DIGITALIZATION OF THE COLLECTIONS IN THE HERBARIUM FUND OF THE DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY AND ITS PLACEMENT ON THE GBIF PLATFORM
Herbarium collections held by regional universities in Kazakhstan largely remain outside the international scientific circulation due to the lack of digital data formats. This study addresses this gap with respect to the herbarium fund of the Department of Biology at M. Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University.The research material comprised 925 herbarium specimens from nine families – Boraginaceae, Labiatae, Solanaceae, Scrophulariaceae, Orchidaceae, Liliaceae, Ericaceae, Convallariaceae, Fabaceae, and Asteraceae – collected between 1957 and 2025. The collection includes both historical specimens from the mid-twentieth century and recent field material.Digitization was carried out in accordance with the international Darwin Core (DwC) standard. Data integrity was verified using the GBIF validator, after which the dataset was published via the IPT platform and made available on the global GBIF portal, ensuring its openness and integration into international biodiversity data infrastructure.Taxonomic analysis revealed a predominance of species characteristic of forest, meadow, and meadow-steppe communities, consistent with the vegetation patterns typical of the region. The temporal coverage of the collection spans more than 70 years, allowing the dynamics of floristic collecting to be traced over an extended period. Geographic analysis showed an uneven distribution of records across administrative districts, with the largest number of specimens originating from the Kyzylzhar district of the North Kazakhstan region.The resulting digital dataset is of value for floristic, ecological-geographic, and taxonomic research, contributes to the preservation of the herbarium fund, and expands its potential use in education and nature conservation.
flora, herbarium collections; digital databases, digitization; GBIF; Darwin Core; IPT; geolocation
Copyright (c) 2026 Г.С. Тлеубергенова, М.Ж. Шарипова, Е.В. Галактионова (Автор)
QUALITATIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF PHOSPHATE BUFFER EXTRACTS FROM WOODY AND SHRUB PLANTS OF THE MOUNTAIN RANGES OF EASTERN AND SOUTHEASTERN KAZAKHSTAN
The article investigates the qualitative characteristics of phosphate-buffered extracts obtained from the leaves and fruits of woody and shrub species growing across various mountain ranges in Eastern and Southeastern Kazakhstan. Samples of Rosa acicularis, Rosa albertii, Rosa tarbagataica, Prunus armeniaca and Prunus bucharica were used as research materials. Extraction was performed using a 50 mM phosphate buffer at pH 7.0. The obtained extracts were evaluated for colour, turbidity, sediment formation, and stability. The results revealed distinct qualitative differences among plant species and the examined plant organs. Leaf extracts were generally characterised by dark green or brownish-green colouration and higher turbidity. In contrast, fruit extracts exhibited a yellowish or light-brown colour and were more transparent. Samples belonging to the genus Rosa showed higher turbidity and more pronounced sediment formation, whereas fruit extracts of the genus Prunus were characterised by greater stability and lower turbidity. The findings indicate that the phosphate-buffered system is a suitable medium for obtaining plant extracts and allows a comparative assessment of the qualitative characteristics of extracts from different plant species. The results may serve as baseline data for planning subsequent biochemical analyses and studies.
50 mM phosphate buffer, plant tissues, qualitative characteristics of extracts, turbidity, precipitate formation, water-soluble proteins, Rosa, Prunus
Copyright (c) 2026 А.Б. Мырзагалиева, Е. Жигер, С.Б. Абеуова, М.Ж. Шарипова, Л.П. Хлебова, А.Е. Оразов (Автор)
DENDROCHRONOLOGICAL STUDIES OF CONIFEROUS TREE SPECIES IN THE FOREST-STEPPE ZONE ON THE TERRITORY OF THE STATE NATIONAL NATURAL PARK «KOKSHETAU»: COMPARATIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF FIVE BRANCHES
This article presents the results of dendrochronological studies conducted in five branches of the State National Natural Park «Kokshetau» (Zerenda, Arybalyk, Shalkar, Aiyrtau, and Ormanly Bulak). The research was based on the analysis of tree-ring samples from Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and Siberian larch (Larix sibirica Ledeb.). The study established the main statistical characteristics of local chronologies, including the period of chronologies (1813-2025), the mean radial increment, standard deviation, mean sensitivity (MS), interseries correlation (RBAR), synchronicity (GLK), and the expressed population signal (EPS). The results revealed that the Zerenda site demonstrated the highest indicators of radial growth (1.42 conventional units) and the highest sensitivity (MS=0.38) and interseries correlation (RBAR=0.68), indicating a more pronounced response to climatic factors. All studied chronologies are characterized by high reliability (EPS>0.85), confirming their suitability for climatic reconstructions. The obtained data form the basis for further studies of the influence of climatic factors on the radial growth of coniferous species in the forest-steppe zone of Northern Kazakhstan. of Northern Kazakhstan.
