Monitoring of Some Aquatic Ecosystems in the Northeastern Part of Armenia
Monitoring of Some Aquatic Ecosystems in the Northeastern Part of Armenia
Vardanyan Zaruhi, Bayramyan Liliya, Sahakyan Gayane, Mkhitaryan Hasmik
Summary
Key words: aquatic plants, ecosystem, landscape diversity, monitoring, succession, species diversity
Armenia’s geographical location determines its remarkable landscapediversity; however, its natural ecosystems and vegetation cover are undergoing rapid changes under the influence of climatic and anthropogenic factors. The object of the study is the flora of the wetlands in the Tashir region, situated in the central part of the Lori Plateau, within the Lori floristic district, at an elevation of 1,400–1,600 m above sea level, between the Bazum and Virahayots mountain ranges. The article presents the results of monitoring the aquatic ecosystems (lakes) of the Tashir region. The study focused on four lakes (Nos. 1–4) located along the Stepanavan-Tashir road, which are classified under category C1.2 (permanent mesotrophic lakes, pools, and reservoirs). The research employed the route survey method together with standard hydroecological methods.
The findings revealed that Lakes 1–3 are dominated by monodominant populations of Nymphoides peltata (S. G. Gmelin) O. Kuntze, indicating ongoing
eutrophication and successional processes. Extensive stands of broad-leaved floating plants and free-floating species of the genus Lemna were observed along the shoreline, further reflecting changes in the ecological condition of these water bodies. Climatic conditions and anthropogenic alterations of the landscape contribute to a decline in the species composition of aquatic vegetation, underscoring the need for continuous monitoring and conservation of these aquatic ecosystems.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.58726/27382923-2026.1ns-56