CBD Fourth National Report - Azerbaijan (English version)

Country Study on Biodiversity of 

Azerbaijan Republic 

Fourth National Report to 

Convention of Biological Diversity 

Baku - 2010

This document has been prepared under requirements of the Convention of Biological 

Diversity and involves current status of biological diversity in the territory of Azerbaijan 

Republic and factors impacted upon it. 

The report has been drafted in the presence of all concerned parties and it based upon the 

opinions and proposals of the related specialists. 

Therefore, a deep gratitude is expressed to authors staff of the First National Report on the 

Convention of Biological Diversity which plays as a framework document, for preparation of 

the Second National Report on the Convention of Biological Diversity. 

Views and standpoints suggested in this collection express opinions of the authors and could 

not coincide with opinions of the United Nations or the United Nations Development 

Programme.

Country Study on Biodiversity and Fourth National Report 

The Republic of Azerbaijan 

Contents 

Introduction (Country Context and Socio-economic context)………………7 

Chapter 1. Overview of Biodiversity Status, Trends and Treats..................23 

1.1. Status of Biodiversity and Ecosystems...............................................................24 

1.1.1. Status and quality of research on ecosystems and species......................24 

1.1.2. Biogeography..........................................................................................24 

1.1.3. Status review of ecosystems....................................................................25 

1.1.4. Status review of plant communities and habitats....................................30 

1.1.4.1. Description of key plant communities......................................30 

1.1.4.2. Rare, endemic or threatened plant communities habitats........31 

1.1.5. Status review of species...........................................................................31 

1.1.5.1. Microorganisms........................................................................31 

1.1.5.2. Protozoa....................................................................................31 

1.1.5.3. Fungi.........................................................................................32 

1.1.5.4. Flora..........................................................................................33 

1.1.5.5. Fauna........................................................................................34 

1.1.6. Key threats to biodiversity.......................................................................39 

1.1.6.1. Habitat loss and modification..................................................39 

1.1.6.2. Over-use of biological and natural resources..........................40 

1.1.6.3. Pollution...................................................................................43 

1.1.6.4. Introduced and invasive species...............................................48 

1.1.6.5. Natural pathogens....................................................................49 

1.1.6.6. Climate change and natural disasters......................................50 

1.2. Problem Analysis.................................................................................................54 

1.2.1. Current status of biodiversity..................................................................54 

1.2.2. Direct causes of biodiversity loss............................................................55 

1.2.3. Underlying causes of biodiversity loss...................................................56 

1.2.4. Key sectors affecting biodiversity..........................................................57 

1.2.5. Restrictions on protection process..........................................................58 

1.2.6. Opportunities for biodiversity conservation...........................................58 

1.2.7. Further phases.........................................................................................59 

Chapter 2. Current Status of National Biodiversity Strategies and Action 

Plans……………………………………………………………………………60 

2.1. Legislation and policy on use and protection of biodiversity...........................61 

2.1.1. Protection of the environment and legislation regulating this sphere.....61 

2.1.2. Laws on protected areas and sites...........................................................62 

2.1.3. Laws on flora and fauna.................................................................63 

2.1.4. Land use and legislation for development...........................................................64 

2.1.5. Laws stipulating legal bases for prevention of environmental 

pollution……………………………………………………………………….65 

2.1.6. Legislation on other spheres impacting upon biodiversity......................65 

2.1.7. International agreements and conventions..............................................66 

2.2. Existing programmes for biodiversity conservation.........................................67 

2.2.1. Biodiversity inventory, monitoring and research....................................67 

2.2.2. Environmental educational programmes and teaching............................67 

2.2.3. Public Awareness....................................................................................68 

2.2.4. Planning and intervention for conservation and restoration....................68 

2.2.5. International Projects...............................................................................69 

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2.3. Summary of existing measures, capacity and experience for biodiversity 

management.............................................................................................................................70 

Chapter 3. Sectoral and cross-sectoral integration or mainstreaming of 

biodiversity considerations................................................................................71 

