Ecological Situation of Poplar Species in the Aral Sea Region of Kazakhstan

Abstract

The study was conducted in response to the deteriorating environmental conditions in the Aral Sea region of Kazakhstan, characterized by the degradation of natural ecosystems, loss of biodiversity, and the disappearance of valuable tree species. Of particular importance is the investigation of the current status of populations of Populus pruinosa Schrenk and Populus diversifolia Schrenk, relic tree species of the desert regions of Kyzylorda Region that play a crucial role in maintaining the stability of tugai and floodplain ecosystems. The aim of the study was to determine the current distribution range of Populus pruinosa and Populus diversifolia in Kyzylorda Region and to assess the condition of their coenopopulations and reproductive potential. To achieve this objective, 12 key sites across the region were surveyed. A comparative analysis of the historical and current distribution ranges of the species was carried out using distribution maps developed by S. Ya. Sokolov (1951), P. P. Besschetnov and L. M. Grudzinskaya (1981), as well as original maps prepared by the authors in 2024. Field studies included assessments of population density, projective cover, morphological characteristics of the plants at different stages of vegetation, and their potential for both sexual (seed) and vegetative reproduction. The collected data were processed using Microsoft Excel. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in the distribution ranges of both species within Kyzylorda Region. In several areas, particularly within the Aral and Kazaly districts, some populations have disappeared completely. Experimental investigations revealed a low rate of natural regeneration by seed, whereas propagation through root suckers showed high potential for producing planting material. The study concludes that urgent measures are required to conserve and restore the natural populations of Populus pruinosa and Populus diversifolia. The findings can be applied in programs aimed at restoring tugai forests, conserving the biodiversity of the Aral Sea region, and establishing nurseries for the artificial propagation of rare tree species under arid ecosystem conditions.