Talysh Mountains Research Articles

Consequence of habitat specificity: a rising risk of habitat loss for endemic and sub-endemic woody species under climate change in the Hyrcanian ecoregion

Endemic species are more impacted by climate change than other taxa. However, assessing the vulnerability of endemics to these changes in some regions, such as the Hyrcanian forest, is limited, despite its importance for biodiversity and ecosystem function. To address the question of expected habitat shifts under climate change across the Hyrcanian ecoregion, we built an ensemble of species distribution models (SDM) under two emission scenarios (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5) for 15 endemic woody taxa. To identify the potential priority conservation areas, we also applied a spatial prioritization approach. Overall, our results suggest that the impacts of climate change are more severe on the eastern parts of the region (Golestan) and the Talysh Mountains (north-western Hyrcanian ecoregion) with over 85% and 34% loss of suitable habitats over the next 80 years. The central part of the Alborz Mountains (Mazandaran) and some areas in the Talysh Mountains could be potential climatic refugia under the future conditions for endemic taxa. The most prominent changes are expected for Ruscus hyrcanus, Gleditsia capsica, Acer velutinum, Frangula grandifolia, and Buxus hyrcana. The worrying predicted loss of suitable habitats for most studied taxa would dramatically affect the stability and resilience of forests, threatening thus biodiversity of the Hyrcanian ecoregion. We present the first estimation of the potential risks involved and provide useful support for regional climate-adaptation strategy, indicating potential conservation priority areas for maintaining and preserving its resources. Notably, only 13.4% of areas designated for conservation and management under climate change will be located within the current Hyrcanian protected areas, yet the majority of these areas are classified as low priority.

Complex analysis of the geodynamic conditions of the Absheron-Balkhan oil and gas zone

The Absheron-Balkhan oil and gas area is located in the contact zone of the Scythian-Turanian platform with the South Caspian basin (SCB). In recent years, in addition to theoretical considerations, scientists have conducted a number of geophysical studies to determine the structure of sediment cover in the South Caspian Basin. The information obtained about the depth structure has formed a new idea about the formation of the South Caspian basin. The purpose of the work is to study the features of geodynamics of the zone of the junction of the South Caspian basin and the Scythian-Turanian epi-Hercynian platform. The research methodology combines a complex analysis of geological, seismological, geomorphological, and geodetic data on the studied area. Geological and geophysical data in particular on regional profiles were used to link earthquakes to specific geological structures.
 The South Caspian Basin is surrounded by active mountain zones on all sides. The Kopeh Dagh, Alborz, and Talysh mountains, which connect the eastern, southern, and western sides of the basin, are observed with earthquakes not deeper than 30 km. In contrast, earthquakes were observed in the Absheron-Balkhan threshold, which covers the northern part of the basin, at depths greater than 30 km. Tectonically, the Absheron-Balkhan threshold is located at the junction of the South Caspian oceanic crust and the epi-Hercynian Scythian- Turanian continental crust.
 Seismic events, mainly in the northern part of the South Caspian Basin are necessary to study the geodynamic conditions of this area, and to determine the causes of earthquakes. It was observed that the strongest and deepest earthquakes, as well as tectonic processes, occurred in the northern flank of the South Caspian Basin, in the Absheron-Balkhan fold zone, and in the pre-platform area. Analysis of the focal mechanisms and depths of earthquakes proves that they are not specific to collision structures. The high seismic activity of the study area, the observation of crustal deformations at the edges of the basin (based on GPS data), and the development of mud volcanism indicate that the geodynamic conditions of the basin are active. Analysis of the seismic events data shows that the subduction of the oceanic crust of the SCB in the zone of the Absheron threshold under the continental crust of the Scythian- Turanian is the main geological event that caused seismic activity in modern times.
 KEYWORDS: Absheron-Balkhan fold zone, geodynamic conditions, South Caspian Basin, earthquake, deep structure.