dendrochronology, tree rings, Scots pine, Siberian larch, forest-steppe zone, Kokshetau National Park, radial growth, climate
Copyright (c) 2026 Ш.Б. Абилова, А. Б. Карабалаева (Автор)
CURRENT STATE OF THE COMMUNITY STRUCTURE OF BENTHIC INVERTEBRATES IN THE BUKHTARMA RESERVOIR (IRTYSH RIVER BASIN
This article presents the results of studies conducted in the river basins of the Bukhtarma Reservoir within the Irtysh River Basin as part of the scientific and technical program of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan « Comprehensive studies of water bodies for the conservation and sustainable use of aquatic biological resources based on the assessment of their potential and modeling of stock dynamics» (BR23591095). The paper presents current data on the taxonomic composition of the macrozoobenthos of the Bukhtarma Reservoir (Irtysh River Basin) under present-day environmental conditions for the period from 2021 to 2025. he taxonomic composition and dominant groups of benthic invertebrates were determined, and the interannual variability of the macrozoobenthos was analyzed. According to the results of the conducted studies, the zoobenthos in the investigated water area was represented by 29 taxonomic units. The maximum number of taxa was recorded in 2023 (21 taxa), after which a decline was observed in 2024–2025, with partial recovery. Oligochaete worms (Oligochaeta gen. sp.) made a significant contribution in terms of frequency of occurrence. Chironomids were distinguished by their contribution to the formation of zoobenthic species richness, crustaceans dominated in abundance, while mollusks showed variable distribution and moderate diversity during the study period.
Copyright (c) 2026 Г.Т. Надирбаева, Г.К. Куанышбекова, О.И. Кириченко, С.Е. Базаров, Т.Н. Самарханов, А.Б. Мырзагалиева (Автор)
STUDY OF THE ECOLOGICAL-GEOGRAPHICAL AND MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE HALOPHYTE PETROSIMONIA TRIANDRA (PALL.) SIMONK FOUND IN CENTRAL KAZAKHSTAN
Soil salinization is widespread in the arid and semi-arid regions of Kazakhstan, which directly affects the structure of the plant cover. In such extreme ecological conditions, halophyte plants survive through specific adaptive mechanisms. The aim of this study is to investigate the ecological-geographical distribution patterns and morpho-anatomical characteristics of Petrosimonia triandra (Pall.) Simonk. occurring in Central Kazakhstan. Field geobotanical surveys, floristic analysis, microscopic anatomical studies, and ecological-factor assessments were applied. The results revealed the xerohalophytic nature of the species, development of succulent parenchyma, leaf reduction, thick cuticle, and the presence of salt-accumulating vacuoles. These findings help to understand the adaptive strategies of halophytes and to evaluate the condition of saline ecosystems in Central Kazakhstan.
Petrosimonia triandra, halophyte, xerohalophyte, morpho-anatomy, ecological adaptation, saline soils.
