The Current State of White Saxaul Pastures in Northwestern Kyzylkum Related to Desertification

Abstract

Data on the current state of white saxaul pastures (Haloxylon persicum Bunge), widespread in Northwestern Kyzylkum (in the southern part of the Karakalpak Republic, Uzbekistan), are given. The pasture vegetation was studied by conventional methods of terrain geobotanical and floristic research at experimental stations and during route surveys used for studying and monitoring pastures and vegetation mapping. Three varieties of white saxaul pastures were analyzed during the terrain research in 2023. We determined their area, soil cover pattern, the total projective cover of the plant community, the species composition of plants, the yield of the forage mass, and the nutritional value of the forage. The calculated yield of the eaten part, nutritional forage value, and feed reserves show that all three varieties may be recommended for year-round use. The destruction of saxaul stands as a result of diverse human activities causes the destruction of natural ecosystems, soil compaction, an increase in the areas of drift sands, and a decrease in the species composition of flora and fauna. Therefore, there is a need for regular comprehensive geobotanical studies to assess the state of white saxaul pastures and for elaboration of measures to improve and restore them in modern environmental management conditions. The preservation of arid pastures in Uzbekistan is a complex problem that requires joint efforts by the state, farmers, and the population. Sustainable development and preservation of the unique ecosystems of arid zones may be achieved only by a systematic approach to this problem.