Age Structure of the Population of Anguis colchica orientalis (Reptilia, Anguidae) in the Talysh Mountains

Age Structure of the Population of Anguis colchica orientalis (Reptilia, Anguidae) in the Talysh Mountains

Age Structure, Growth, and Reproduction of the Twin-Striped Skink (Ablepharus bivittatus, Reptilia, Scincidae) in the Talysh Mountains (Ardabil Province, Iran)

Age Structure, Growth, and Reproduction of the Twin-Striped Skink (Ablepharus bivittatus, Reptilia, Scincidae) in the Talysh Mountains (Ardabil Province, Iran)

AGE STRUCTURE, GROWTH AND REPRODUCTION OF THE TWO-STREAKED SNAKE-EYED SKINK (<i>ABLEPHARUS BIVITTATUS</i>, REPTILIA, SCINCIDAE) IN THE TALYSH MOUNTAINS (ARDABIL PROVINCE, IRAN)

The age, growth, and fertility of two populations of Ablepharus bivittatus in the Talysh Mountains are presented. Altogether, 59 individuals were studied from two localities in the Ardabil Province, Iran, one being the village of Khanegah-e-Oliya in Nemin shahrestan and the other the village of Majara in Khalkhal shahrestan. The age of the lizards was determined using skeletochronology. The average age of females was 3.6 ± 1.15 years (maximum 6 years), in males 2.6 ± 1.24 (maximum 5 years). On the sections of tubular bones of many individuals, lines of growth retardation are noted, corresponding to hibernation and aestivation. Lizards grow intensely during the first 3 years of life, but then their growth slows down. Animals in the age groups of 3 years and older do not differ in body length. The age of pregnant lizards is 2–5 years, on average 3.7 ± 0.91 years. The fertility of females does not depend on age.

Combined Mutations of DMD and CFTR Genes in an Azerbaijani Family

A 9 year old boy with the obvious traits of Duchene muscular dystrophy disease is a resident of Masalli region of Azerbaijan, located in the south-east foothill of Talysh Mountains. Family members such as mother, father and sister of this index patient were examined. To diagnose all members of the family, biochemical analysis was conducted for quantitative analysis of creatine phosphokinase in blood serum and genealogical survey identified inherited disease cystic fibrosis in first cousin of this index patient . Quantitative evaluation of creatine phosphokinase in blood serum was performed for all family members of the index patient ., and identified high values: in index patient (2298 U/L, norm - 38-137 U/L), in his mother (879 U/L, norm - 26-140 U/L) and his sister (852U/L, norm - 26-140 U/L), whereas his father had normal range values of creatine phosphokinase in blood (53,1 U/L, where norm - 38-137 U/L). Diagnosis of Duchenne muscular dystrophy disease was confirmed in index patient in hemizygous state. His mother and sister were found as heterozygous carriers of the (Duchenne muscular dystrophy) DMD gene. Molecular genetic analysis of the DMD gene (MLPA) identified mutation in the mother and sister of the index patient. Mutation type was nonsense, and classified as pathogenic class. Molecular genetic analysis of the DMD gene showed a gain of mutations, consisting of two copies encompassing exon 03 to 09 in the index patient, mother and his sister. The identified two different mutations of DMD gene in Azerbaijani family: fragment deletion of exon 45 in three sibs from Astara region of Azerbaijan, located in the south-east of the country, and deletion encompassing exons from 8 to 20 in 10-year-old boy in Balakan region, located in the north-west of the Republic Mutation type is a nonsense mutation and classified as pathogenic of class 1. Inherited cystic fibrosis in heterozygous state was additionally identified in the index patient, in father and sister. The screening of identified mutations may serve as a prenatal diagnostic tool to carefully plan the prophylaxis in patients with cystic fibrosis. Furthermore, our studies may serve as a basis for the future investigation of many aberrant molecular mechanisms and regulatory pathways. The study of Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy resulted in one of the first successful attempts at reverse genetics, better described as positional cloning, in humans. Discovery and subsequent analysis of the gene mutation that results in the clinical disorder led to the discovery of the encoded protein, dystrophin. This coinage set a precedent for the naming of proteins discovered by positional cloning of human disease genes: for example, huntingtin, emerin, and ataxin

Grave Monuments in South–Eastern End of the South Caucasus: Late Bronze – Early Iron Age Kurgans

The article deals with the results of the Late Bronze – Early Iron Age kurgans built in the foothills of the Talysh Mountains at the south-eastern end of the South Caucasus. Saribulag kurgans are located in Alar village of Yardimly district, on the pasture of the same name at an altitude of 2000 m above sea level. These grave monuments are very important in terms of studying the burial customs of the Late Bronze – Early Iron Age communities. Comparative analysis shows that such archaeological patterns are well known from the monuments of contemporary archaeological culture sites of the South Caucasus. When comparing the findings revealed during the excavations and the typology of graves with parallel samples in different regions of Azerbaijan and outside the Caucasus, the Saribulag kurgans can be attributed to the Late Bronze-Early Iron Age.

