Mapping the Biodiversity of the Arid Regions of Kazakhstan with an Evaluation of the Efficiency of its Territorial Protection

Abstract

Using biogeographic approaches, the mapping of protected species of terrestrial vertebrates in the Republic of Kazakhstan was analyzed and carried out to identify places of high faunal diversity and assess the effectiveness of their protection by a network of specially protected natural areas. An analysis was made of the spatial distribution of protected species of terrestrial vertebrates by taxonomic groups (mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles, 109 species in total) and their totality, as well as by protection status; places of concentration of protected species of vertebrate animals were established as priority for the protection of territories in the Republic of Kazakhstan and an assessment was made of the effectiveness of locating the existing network of specially protected natural areas. The maps were made using the grid mapping method, which makes it possible to compare the results obtained with other arid macroregions. The role of a number of reserves, national parks, and large reserves in the protection of biological diversity is shown. Recommendations for the development of a network of specially protected natural areas in order to preserve areas of high biodiversity, as well as the tasks of further research in this direction have been formulated and substantiated.