Copyright (c) 2026 А.Е. Сейтбекова, А.Т. Мамурова, Е.М. Турарова, А.С. Нурмаханова, Л.Н. Киекбаева (Автор)
WATER‑HARVESTING SWALES IN AGRICULTURE: IMPROVING RECLAMATION, EROSION CONTROL AND MOISTURE RETENTION
The article is devoted to the study and application of swales – simple hydraulic structures designed for water management and prevention of soil erosion. The historical roots of this technology are considered, starting from the Neolithic revolution, when small embankments were used to retain floodwaters. The article analyses the evolution of the use of swales from ancient liman irrigation systems to modern permaculture design and describes their advantages in water resources management. Swales are shallow ditches laid along contour lines of the terrain and serve to retain surface water and promote its gradual infiltration into the soil. They prevent water erosion, contribute to moisture accumulation, improve water absorption and increase the productivity of agroecosystems. The authors emphasise their particular importance for Kazakhstan, where frequent droughts and floods require effective anti‑erosion measures. The modern use of swales is also considered in the context of permaculture concepts. The article highlights the role of key permaculture figures P.A. Yeomans and B. Mollison in popularising swales and integrating them into the principles of sustainable ecosystem management. Particular attention is paid to the use of geographic information system (GIS) technologies, which make it possible to optimise the planning and implementation of swales and thus increase the effectiveness of water‑management measures.
swales; water erosion; runoff; catchment basin; GIS technologies; permaculture design.
CERVICAL CANCER IN KAZAKHSTAN: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL AND BIOLOGICAL ASPECTS
The article discusses the epidemiological situation regarding cervical cancer (CC) worldwide and in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Based on current scientific data and data from international organizations, it analyzes whether morbidity and mortality rates depend on the level of socio-economic development of each country, the availability of medical care, and the organization of preventive measures. It is shown that highly oncogenic types of human papillomavirus, including HPV-16 and HPV-18, play a particularly important role as one of the main causes influencing the development of cervical cancer. Long-term carriage of this virus can lead to pathological changes in the epithelium of the cervix and subsequent transformation into a malignant tumor. Analysis of epidemiological data in Kazakhstan shows uneven incidence rates across regions. Such differences are most often associated with the level of population participation in preventive examinations, the effective organization of screening programs, and the availability of medical services. The article discusses the importance of organized screening programs, HPV testing and vaccination for the prevention of cervical cancer. In addition, it considers the long-term preventive impact of fostering a culture of responsible attitudes toward health among young people. The result of the analysis show that in order to reduce the prevalence of cervical cancer in Kazakhstan, it is important to improve screening for early detection of the disease, expand preventive programs and raise public awareness.
Copyright (c) 2026 NATURA SCIENTIA JOURNAL
ANATOMICAL MARKERS OF THE ADAPTIVE POTENTIAL OF BETA VULGARIS L.: MESOPHYLL, IDIOBLASTS, AND THE VASCULAR SYSTEM
This study identifies the morpho-anatomical features of the leaf and storage root of Beta vulgaris L. and evaluates their association with physiological activity and tolerance to stress factors. Fully developed leaves and storage-root samples were examined. The material was fixed using the Strasburger–Flemming method (ethanol:glycerol:water = 1:1:1); sections were prepared manually and with a freezing microtome at a thickness of 10–15 µm. Microstructural observations were carried out by light microscopy; linear measurements were taken using an ocular micrometer and the data were processed statistically. The leaf exhibited pronounced tissue differentiation: the thickness of the upper epidermis was 16.3±0.4 µm and the lower epidermis 14.2±0.7 µm; palisade mesophyll thickness was 26.1±0.8 µm and spongy mesophyll thickness 38.9±1.17 µm. Idioblasts containing dark-stained intracellular inclusions were detected in the mesophyll, along with the formation of cavities associated with water conservation, which may reflect protective responses and stabilization of the plant water regime. Vascular bundles were large and well developed, supporting efficient transport within the leaf blade. In the storage root, a well-developed periderm and a 4–5-layered primary cortex were observed; parenchyma showed accumulation of reserve substances (thickness 11.5±1.6 µm). In the central region, a diarch primary xylem pattern and secondary modifications were recorded: the vascular bundle diameter reached 187.4±2.4 µm, xylem vessel diameter was 8.4±0.1 µm, and phloem element diameter was 3.1±0.5 µm. Overall, the presence of idioblasts, the development of water-storing parenchyma, and a robust vascular system are considered key anatomical traits underpinning the high adaptive potential of Beta vulgaris L.
