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CHARACTERISTICS OF PLANTS IN THE GREEN COVER OF THE
DRIED BASE OF THE ARAL SEA
Madraimov Rustamjon Matkarimovich
2nd year master's student of the specialty "Ecology (agriculture) " of
Karakalpakstan Institute of Agriculture and Agrotechnologies
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16157489
Abstract
. The drying of the Aral Sea has led to one of the world’s most
significant ecological disasters. In recent decades, efforts to stabilize the
environment of the dried seabed have resulted in the emergence of a green
cover composed of various plant species. This article examines the
characteristics, ecological roles, and adaptive strategies of plant species
colonizing the former seabed. Furthermore, it explores the significance of these
plants in combating desertification, improving soil quality, and supporting
biodiversity.
Keywords:
Aral Sea, green cover, halophytes, xerophytes, soil stabilization,
plant adaptation, ecological restoration
Introduction.
The Aral Sea, once the fourth-largest inland div of water in
the world, has undergone drastic shrinkage since the 1960s due to massive
water diversion projects. As a result, vast areas of the seabed have been
exposed, leading to severe environmental problems such as salt storms, land
degradation, and loss of biodiversity. However, over time, a green cover has
started to form on the dried base, primarily due to both natural processes and
afforestation projects. This green cover comprises a variety of hardy plant
species capable of withstanding the region’s harsh conditions. In this regard,
understanding the characteristics of these plants is essential for ecological
restoration and sustainable development in the region.
To understand the characteristics of the vegetation, one must first examine
the environment in which these plants are growing. The dried base of the Aral
Sea is characterized by extreme continental climate, high soil salinity, and
frequent dust and salt storms. Furthermore, the soil is poorly structured, lacking
organic matter, and prone to erosion. Despite these challenges, some plant
species have adapted remarkably to this environment. These plants,
predominantly halophytes and xerophytes, have specific physiological and
morphological features that allow them to survive and proliferate [2, 764-768].
The green cover on the dried Aral Sea bed consists primarily of halophytes,
xerophytes, and pioneer species, each contributing to soil stabilization and
ecological restoration. Halophytes are dominant in saline soils of the former
seabed. Key species include Haloxylon aphyllum (saxaul), Salsola arbuscula, and
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Atriplex cana. These plants tolerate high salinity through salt-excreting glands or
internal salt storage, enabling them to survive where most plants cannot. Their
deep roots also help anchor soil and reduce erosion. Xerophytes like Calligonum
caput-medusae and Artemisia terrae-albae are well-adapted to arid conditions.
Features such as small leaves, waxy coatings, and deep root systems allow them
to conserve water and survive long dry periods. These species also improve soil
structure and contribute to biodiversity. Pioneer grasses and shrubs, such as
Agropyron cristatum, are among the first to colonize the bare soil. They grow
quickly, stabilize the surface, and enrich the soil with organic matter. Their
presence supports the gradual development of more complex plant communities
over time. Together, these plants form a resilient vegetative cover that plays a
crucial role in the rehabilitation of the Aral Sea region by reducing
desertification and promoting ecosystem recovery.
The survival of plants in the dried Aral Sea region is largely due to their
specialized adaptations. Morphologically, many species have developed small,
narrow leaves or spiny structures that minimize transpiration. Others possess
deep and extensive root systems to access water from deeper soil layers.
Physiologically, halophytes excrete excess salt through special glands or store it
in their tissues, thereby maintaining osmotic balance. Additionally, many of
these plants exhibit seasonal growth patterns, growing rapidly during brief wet
periods and becoming dormant during dry spells. These strategies not only help
the plants survive but also aid in gradually transforming the soil into more
hospitable conditions for future plant succession.
The green cover on the Aral Sea’s dried bed provides several ecological
benefits. Firstly, it reduces the frequency and severity of salt and dust storms by
anchoring the soil. Secondly, these plants contribute to the gradual improvement
of soil quality by increasing organic matter content and microbial activity.
Thirdly, they offer a habitat and food source for insects, birds, and small
mammals, gradually restoring biodiversity. Moreover, the presence of
vegetation influences the microclimate by reducing temperature fluctuations
and increasing humidity in localized areas. Consequently, these ecological
services are critical for stabilizing the region and creating conditions favorable
for further afforestation and agricultural use [5, 39-50].
Despite these positive developments, there are significant challenges in
expanding and maintaining the green cover. The high salinity and poor fertility
of the soil limit plant diversity. Additionally, irregular rainfall and limited access
to freshwater hinder natural regeneration. Human interventions, such as
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overgrazing and insufficiently monitored afforestation projects, may also
damage fragile ecosystems. Furthermore, the slow pace of soil improvement
poses a barrier to introducing more diverse or economically valuable plant
species in the short term.
Nonetheless, ongoing research and international collaboration offer hope.
Scientists are experimenting with salt-tolerant and nitrogen-fixing species that
can accelerate soil recovery. Remote sensing technologies and GIS mapping are
being employed to monitor vegetation growth. Furthermore, community
involvement and government support are increasing for greenbelt projects. In
the future, combining traditional ecological knowledge with scientific innovation
can lead to a more comprehensive strategy for ecological restoration of the Aral
Sea region.
Conclusion.
In conclusion, the green cover of the dried base of the Aral Sea
is a testament to the resilience of nature and the potential for ecological
recovery. The plants that have colonized this area exhibit remarkable
adaptations to salinity, drought, and poor soil conditions. While many challenges
remain, the benefits of this vegetation are profound, offering soil stabilization,
biodiversity support, and a foundation for future restoration efforts. Therefore,
continued research, afforestation, and sustainable management practices are
essential to preserve and expand this green cover for the benefit of both the
environment and the local population.
References:
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Alikhanova, S., & Bull, J. W. (2023). Review of nature-based solutions in
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