Morphometric and Reproductive Features of the Two-Streaked Snake-Eyed Skink (Ablepharus bivittatus (Menetries 1832), Reptilia, Scincidae) in the Talysh Mountains

Morphometric and Reproductive Features of the Two-Streaked Snake-Eyed Skink (Ablepharus bivittatus (Menetries 1832), Reptilia, Scincidae) in the Talysh Mountains

Growth Layers and Its Complex Structure in a Common Species Under Uncommon Conditions: <i>Pelophylax ridibundus</i> in the Talysh Mountains

In the Talysh Mountains, the marsh frog, Pelophylax ridibundus (Pallas, 1771), increases its distribution due to human activity. In the mountain forest belt, frogs inhabit flowing ponds with cold spring water. These reservoirs are characterized by a stable temperature regime: the water in them is kept at the level of 10 – 12°C in winter and does not fall below 6°C, and in summer does not rise above 18°C. Probably, the cold flow water of ponds in the mountain-forest belt of Talysh can cause some features of growth and maturation for P. ridibundus. The aim of our work was to study the features of the structure of growth layers including the variation in degree of expression of lines of arrested growth (LAGs) of the marsh frogs in ponds with cold flow water. Frogs were collected in the upper part of the Tangeru River gorge in Sym village of Astara District of Azerbaijan (480 m a.s.l.) in August 2018. In total, we studied skeletochronologically 8 females and 9 males. In contrast to the results of the tubular bones studies in the marsh frog presented in earlier works, the studied individuals are characterized by a more complex and diverse structure in the cross section of shin bones. All the revealed diversity of this structure can be divided into three groups. To the first group are relatively rare cases in which there are growth layers with wintering LAGs and additional growth layers but without additional LAGs. The second group includes more frequent cases in which there are growth layers not only with wintering LAGs but with additional LAGs differing discretely from wintering LAGs. The third group includes the rarest cases where there are growth layers with wintering LAGs and with additional LAGs without discrete difference from wintering LAGs. The revealed high variable structure of growth layers and distinctiveness of LAGs in P. ridibundus can be explained by unusual temperature regime in habitat of studied population and the existence of several activity period during a year. The most continuous period of low temperatures (February and March) corresponds to formation hibernation LAGs and dark rings in growth layers. Besides, period from early December to late January may be so cold that frog growth retard sufficiently or stop completely. The formation of more dark parts of growth layers or even several additional LAGs can correspond to this period.

Distribution and Conservation Status of the Hyrcanian Wood Frog (<i>Rana pseudodalmatina</i>) in Azerbaijan

In Azerbaijan, the Hyrcanian wood frog (Rana pseudodalmatina) usually inhabits forests in the Talysh Mountains and the Lenkoran Lowland from –28 to 2265 m above sea level. Drier regions to the north and west of the Talysh Mountains limit the species distribution. The species can locally penetrate to a no forested zone in the northern and western foothills of the Talysh Mountains and the Zuvand Desert. In order to study the distribution and estimate ecological preferences of the species, we applied MaxEnt using 98 localities from Azerbaijan, Iran, and Turkmenistan. The range of the species covers mainly pre-Caspian slopes of the Talysh and Alborz ridges. Of the parameters included in the model, the precipitation of driest month and the habitat homogeneity (index related to vegetation types) were variables with highest percentage contributions. Based on our data, in Azerbaijan R. pseudodalmatina is very common species in most places and in some localities is the most numerous amphibian species. The frog does not avoid human-transformed biotopes. The main factors influenced on a local declining of R. pseudodalmatina are the introduction of fishes (including invasive) and the common raccoon, destruction and contamination of suitable breeding water bodies. The most suitable method of conservation of the frog is construction of new ponds for their reproduction and wintering.