3.1. Use and values of biodiversity.............................................................................72 

31.1. Agrobiodiversity......................................................................................72 

3.1.1.1. Crops under cultivation............................................................72 

3.1.1.2. Wild ancestors of crops............................................................73 

3.1.1.3. Livestock diversity....................................................................74 

3.1.1.4. Wild relatives of domesticated livestock..................................74 

3.1.2. Wild species of economic importance....................................................75 

3.1.2.1. Use of wild plants.....................................................................75 

3.1.2.2. Use of wild animals..................................................................77 

3.1.2.3. Evaluation of sustainability of use of wild species...................78 

3.1.3. Use of biodiversity for biotechnology and genetic collections.............. 78 

3.1.4. Indirect uses of biodiversity....................................................................79 

3.1.5. Cultural or traditional values of biodiversity...........................................79 

3.1.5.1. Wildlife and national cuisine....................................................79 

3.1.5.2. Arts, folklore, and music...........................................................79 

3.1.5.3. Spiritual values of biodiversity.................................................80 

3.1.5.4. Recreation and biodiversity......................................................80 

3.2. Key economic sectors affecting biodiversity.....................................................81 

3.2.1. Agriculture...............................................................................................81 

3.2.2. Forestry....................................................................................................86 

3.2.3. Fisheries...................................................................................................88 

3.2.4. Industry....................................................................................................89 

3.2.5. Construction............................................................................................91 

3.2.6. Mining industry..................................................................................... .92 

3.2.7. Energy and oil extraction........................................................................ 95 

3.2.8. Transport..................................................................................................97 

3.2.9. Tourism....................................................................................................98 

Chapter 4. Conclusions: Progress Towards the 2010 Target and 

Implementation of the Strategic Plan ............. ………………………….….100 

4.1. Protected areas system.......................................................................................101 

4.1.1. Description of status, location and scope of protected areas.................101 

4.1.2. Evaluation of gaps in protected areas system........................................106 

4.2. Conservation outside Protected Areas............................................................ 107 

4.2.1. In situ conservation measures in the wider landscape...........................107 

4.2.2. Ex situ conservation..............................................................................107 

4.3. Organizations involved in biodiversity conservation and management.......108 

4.3.1. Government structures and agencies.....................................................108 

4.3.2. Non-governmental organisations...........................................................109 

4.3.3. Business and the private sector..............................................................109 

Appendices. .......................................................................................... 111 

Appendix 1…………………………………………………………………....112 

Appendix 2…………………………………………………………………....113 

Appendix 3…………………………………………………………………....115 

Appendix 4…………………………………………………………………....144 

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Annexes……………………………………………………………………….145 

Annex 1.1.............................................................................................. 146 

Annex 2.1.............................................................................................. 147 

Annex 2.2.............................................................................................. 148 

Annex 2.3 ............................................................................................. 149 

Annex 2.4.............................................................................................. 150 

Annex 3.1.............................................................................................. 151 

Annex 4.1.............................................................................................. 155 

Annex 4.2 ............................................................................................. 156 

Annex 4.3.............................................................................................. 157 

Annex 5.1.............................................................................................. 158 

Annex 6.1 ............................................................................................. 159 

Annex 6.2.............................................................................................. 159 

Annex 6.3.............................................................................................. 159 

Annex 6.4.............................................................................................. 160 

Annex 7.1.............................................................................................. 160 

Annex 8.1 ............................................................................................. 161 

Annex 9.1.............................................................................................. 163 

Annex 9.2 ............................................................................................. 164 

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Abbreviations 

AIOC Azerbaijan International Operating Company 

ANAS Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences 

BP British Petroleum 

BTC Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan Pipeline Route 

CBD The Convention on Biological Diversity 

CIS Commonwealth of Independent States 

CITES The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild 

Fauna and Flora 

GDP Gross Domestic Product 

GEF Global Environment Facility 

IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature - The World Conservation 

Union 

NGO Non-Government Organization 

SOCAR State Oil Company of the Azerbaijan Republic 

TRACECA Transport Corridor Europe-Caucasus-Asia 

UN United Nations 

UNDP United Nations Development Program 

UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization 

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INTRODUCTION 

Worldwide development of economy and agriculture in the current period and daily 

increasing direct and circumstantial pressures to the environment against demographic 

problems lead to violation of the natural evolution and generally, to degradation of ecosystem 

by destructive effects to biological masses of the planet as well as the region which had been 

formed over million years. In this situation protection of the environment and especially of 

biological diversity essential for wildlife and, study and elimination of its exhaustion hazards 

are very important. 

