Changes in the complex of rare and endangered mammals (Mammalia) in present-day Rostov Nature Reserve since the middle of the twentieth century

Abstract

Under the influence of various factors, the ecosystems of dry steppes of Russia have undergone profound changes since the middle of the twentieth century. In the work dedicated to the territory occupied by the present-day Rostov Nature Reserve, the changes in mammals included in regional, federal and international Red Books (lists) and causes of these changes are reviewed. Until the 1950s, human use of steppes was limited due to scarcity of fresh water, which assured the preservation of natural xerophytic vegetation and associated fauna. Irrigation of steppes contributed to the intensive development of animal husbandry, restructuring of ecosystems with their biodiversity and the formation of anthropogenic deserts. To restore natural ecosystems, the Rostov Nature Reserve was created in 1996, and its activities made preservation of natural biodiversity possible. As a result of the deep restructuring of ecosystems, the modified biogeocenosis was very different from that in the mid-1950s of the XX century. Mammals typical for dry steppes in the past under the influence of various anthropogenic and natural causes considered in the article have become rare and endangered in present-day ecosystems. Intensification of economic activity in the twenty first century and climate warming increase the negative impact on steppe ecosystems and rare mammals. Possibilities for the conservation of rare and endangered mammals in the reserve are discussed.