MORPHOLOGY AND LEAF ANATOMY OF THE XEROHALOPHYTE TAMARIX LAXA WILLD. UNDER SALINITY
This study describes the leaf morphology and anatomy of the xerohalophyte Tamarix laxa Willd. collected from natural populations of the Almaty region (Kerbulak gorge, Ili district) inhabiting saline sandy–gravelly sites. Samples were fixed using the Strasburger–Flemming method (ethanol:glycerol:water = 1:1:1); transverse leaf sections were prepared with a freezing microtome (TOS-2) at 10–15 µm thickness. Microscopic observations were performed by light microscopy; linear measurements were taken with an ocular micrometer and the data were processed statistically. Leaves were glabrous; the epidermis was single-layered with a well-developed cuticle. Stomata were mainly confined to the abaxial surface, indicating a hypostomatic leaf type. The thickness of the upper epidermis cells was 14.8±1.7 µm and the lower epidermis 10.2±1.81 µm. The mesophyll was differentiated into palisade and spongy parenchyma of an isolateral/central type, 2–3 layers thick; palisade cell thickness was 23.5±0.4 µm and spongy parenchyma 27.1±1.08 µm. Water-storage tissues were observed in the abaxial epidermal region and within the palisade zone; solitary idioblasts and clusters of secretory cells occurred among the assimilatory parenchyma. Vascular bundles were surrounded by a two-layer chlorenchymatous sheath, with partially succulent cells concentrated around the conducting tissues. Salt accumulation was recorded in marginal leaf cells and salt crystals were observed on the leaf surface; dehydration may cause detachment or rupture of these cells, facilitating removal of excess salts and representing an important adaptive mechanism. Overall, the presence of water-storing structures and salt-secretion traits confirms a succulent xeromorphic leaf syndrome that supports gas exchange with minimal water loss and contributes to population persistence under arid and saline conditions.
Tamarix laxa Willd., leaf anatomy, xerohalophyte, hypostomatic leaf, adaptation.
RREVIEW OF SPECIES OF THE GENUS AEGILOPS L. (POCEAE) IN CENTRAL ASIA
The article presents data on the distribution and species diversity of the genus Aegilops L. in the countries of Central Asia. Based on field research, literature sources, and analysis of herbarium specimens, six species of the genus are distributed in Central Asia (Aegilops cylindrica, A. crassa, A. tauschii, A. triuncialis, A. juvenalis). The species Aegilops kotschyi Boiss. is reported for the first time for the flora of Uzbekistan. Species of the genus Aegilops L., in addition to being wild relatives of cultivated wheat-one of the main food crops-are grazed by livestock on pastures in early spring. The results of this study will serve as a basis for future work on flora monitoring and regional cadastre assessments.
GENOMIC ASSESSMENT OF GENETIC DIVERSITY IN MEDICINAL POPULATIONS OF CALLIGONUM LEUCOCLADUM (SCHRENK) BUNGE IN THE KYZYLKUM DESERT
Calligonum leucocladum (Schrenk) Bunge is an ecologically significant desert shrub adapted to the arid and semi-arid environments of Central Asia. For the first time, this study provides an integrative assessment of its genetic diversity, population structure, and phytochemical variation using high-resolution SNP genotyping and chemometric profiling. We analyzed 150 individuals from three geographically distinct populations (P1, P2, and P3) in the Kyzylkum Desert and adjacent regions. Linkage disequilibrium (LD) decay analysis showed that P1 had the highest recombination rate (with r² declining sharply at 10 kb), while P2 exhibited strong LD across longer distances, indicating moderate genetic isolation. P3 displayed intermediate genomic characteristics. Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) explained 76.55% of total genetic variation and supported the clear differentiation of P1, whereas P2 and P3 showed closer genetic relationships. Minimum Spanning Tree (MST) analysis further confirmed these patterns. Phytochemical profiling revealed, for the first time, significant population-level differences in total phenolic and flavonoid content, as well as antioxidant capacity, which were consistent with the genetic structure. These findings suggest that geographic isolation, habitat fragmentation, and environmental stressors contribute to population divergence in C. leucocladum The high genetic and biochemical diversity found in P1 identifies it as a potential reservoir of adaptive traits. This work provides a valuable foundation for conservation planning and ecological restoration of desert flora.