Geographic location, climate types of our country and other natural factors caused to 

generation of rich and various biological diversity elements in the territory of Azerbaijan 

Republic. However increased demand for nature and biological diversity, sometimes adverse 

effects of human activity and rate of economic growth observed at the present can cause to 

depletion of species diversity and to complete destruction of separate species by serious 

impacts upon countrywide biological diversity as it appeared in many nations throughout the 

world. 

In this situation adherence and joining to internationally nature conservation actions and 

assumption of countrywide effective measures alongside with global cooperation are very 

significant. 

It is evident that world community made considerable efforts towards preservation and 

sustainable use of natural resources since the second half of XX century. In particular, 

adoption of the Convention of Biological Diversity in the Environment and Development 

Conference of the United Nations held in Rio de Janeiro city of Brasilia in 1992 and 

ratification of the aforesaid Convention by Azerbaijan Republic on March 2000 played an 

unexampled role in preservation and maintenance of valuable and exotic biological diversity 

resources of our country. In this respect, regular actions taken by the Government of 

Azerbaijan, especially “National Strategy on protection and sustainable use of biological 

diversity in Azerbaijan Republic and Action Plan” which approved by Decree №1368 dated 

March 24, 2006 of the President of Azerbaijan Republic can be mentioned regarding 

performance of obligations and commitments stipulated by the Convention. The above 

mentioned document paved wide-range prospects on several spheres such as sustainable 

protection of biological diversity, restoration of resources under exhaustion and determination 

and conservation of priority ecosystems the territory of the country. At the same time, 

declaration of 2010 by the President as an “Ecology year” and the Presidential Decree on 

large-scale actions to be realized hereof, obviously prove serious efforts made in focusing of 

this sector by the state and government officials and implementation of sustainable nature 

protection measures. 

The submitted document reflects status of execution of requirements of the Convention of 

Biological Diversity including analysis of issues such as countrywide present situation of 

biological diversity within the last 7 years, achievements obtained in this line and challenges, 

direct and indirect impacts effected upon biodiversity and elimination of them. 

“The Fourth National Report on the Convention of Biological Diversity” has been 

accomplished as a result of information and analysis submitted by specialists of the Ministry 

of Ecology and Natural Resources which is functioning as a proper executive power in the 

management of environment and natural resources of Azerbaijan Republic, and related 

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authorities and Committees and specialized scientific institutions. There used latest data, 

statistics and scientific study outcomes in the preparation of IV National Report. 

Country Context 

Geographic location, borders and land area 

The Republic of Azerbaijan is an ancient country, situated between the continents of Europe 

and Asia in the southeast of the Caucasus region. It is located on the western shores of the 

Caspian, to the northwest of the Persian Plateau. It has an area of 86,600 km 2 , located 

between 38’24” and 41’54” latitude North, and between 50’51” 44’46” longitude East. It is 

in a favourable geo-political location, bordering five countries; the Dagestan Republic of the 

Russian Federation in the north (289 km of border length), Georgia in the north-west (340 

km), the Republic of Armenia (766 km) and Turkey (11 km) in the west, and the Islamic 

Republic of Iran (432 km) in the south. There is approximately 800 km of coastline along the 

Caspian shore in the east. The capital city of Azerbaijan is Baku, a port city, located on the 

Absheron peninsula on the shores of the Caspian Sea. 

A separate, physically isolated, area of land– the Autonomous Republic of Nachichevan - is 

situated in the southwest of the Lesser Caucasus, in a typically mountainous area. It has 

borders with Iran (163 km, some of which lies along the Araz River), Turkey (11 km) and 

Armenia (224 km). Nachichevan covers some 5,362 km 2 and at its widest the territory 

stretches 158 km (from north-east to south-west). 