Распространение и охрана щитомордника Никольского, Gloydius caucasicus (Reptilia, Viperidae) в Азербайджане

The paper discusses the distribution of Nikolsky’s pitviper, Gloydius caucasicus, in Azerbaijan. According to the authors’ own research results, literature data and museum collections, 32 findings of this species in the Jalilabad (1 locality), Yardymly (11 localities), Lerik (10 localities), Lenkoran (10 localities) and Astara (5 localities) administrative districts are presented. All the known findings of the pitviper are located within 10–1,980 m above sea level in the Lenkoran lowland, the mountain forest belt of the Talysh Mountains, as well as in the mountain-xerophytic steppe of the Yardymly, Deman and Diabar intermountain depressions. The species is recorded on the territory of “Hirkan” National Park and Zuvand regional reserve. G. caucasicus is a rare snake species in Azerbaijan. The main threat to the pitviper in the region is habitat loss. To preserve the species in the northwestern periphery of the habitat, the authors recommend creating a specially protected natural area in the Jalilabad and Yardymly districts on the Alashar-Burovar Ridge. It is also necessary to include G. caucasicus into the Red Data Book of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the category “Vulnerable species” (VU).

Alborz Heritage: geographic distribution and genetic differentiation of the Iranian Paradactylodon (Amphibia: Hynobiidae)

Abstract Paradactylodon, a genus of Hynobiidae, is distributed in mountainous regions of the Middle East. This genus comprises three species, Paradactylodon mustersi (Afghanistan), Paradactylodon persicus, and Paradactylodon gorganensis (Iran). Initially, P. persicus was reported from Talysh Mountains, and afterward, P. gorganensis was described from the eastern Alborz Mountains. Although these two Iranian Paradactylodon species were distinguished based on morphological features, there are arguments about their systematic status. In this contribution, 30 samples of hynobiid salamanders were collected from Talysh and Alborz Mountains and the phylogenetic relationship between the two species was assessed using two mtDNA markers (COI and 16S). Additionally, in order to survey the potential habitat suitability for the species, Species Distribution Models (SDMs) were performed and projected on climate scenarios that reflect current and past (6 ky and 21 ky before present) conditions. Our results indicated that P. gorganensis is nested within P. persicus. Overall, both SDM and molecular analyses suggest that the Iranian Paradactylodon population was affected by the Quaternary glacial period, and according to haplotype networks, haplotype diversity was higher in the western part of the distribution range of the species. Given the low genetic distance among all samples, we suggest P. gorganensis be synonymized with P. persicus. Considering the conservational values and numerous threats that this endemic species is facing, we encourage a revision of the IUCN Red List category of the species immediately.

Mantle vs. crustal fluid sources in the gas discharges from Lesser Caucasus and Talysh Mountains (Azerbaijan) in relation to the regional geotectonic setting

Azerbaijan is famous for the impressive phenomenon of mud volcanism that dominates the landscape of the central sector of the country. The gases released are here strongly CH4 enriched. Conversely, the Lesser Caucasus to the NW host numerous thermo-mineral springs into which CO2-rich gas are bubbling. In the Talysh area, located to SE at the border with Iran, CH4-, N2- and CO2-rich gases are discharged. The chemical and isotopic composition of the free-gases from the Lesser Caucasus and Talysh was investigated to define their origin in a particularly complex geodynamical and geological setting. The CO2 in the Lesser Caucasus was apparently associated with thermometamorphic processes affecting the Jurassic and Cretaceous limestones, at which a minor contribution by a mantle component (helium) was also recognized, likely related to oceanic subduction and/or fluid interactions with the accreted ophiolite complex. The fold zone of Talysh, which represents the northern extension of the Iranian Alborz chain, produced the Early and Middle Eocene to Pleistocene volcanism that was invoked to explain the distinct chemical and isotopic composition of the discharged gases. The CO2-rich gases at Buludul showed helium and carbon isotopic ratios that suggested mixing processes between (i) a crustal component produced by hydrolysis of limestones and interaction with volcano-sedimentary complexes rich in organic material, and (ii) tectonically driven mantle-derived fluids. The relatively high RC/RA values (~6) are indeed comparable with those recorded in the active volcanoes of the region, indicating the presence of degassing magmas at depth.Finally, typical hydrothermal gas compounds, e.g. CO and H2S, were not detected in both the study areas. Unless secondary processes at shallow depth are occurring, the presence of developed hydrothermal systems at regional scale is unlikely.