C. leucocladum ,genetic diversity, population genetics, arid ecosystem adaptation and conservation biology
IMPROVING PROSO MILLET VARIETY SAMPLES RESISTANCE TO LODGING
This article presents the results of research on proso millet breeding for resistance to lodging. While the Akmola region is one of the most favorable for cultivation of cereal crops, strong winds in the region can severely damage the plant structure, and therefore, limit potential yield. Therefore, plant breeding for lodging resistance, particularly in proso millet, which has a weak straw and root system, is an important and relevant area of research which is often understudied. The research is based on 2020-2025 field data from the Akmola region. The study includes variety samples of different origins, foreign and local. For statistical analysis lodging risk index, integral risk index, index of potential stability were calculated. By focusing on such traits as plant height (H), straw diameter (D), and number of internodes (N), we were able to identify the most resistant genotypes by different parameters which will be further included in plant breeding programs to increase proso millet yield.
Rheological properties of monoterpene compounds
Monoterpenes are the most interesting substrates with biological and chemical properties. Nowadays monoterpens structure didn’t clearly recognized by several modern methods. A number of representatives of the terpene series from relevant literature sources were considered to compare their chemical activity, predict obstacles to rheological detection in order to avoid key errors in analytical analyses such as electrophoresis. To determine several qualities of it monoterpene contanting structure was observed and investigated by spectrophotometer and capillar phoresis. In this study, a colorimetric indicator assay was developed for rapid determination of monoterpenes in sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) essential oils. Сapillar electrophoresis results showed that the main components in citrus essential oil are citral, which elicited greater extents of color changes as compared to other monoterpenes (limonene, α-pinene, β-pinene and terpinolene). The colorimetric indicator is potentially useful for rapid assessment of monoterpene oxidation in citrus essential oil and other citrus-based products.
monoterpenes, reological properties, thin-layer chromatography, citral
Copyright (c) 2025 Natura Scientia Journal
Main hydrochemical characteristics of lake Zhaisan in the period 2020-2024
This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the hydrochemical characteristics of Lake Zhaisan, one of the largest and most significant bodies of water in the East Kazakhstan region. The paper presents the results of field studies conducted in the spring and fall of 2024, and also includes a retrospective comparative analysis with data from 2020–2023. Particular attention was paid to studying the dynamics of dissolved gases, biogenic compounds, organic matter, and mineralization levels. Sampling was carried out at stations on the Tarbagatai and Kurchum coasts, and analysis was performed using standard, accepted methods. A comparative analysis of the obtained parameters was also conducted to identify both short-term seasonal and long-term interannual changes. The results demonstrate that the lake's hydrochemical regime is generally stable and complies with standards established for fishery waters. An increase in dissolved oxygen levels, a decrease in mineralization compared to previous years, and moderate fluctuations in nutrient levels were recorded. The aquatic pH is predominantly slightly alkaline, and organic matter levels remain low. The ion structure of the water indicates that the lake belongs to the hydrocarbonate class, a calcium group. The obtained results confirm favorable conditions for aquatic organisms and the need for continued comprehensive monitoring.
hydrochemistry, Lake Zhaisan, dissolved gases, biogenic compounds, organic matter, water mineralization.
Population biology of Allium aflatunense B.Fedtsch. introduced into the forest-steppe zone of the Russian Federation
Abstract. The development of new green building elements and expansion of the range of ornamental plants used in landscape gardening remains a pressing issue today. In this regard, interest is growing in potential introduced species, particularly perennials, that could be used in various landscape designs. The objectives of this study included investigating the population biology of Allium aflatunense B.Fedtsch. during its introduction to the forest-steppe zone of the Russian Federation (Central Black Earth Region, Voronezh). A. aflatunense is widely used in landscape design due to its bright purple, star-shaped flowers and striking umbel-shaped inflorescence on a tall stem. After flowering, the umbels retain their ornamental value until the seeds are fully ripened. Thus, the ornamental value of the specimens is maintained throughout the entire growing season. The study was conducted from 2023 to 2025 at the B.A. Keller Botanical Garden of the Voronezh State Agrarian University. The ontogenesis and seed production of the specimens were studied. Over the three years of introduction, A. aflatunense plants underwent three stages and seven ontogenetic states: seed, seedling, juvenile, immature, virginal, latent generative, and young generative. The mid-life generative stage was additionally described using 10- to 12-year-old specimens. The article presents diagnostic features and biomorphological characteristics of all stages. Data on the species' seed productivity under the introduction conditions are also presented. The developmental characteristics of A. aflatunense grown in the forest-steppe conditions of the Central Chernozem Region suggest the success of the species' introduction and recommend it as an ornamental plant for landscaping. To initiate seed generation in specimens as early as the second year of development, vernalization of plants during the intermediate winter period should be used.