Figure 1.1 –Topography of the Republic of Azerbaijan 

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Physical geography and topography 

The Republic of Azerbaijan is situated in the Alp-Himalayan mountain belt. The three 

mountain ranges are the Greater and Lesser Caucasus, and the Talysh Mountains, together 

covering approximately 40% of the country. The highest point in the country is on Mount 

Bazarduzu (4,485 m above sea level) situated in the Greater Caucasus. Lowlands and plains 

make up the other 60% of the country. The average height of the country is 657 m above sea 

level, however 18% of the country is below sea level (see Map 1). Azerbaijan is located in an 

active seismic zone, with particularly high activity in the southern part of the Greater 

Caucasus, the Ganja region in the Lesser Caucasus, and in the Autonomous Republic of 

Nachichevan. 

Azerbaijan does not extend over a large geographical area, and much of the differentiation of 

landscapes is due to the variation of altitude. Landscapes are influenced by climate, soil, and 

habitats that change with increasing altitude. Landscapes replace each other with height, 

graduating from lowland plains, semi desert, steppe, forest, alpine meadow to subnival 

communities at the greatest heights of the mountains, creating landscape zones at different 

altitudes. This altitudinal zonation is naturally disordered in the Lankoran region as a result 

of the Talysh mountains where semi arid landscapes replace the forest landscapes normal in 

the mountains. In Nakhichevan, forests develop in islands due to local climatic conditions. 

The highest point in Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic is Gapijig mountain (3,906 m). 

Other important mountain ranges include the Zangazur and Daralayaz ranges in the north-east 

of the region, where there are a number of peaks over 3,000 m. A third of the territory of 

Nakhichevan is covered by grassland/steppe, totalling some 172 km 2 , of which some 10,000 

ha is salinated. 

Water resources 

The main sources of water in Azerbaijan are the surface waters. However, only 24 of the 8350 

rivers are greater than 100 km in length. All the rivers drain into the Caspian in the east of the 

country, through three main river basins - the Caspian Basin, (rivers draining directly into the 

Caspian), the Kura basin (in western and central Azerbaijan) and the Araz basin. The average 

density of river networks is 0.39 km per km 2 , with most of the rivers occurring in the Kura 

basin. 

Of the 300 natural lakes in Azerbaijan, only six cover more than 10km 2 of land area. The 

total area of these six lakes makes up 83 % (250 km 2 ) of the total lake area. The lakes of the 

Kura and Araz basins (in the lowlands) are affected by upstream water management, causing 

an increase in salinity (5000-13000 mg/L), and a reduction in fish populations. Lakes on the 

Absheron Peninsula (on the shores of the Caspian) have become salinated as a result of 

upstream management and polluted by industrial and domestic waste (especially from oil 

fields). In addition, the number and size of lakes in this area are being artificially increased. 

Lakes in the mountainous area tend to be small (the total area of the 90 mountain lakes is 2 

km 2 ), but face few anthropogenic threats, because of their distance from settlements and 

industry. 

In the last 40-50 years many water reservoirs have increased five-fold, so that they now cover 

1070 km 2 . Total volume of these artificial lakes is 22.66 km 3 , but only 11.24 km 3 is usable 

water. The biggest of these by far is Mingachevir Reservoir, located along the River Kura 

which has a total volume of 16 km 3 and covers some 625km 2 . The water in reservoirs is used 

primarily for electricity production and irrigation purposes. A dense network of channels 

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irrigates more than 1300 ha of drought prone land. The channels also carry clean water to a 

number of settlements, although approximately 40% of fresh water in Azerbaijan is taken 

from subsoil reserves. 

As more than of territory of Azerbaijan Republic situated in arid climate condition, a lack of 

water appeared here permanently. Demand for water is not same in separate parts of Kura 

river due to varied nature and diversified agriculture along its basin. 

Key water facilities related to hydrographic network - rivers, lakes and water reservoirs were 

allotted irregularly in different natural provinces of Azerbaijan Republic. 

Azerbaijan remains behind South Caucasus states subject to index of ground water resources 

per km 2 of area and per capita of population. So that 62% of total water reserve (310 bln. m 3 ) 

of South Caucasus is shared by Georgia, 28% by Armenia and only 10% by Azerbaijan. 