The Status of Vultures Neophron Percnopterus, Gypaetus Barbatus, Gyps Fulvus, Aegypius Monachus (Accipitriformes) in Azerbaijan

The inventory of vultures was conducted in 2004–2016. Modern areal and nesting places of Griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus), Black vulture (Aegypius monachus), Egyptian vulture, (Neophron percnopterus) and Bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus) in Azerbaijan was determined. Our results reveals that 60.6% (n=20) of nesting locations were found in Lesser Caucasus, 36.3% (n=12) in Great Caucasus, 3.0% (n=1) in Talysh mountains. Over the last 13 years the total known population of these species decreased by 15.3%. Primary reason of this decline is the abandonment of livestock farms and graze lands, accompanied by the expansion of cultivated areas (P = 0.0001) since large domestic ruminants are important source of food for Griffon vultures,. The other important threats to these species were identified as nestling removal, capture and trade of wild birds for exhibiting them in zoological gardens and roadside restaurants, destructing the nests of Black vultures, ecotourism and recreation has impacted on the decrease in the number of Griffon vultures (P =0.0001). In 2016, 61 pairs of Griffon vulture, 59 pairs of Egyptian vulture, 16 pairs of Black vulture, 9 pairs of Bearded vulture were recorded in the territories of Azerbaijan.

Evolutionary history and postglacial colonization of an Asian pit viper (Gloydius halys caucasicus) into Transcaucasia revealed by phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses

It has been generally acknowledged that glacial climates at the time of the Pleistocene altered the patterns of species distributions, prompting latitudinal and altitudinal distribution shifts in several species, including poikilothermic species commonly known for their thermal sensitivity. However, the historical phylogeographic patterns of such species have remained largely unknown. Here, we present the historical biogeographic, phylogenetic, and phylogeographic relationships of the Caucasian pit viper, G. h. caucasicus, based on two mtDNA (cyt b and ND4) and one nDNA (c-mos) genes. This pit viper represents the westernmost member of the Crotalinae subfamily in the Palearctic and occurs in a variety of habitats, from 30 m to 3,000 m above sea level. In Iran, it is distributed on the northern and southern slopes of the Alborz Mountains, rendering it a target for phylogenetic and phylogeographic studies of a terrestrial poikilothermic animal. Our study identified four Iranian lineages of G. h. caucasicus along the northeastern to northwestern slopes of the Alborz Mountains and southern Azerbaijan (Talysh Mountains). Diversification of the Iranian lineages highlights population expansion and subsequent isolation into four plausible refugial areas during the Quaternary paleo-climatic oscillations, confirmed by our molecular dating and historical biogeographic analyses. The results of coalescence-based simulations support the incursion of the species from northeastern Iran to the western end of the Alborz, and then toward Transcaucasia via two directions: northern and southern slopes of the Alborz Mountains. Furthermore, our results clearly implied that G. h. caucasicus should be elevated to species rank and further referred to as G. caucasicus (Nikolsky, 1916).

Notes on study of age and growth of the Hyrcanian frog, <i>Rana pseudodalmatina</i> Eiselt et Schmidtler, 1971 in the Talysh Mountains

The article presents the first results of a study of age and growth of the Hyrcanian frog, Rana pseudodalmatina in the Talysh Mountains. The animals were caught in the first Decade of March 2011 in Sym village in Astara District of Azerbaijan. The age was determined by a skeletochronological analysis of clipped phalanges of the third toe of hind limb. Preparations were made and examined with well-visible thick sections of 56 males and 7 females. Males in the sample were 1 – 5 years old and females were 2 – 4 years old. The average age of males was 3.2 years and 3.7 years of females. Most of studied frogs were specimens in the age of three and four years. The most intensive growth of the Hyrcanian frog occurs before reaching sexual maturity. A male at the age of one year had a body length equal to 309.8% of the average length of the metamorphs from the same reservoir, two-year-old males were 328.8 – 341.3%, three-year-olds were 271.7 – 385.9%, four-year-olds were 347.8 – 388.6%, five-year — 369.6 – 421.2%. The relative length of a two-year-old female was 342.4%, three-year-old females — 391.3 – 432.1, four-year-olds — 383.2 – 397.8%.

Notes on study of age and growth of the Hyrcanian frog, Rana pseudodalmatina Eiselt et Schmidtler, 1971 in the Talysh Mountains

The article presents the first results of a study of age and growth of the Hyrcanian frog, Rana pseudodalmatina in the Talysh Mountains. The animals were caught in the first Decade of March 2011 in Sym village in Astara District of Azerbaijan. The age was determined by a skeletochronological analysis of clipped phalanges of the third toe of hind limb. Preparations were made and examined with well-visible thick sections of 56 males and 7 females. Males in the sample were 1 – 5 years old and females were 2 – 4 years old. The average age of males was 3.2 years and 3.7 years of females. Most of studied frogs were specimens in the age of three and four years. The most intensive growth of the Hyrcanian frog occurs before reaching sexual maturity. A male at the age of one year had a body length equal to 309.8% of the average length of the metamorphs from the same reservoir, two-year-old males were 328.8 – 341.3%, three-year-olds were 271.7 – 385.9%, four-year-olds were 347.8 – 388.6%, five-year — 369.6 – 421.2%. The relative length of a two-year-old female was 342.4%, three-year-old females — 391.3 – 432.1, four-year-olds — 383.2 – 397.8%.

