012 in the steppe region of Altai Krai allows revealing one new for Siberia association Elytrigio repentis–Elaeagnetum angustifoliae and no-ranged community Bromopsis inermis–Elaeagnus angustifolia which were included to the Class Nerio–Tamaricetea, to the Order Tamaricetalia ramosissimae. During the study, the following special features of communities have been described: polydominance of herbal layer, anthropogenic and grazing load, variation of the species richness, plant cover and vertical stratification into layers. These peculiarities mostly prove unestablished character of communities, all of them are relatively young (25–30 years). Russian olive shrubberies varies in moisture and saline regime, which connected with their existence in different landforms (lake alluvial plains, gentle slopes of lakes, low lake terraces). HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 13 Apr 2021 06:43:27 +030
New data regarding ecology of freshwater pelagicamphipod Macrohectopus
branickii (Dybowsky, 1874) (Amphipoda: Macrohectopodidae) and other
crustaceans of plankton from the southern part of Lake Baikal (Russia,
Southern Siberia)
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 39-48
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e65636
  Authors : Dmitry Yu. Karnaukhov, Ekaterina M. Dolinskaya, Sofya A. Biritskaya, Maria A. Teplykh, Yana K. Ermolaeva, Viktoria A. Pushnica, Iya V. Kuznetsova, Anastasia I. Okholina, Lidia B. Bukhaeva, Olga O. Rusanovskaya, Eugene A. Silow : In this study, we present a list of crustaceans traced in plankton of the southern basin Lake Baikal in addition to some details regarding ecological peculiarities of the only known freshwater pelagic amphipod Macrohectopus branickii. The amphipod is an active predator among major parts of the Lake Baikal food chain. Its role in the lake’s ecosystem is similar to that of Antarctic krill and mysids in Europe and North America water bodies. As an active swimmer, M. branickii performs daily vertical migrations. Besides, the species also has horizontal migrations and migrating swarms, including time during breeding period, that hamper species studies. We were interested in clarify some features of the species ecology. As a material we used samples obtained in the 0 to 250 m water layer with a plankton Juday net every 7 to 10 days from 2013 until 2018 as a part of long-term ecological monitoring project of Lake Baikal pelagial. Sampling was conducted in the southern part of the lake off the shore of Bolshie Koty Village. The results showed the presence of one peak of young during breeding period, which is at its maximum in May. The maximum of the 1 to 6 mm group containing young individuals and males occurs in July, and during the same period, a slight increase in immature females in comparison with the first group can also be seen. This finding might be directly linked to the warming trend in Lake Baikal. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Mon, 12 Apr 2021 12:15:50 +030
An orchid (Orchidaceae)-rich area recommended for preservation in
Novosibirsk Region, Russia
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 21-38
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e63131
  Authors : Alexander Dubynin, Inessa Selyutina, Alexandra Egorova, Mikhail Blinnikov : The spatial distribution of 14 species of the orchid family (Orchidaceae) was studied at the left bank of the Koynikha River (Iskitimskiy District, Novosibirsk Region, Russia). Four species are listed in the Russian Federation Red Data Book, four are listed in the Novosibirsk Region Red Data Book. The number of individual plants is sufficient to ensure the long-term viability of each red-listed orchid population. What is apparently one of the largest populations of Cypripedium macranthos in the region is described (up to 5,000 individuals). Some of the orchids discovered require further study, namely interspecific hybrids of Dactylorhiza and Gymnadenia and distinctive floral developmental morphs of Platanthera. Аpplying the international criteria for allocation of an “Important Plant Area”, we nominate a new one for South Siberia. Based on the analysis of plant species composition of protected areas in Novosibirsk Region, we conclude that in situ preservation of orchids in the region is overall insufficient. It is therefore necessary to organize a new protected area “Orchid Zapovednik” in the category of “botanical Zakaznik” on 335 hectares with an explicit floral diversity conservation mandate and long-term orchid population monitoring. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Wed, 7 Apr 2021 08:19:16 +0300
First record of soft-winged flower beetles (Coleoptera, Malachiidae) in a
late Pleistocene deposit from West Siberia with a review of known
Quaternary data
- Abstract: Acta Biologica Sibirica 7: 1-19
  DOI : 10.3897/abs.7.e60615
  Authors : Sergei E. Tshernyshev, Roman Yu. Dudko, Anna A. Gurina, Andrei A. Legalov : Soft-winged flower beetles (Coleoptera, Malachiidae), Apalochrus femoralis pallipes Motschulsky, 1860 and Ebaeus Erichson, 1840 species, are recorded for the first time from Quaternary fossils in the deposit Ustyanka-1 near Ustyanka river, the right tributary of Alei river in Altaiskii Krai, West Siberia, Russia. The strata containing malachiid fragments belong to the warm phase of the late glacial succession. It is shown that soft-winged flower beetles are typical of Holocene deposits and practically unknown from cold phases of the Pleistocene, except in the case of Protapalochrus Evers, 1987 which has been recorded from the Pleistocene. Illustrations of the external appearance of both male and female of the beetles, and sub-fossil remains of Apalochrus femoralis pallipes Motschulsky, 1860 and three species from the Ebaeus rufipes-group distributed in the region are given, together with details of their position within the Ustyanka-1 deposit. Data on the Malachiidae in Quaternary deposits of the Northern Hemisphere are briefly reviewed. HTML XML PDF
  PubDate: Tue, 12 Jan 2021 09:22:43 +020