Countrywide water reserves total to average 35 bln. m 3 that out of 5 bln. m 3 are underground 

water. No sufficient water reserve exists in Azerbaijan in order to meet demand of the 

population for potable water and needs of agriculture. 

Within the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic there are around 400 water bodies, all 

associated with the Araz basin. The larger rivers in the territory are the Araz, Shargi 

Arpachay, Nakhichevanchay and Gilanchay. The area supports a number of natural lakes 

(including Batabat, Ganligol, Goy gol, and Salvarti gol) as well as reservoirs (including the 

Araz reservoir). The area also supported a number of kahrizes (systems of subterranean 

irrigation canals), although the number has declined significantly from 400 to around 182, and 

there is a danger that further springs will be lost. 

(See: Annex 1.1) 

Total 35 billion m 3 

Including underground water resources 

: 5 billion m 3 

70% of surface waters are formed outside of Azerbaijan 

Annual water deficit 4 billion m 3 

62% 

Current status of water resources 

Use of water 

welfare-drinking water 

for manufacture 

irrigation and agriculture 

Climate 

Azerbaijan is a country of varied climates, although it is predominately subtropical. On 

average, there are 1900-2900 hours of sunshine annually (approximately 5-8 hours daily 

sunshine). In the lowlands, summers are hot, and winters are moderate, however in the 

10 

7% 

31% 

2009 

770



mountains, the summers are cooler, and temperatures in the mountains can reach negative 

figures. Recorded temperatures have reached a maximum of +43 °C, and minimum of -17°C. 

Humidity tends to be low, although it varies across the country. Annual rainfall on the 

Absheron peninsular in the west varies between 150-200 mm, whilst in the foothills of the 

Talysh Mountains, it averages 1600-1700mm per year. There is less than 400 mm of rainfall 

each year over 65% of the country. In these semi-desert and dry steppe areas, agriculture is 

only possible through artificial irrigation. 

The Autonomous Republic of Nakhichevan has a particularly continental climate, with over 

2800 hours of sunshine annually recorded in the Araz steppes. Rainfall in Nakhichevan varies 

between 200 and 600 mm, with low humidity throughout. Minimum and maximum recorded 

temperatures in the region are -17 0 C and +43 0 C respectively. The area is characterised by hot 

dry winds, which blow 50-70 days of the year (above 1,000 m). 

Socio-economic context 

History of human settlement and archaeology 

Azerbaijan has a proud and long history. As an ancient centre of civilization, it has a great 

cultural heritage created over thousands of years. Prehistoric people inhabited the region, and 

evidence of their rock paintings and settlements still survives today. Archaeological evidence 

in caves and at other monuments (notably the Azikh cave) has shown evidence that some of 

the oldest modern humans inhabited Azerbaijan during the Stone Age. 

Evidence of early cities, forts, religious buildings, early farming and a legacy of legends and 

stories demonstrate the long history of human settlement in the Autonomous Republic of 

Nakhichevan. Early towns such as Kultapa and Gilan were located in this area, and Kultapa 

has proved of particular archaeological interest. 

Tribes in the region formed in the third 

Picture 

millennium BC, and political organisations 

were created in the first millennium BC. The 

state of Manna was established during the 

ninth century BC with a well-developed 

cultural and economic basis. At this time the 

people believed in natural phenomena, the sun 

and the moon. In the first part of the sixth 

century BC, Manna was conquered by the 

Midiya state. During this period, the main 

religion was Zoroastrianism, based around the 

natural gas and oil sources that ignited as they 

escaped from the ground. The states of Albania and Atropeana played important roles in 

restoring the territory as an independent state. Indeed, the word Azerbaijan is a derivation of 

Atropat, an Atropeanan ruler from this period. From the third to the fifth centuries, the state 

of Azerbaijan strengthened, and Christianity began to spread widely among Azeris. Islam 

became the main religion in the country when Arabs conquered Azerbaijan in the eighth 

century. 

