Transformation of geosystems of the Baikal natural territory (research and mapping)

Abstract

The article deals with modern ideas about the transformation of geosystems and offers methodological foundations of its study. We considered the geosystem transformation in the context of changes in essential properties as a result of manifestation of transformative dynamics and geosystem evolution. It was revealed that the main trend of their transformations is largely determined by the impact of neotectonic processes. Singularities in the changes are assessed against the background of natural transformations of geosystems in the Late Cenozoic, when systemic connections, similar to modern ones, began to form. We noted that in most of plains and low-mountain areas of the area under study, a potential analogue of the natural complexes transformation in the Pliocene is currently being formed due to the development of aridization processes. We cite an instance of geosystem transformation of the Baikal natural territory. The methodology of mapping the transformation of geosystems, which is based on the mapping of system connections, transforming dynamics and evolution of geosystems, is considered. The research is based on information synthesis of data about the territory of Siberia, on the results of long-term ground route observations using the methods of complex physical and geographical research, comparative geographical, genetic, cartographic and GIS.