Allium aflatunense B.Fedtsch., introduction, ontogenesis, development period, ontogenetic state, morphological characteristics, seed productivity.
Specific features of radial growth of coniferous trees in the rorest-steppe zone of Northern Kazakhstan: a dendrochronological approach
Abstract. This article provides a review of current scientific research on the dynamics of radial tree growth under the influence of climate change and anthropogenic impacts, with a focus on the forest-steppe ecosystems of Kazakhstan. Dendrochronological approaches are examined as the methodological foundation, enabling the identification of links between climatic factors, soil ecological conditions, and biological responses of woody plants. Based on the analysis of national and international literature, it is shown that tree radial growth is highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations, drought, heavy metal pollution, and other stressors. Key methods of tree-ring analysis are highlighted, including ARSTAN and TSAP software, as well as statistical models commonly applied in dendroclimatology. The results emphasize the importance of an integrated interdisciplinary approach to studying forest ecosystem resilience and highlight the need to expand dendroecological research to develop adaptive strategies for sustainable forest management in Kazakhstan.
dendrochronology, radial growth, coniferous species, forest-steppe zone, climate change, ecosystem, tree rings, Northern Kazakhstan, ecological monitoring, forest resilience.
Dynamics of hydrological and hydrochemical indicators of the Ust-Kamenogorsk reservoir in 2020-2024
Abstract. This article presents the results of studies on the hydrochemical and hydrological regime of the Ust-Kamenogorsk Reservoir over the past five years. The aim of the study was to assess the dynamics of hydrological and hydrochemical indicators of the Ust-Kamenogorsk Reservoir during 2020-2024 in order to identify trends in water quality changes and habitat conditions for hydrobionts. The research was based on systematic observations of water level fluctuations and laboratory analyses of water samples collected from the upper, middle, and lower parts of the reservoir during the spring-summer seasons. The study included measurements of physicochemical parameters (pH, dissolved oxygen, CO₂, organic matter, biogenic elements, and mineralization) using standard hydrochemical analytical methods. The results showed that the average annual water level varied slightly over the five-year period, indicating a stable hydrological regime. All parameters complied with the fishery water quality standards. A slight increase in oxygen content and stabilization of biogenic compounds was observed. Thus, it was established that the hydrological and hydrochemical regimes of the Ust-Kamenogorsk Reservoir remain stable, providing favorable conditions for the reproduction and habitation of aquatic organisms, confirming its importance as a fishery water body.
Ust-Kamenogorsk Reservoir, hydrological regime, hydrochemical indicators, water quality, biogenic substances, mineralization.
Physico-geographical conditions and hydrochemical state of local water bodies in the Еast Kazakhstan region
The study is based on materials collected during field expeditions conducted in 2024 at Lake Kogedai and the pond near Station 23 km. The article provides brief physico-geographical descriptions of the water bodies, including their morphometric characteristics and geographic coordinates. The results of the hydrochemical analyses of Lake Kogedai and the Station 23 km pond are presented, covering assessments of physicochemical parameters, gas regime, mineralization, concentrations of organic and biogenic substances, as well as major ions. The obtained hydrochemical indicators were compared with the current fishery standards. The aim of the present study was to carry out a physico-geographical characterization and a comprehensive assessment of the hydrochemical regime of the water bodies in order to determine their current hydrochemical status and to compare the results with existing fishery norms. Lake Kogedai is characterized by a slightly alkaline reaction, an optimal oxygen regime, very low oxidizability, and low mineralization. The content of biogenic compounds did not exceed the established standards. The pond at Station 23 km showed a favorable oxygen regime, low mineralization, and a slightly alkaline medium. No exceedances of biogenic compound concentrations were detected; overall, the pond conditions are optimal for the existence of hydrobionts.