During the middle ages, states such as Shirvanshah, Eldagizler, Garagoyunlu, Aggoyunlu, 

Safaviler were formed within the territory of Azerbaijan. There was a struggle by the 

neighbouring countries to occupy these territories resulting in the disruption of the stability of 

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Azerbaijan, and in the 18th century, independent and semi-independent states formed, with 

the state of Hanliglar also becoming part of Azerbaijan. At the end of the 18 th and the 

beginning of the 19 th centuries the antagonism and struggle amongst Iran, Turkey and Russia 

for occupation of Azerbaijan increased. As a result, Russia and Iran signed the Treaty of 

Turkmenchay in 1828, marking the end of fighting between the countries. Azerbaijan and its 

population were divided into two parts: the northern part was occupied by Russia and 

southern part by Iran. 

In 1917, the fall of the monarchy in Russia meant that conditions became favourable for the 

establishment of the national liberation movement in Azerbaijan. On the 28th May 1918, 

Azerbaijan gained its independence and the independent Republic of Azerbaijan was 

declared. It existed for only 23 months, as on the 28 th April 1920, Azerbaijan lost its 

independence when the 11th Red Army occupied its territories. Azerbaijan only regained its 

independent status after the collapse of the Soviet empire in 1991. 

Demographic statistics of the country territory 

Azerbaijan Republic consists of 1 Autonomous Republic, 66 regions, 77 cities, 13 districts, 

258 settlements, 1700 rural districts and 4253 rural settlements. 

Number of countrywide population totalled to 8896.9 thousand people at the beginning of 

2009 against 8349.0 thousand people at the beginning of 2004 by increasing 6.6% within the 

last 6 years. At the same time, number of urban population reached to 4818.3 thousand people 

from 4403.6 thousand by increasing 9.4%, but number of rural population reached to 4078.6 

thousand people from 3945.4 thousand by increasing 3.4%. At the present, 54.2% of 

countrywide population inhabited in urban area and 45.8 % in rural area. 49% of the 

population is comprised by men, 51% by women. 1041 women are shared by per 1000 men in 

Azerbaijan. 

Number of countrywide population reached to 8974.0 thousand people up to October 1, 2009 

thus it increased as 77 thousand people or 0.9 percent within nine months. Generally, rise in 

number of the country population occurs subject to both natural and migration increase in the 

last years. 

2014.1 thousand people or 22.6% of the population was comprised by persons under age of 

labor ability, 6049.9 thousand people (68.0%) by age of labor ability and 832.9 thousand 

people (9.4%) over age of labor ability for the beginning of 2009. These indices were 26.4, 

64.2 and 9.4 accordingly for the beginning of 2004. 

Average 140 thousand infants are born in a year or approximately 384 new small citizens in a 

day in the country within the past 6 years. Birth rate for 2008 subject to per 1000 persons of 

the population totalled to 17.8 persons against 14.0 in 2003, but death rate totalled to 6.2 

persons against 6.0. Natural increase rate reached to 11.6 from 8.0 subject to per 1000 persons 

of the population in comparison with 2003. At the present, approximate two born children are 

shared within the life span of per woman average. 

1.7 thousand infants died in 2008 and child mortality rate declined to 11.4 from 15.5 subject 

to per 1000 live-born babies as compared with 2003. Maternal death per 100000 live-born 

babies totalled to 26.3 in 2008. Death rate is reflected in life expectancy analysis. This rate 

totalled to 72.6 age in past year, including 69.9 age for men and 75.4 age for women. 

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80.0 thousand marriages were registered and 7.9 thousand marriages were dissolved in the 

country within 2008. Number of marriages reached to 9.3 from 6.9 and number of 

divorcements increased to 0.9 from 0.8 subject to per 1000 persons of the population as 

compared with 2003. 

According to official information of Chief Employment Department, 44481 persons became 

officially unemployed in 2008, but 42183 persons up to November 1, 2009. 

According to these data, official unemployment rate totalled to 1.0% in both two periods. 