Parasite-host relationships of the ixodid tick Ixodes Ricinus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Hyrcanian meadow lizard Darevskia practicola hyrcanica (Tuniyev, Doronin, Kidov et Tuniyev, 2011) in Talysh Mountains (Southeastern Azerbaijan)

The purpose of the research: to identify features of the parasite-host relations of the European common tick, Ixodes ricinus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Hyrcanian meadow lizard, Darevskia praticola hyrcanica (Tuniyev, Doronin, Kidov, et Tuniyev), 2011 in spring period. Materials and methods. The study was carried out in May 2016 in the Gadazyghahi natural boundaries in Astara region of Azerbaijan. The animals were caught on the routes, divided into three mature groups (adult females, males and juvenile lizards) and examined for the presence of ticks. Frequency of occurrence, abundance and location of parasites were determined according to standard methods. Localization of parasites on lizards’ body was defined by the standard scheme. Results and discussion. Only larvae and nymphs of the I. ricinus were found on the lizards. Ticks were found only on 32 lizards of 123 examined. The distribution of ticks in year-old lizards was 10,8%, adult females 28,6%, and adult males 35,3%. The distribution of feeding ticks is aggregated: 26 % of examined lizards were feeders for 100% of ticks. Higher abundance of parasites per one animal was observed in males (on average 3,1±0,78 ticks on one male and 1,6±0,36 on one female). The lowest value of parasite abundance was defined on one-year-old animals (no more than one tick per lizard). The ticks were attached on the forelegs, neck and sides of lizards. 89% of ticks were located under the forelegs. Domestic animals are the main feeders of imago I. ricinus, and the lizards provide feeding for larvae and nymphs.

Quantifying Arabia–Eurasia convergence accommodated in the Greater Caucasus by paleomagnetic reconstruction

Since the late Eocene, convergence and subsequent collision between Arabia and Eurasia was accommodated both in the overriding Eurasian plate forming the Greater Caucasus orogen and the Iranian plateau, and by subduction and accretion of the Neotethys and Arabian margin forming the East Anatolian plateau and the Zagros. To quantify how much Arabia–Eurasia convergence was accommodated in the Greater Caucasus region, we here provide new paleomagnetic results from 97 volcanic sites (∼500 samples) in the Talysh Mountains of NW Iran, that show ∼15° net clockwise rotation relative to Eurasia since the Eocene. We apply a first-order kinematic restoration of the northward convex orocline that formed to the south of the Greater Caucasus, integrating our new data with previously published constraints on rotations of the Eastern Pontides and Lesser Caucasus. This suggests that north of the Talysh ∼120 km of convergence must have been accommodated. North of the Eastern Pontides and Lesser Caucasus this is significantly more: 200–280 km. Our reconstruction independently confirms previous Caucasus convergence estimates. Moreover, we show for the first time a sharp contrast of convergence between the Lesser Caucasus and the Talysh. This implies that the ancient Paleozoic–Mesozoic transform plate boundary, preserved between the Iranian and East-Anatolian plateaus, was likely reactivated as a right-lateral transform fault since late Eocene time.

First Map of Residential Indoor Radon Measurements in Azerbaijan.

This article describes results of the first measurements of indoor radon concentrations in Azerbaijan, including description of the methodology and the mathematical and statistical processing of the results obtained. Measured radon concentrations varied considerably: from almost radon-free houses to around 1100 Bq m-3. However, only ~7% of the total number of measurements exceeded the maximum permissible concentrations. Based on these data, maps of the distribution of volumetric activity and elevated indoor radon concentrations in Azerbaijan were created. These maps reflect a mosaic character of distribution of radon and enhanced values that are confined to seismically active areas at the intersection of an active West Caspian fault with sub-latitudinal faults along the Great and Lesser Caucasus and the Talysh mountains. Spatial correlation of radon and temperature behavior is also described. The data gathered on residential indoor radon have been integrated into the European Indoor Radon Map.