Social and economic condition 

The economy of Azerbaijan Republic and generally social-economic condition were 

characterized in high inflation rate at the beginning of 1990th years. Internal unstable political 

conditon did not enable to carry out economic reforms. Breakdown of countrywide economy 

caused to declining of living standards of the population. So that real volume of Gross 

Domestic Product totalled to 41.9 percent in 1995 as compared with 1990 (at the beginning of 

1990). 

The dissolution was prevented as from 1995 thanks to large-scale economic reforms 

implemented successfully under the governance of Heydar Aliyev, nationwide leader of 

Azerbaijan Republic. There achieved a number of positive changes resulted from execution of 

actions for pursuance of policy on fixed budget, finance-credit, tax and customs and, 

liberalization of prices, foreign economic activity and currency market and transformation of 

property. So that real volume of Gross Domestic Product increased as 2.6 times in the years of 

2003-2008. The volume of Gross Domestic Product totalled to 38005.7 million Manat, 

volume per capita was equivalent to 4439.9 Manat in 2008. 

Nevertheless economic growth occurred within these years resulted in a rise of living 

standards of the population generally, certain shortages and deficiencies still exist in this 

sphere and execution of proper actions is planned for elimination of them. In this standpoint, 

adequate social policy is being pursued towards supporting of key strategic goals for 

promotion of social welfare, provision of vulnerable groups with more targeted social 

assistance, improvement of provision of major health and education services and aid to 

refugees and internally displaced peoples. 

According to data of the Ministry of Economic Development, volume of Gross Domestic 

Product totalled to 96.6% in 2005 as compared with 1990 and to 115.9% in 2006 prevailing 

the rate of 1990. 

Share of private sector in countrywide economy enhanced considerably as a result of 

measures taken by the state and government towards privatization of state property and 

development of entrepreneurship. 

Share of nongovernmental sector in the GDP increased to 73.3% in 2003 and to 84.5% in 

2008 resulted from implementation of privatization programmes as well as development of 

private ownership. Key target of social-economic policy of the Government of Azerbaijan for 

near 3-4 years aims to ensure dynamic growth of countrywide economy and necessary living 

standards of the population through pursuance of state policy provided for poverty reduction. 

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Gross Domestic Product was output to the amount of 7146.5 million Manat in 2003, 8530.2 

million Manat in 2004, 12522.5 million Manat in 2005 and 18746.2 million Manat in 2006 in 

the republic. Real growth rate of the GDP totalled to 111.2%, 126.4%, 134.5% and 110.9% 

accordingly within these years. 

It should be noted that there took place a number of changes in structure of the GDP in midterm 

plan. So that share of industry in the GDP increased to 57.4% in 2008 as compared with 

37.3% in 2003 and totalled to 49.9% within ten months of 2009. This growth emerged from 

operation of I phase and putting onstream of II phase of Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli fields, 

construction of oil export pipeline of Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan and commissioning of gas export 

pipeline of Baku-Tbilisi-Arzurum in the present period. Alongside with the above, share of 

construction sector in the GDP reached to 7.6-8.1% within ten months of 2008-2009 on 

account of these projects. Shares of agriculture, trade, transport, communication sectors in the 

GDP totalled to accordingly 5.8%, 5.3%, 5.1% and 1.9% in 2008 and 6.1%, 6.9%, 6.2% and 

2% within ten months of 2009. 

More than 43.7 billion USD was invested upon countrywide economy on account of all 

sources over the past 4 years. 20.2 billion USD (46.2%) of the investments are shared by 

internal sources and 23.5 billion USD (53.8%) by external sources. The investments focused 

on oil sector constitutes 62.1% (14.6 billion USD) of overall foreign investments. 

Foreign trade turnover totalled to 99.2 billion USD in the years of 2003-2008, including 

export to 70.7 billion USD and import to 28.5 billion USD. Total value of positive trade 

balance (external surplus) generated within these years equalled to 42.2 billion USD. 

Social security system. Improvement of social welfare of the population is one of the key 

lines of social policy pursued in the country. A priority is given to targeted principle and 

improvement of pensions, benefits and allowances for low-income families, persons who lost 

householders (heads of families) and martyr’s families towards measures taken in this 

direction. 

The Laws of Azerbaijan Republic “On occupational pensions” and “On social allowances” 

adopted on February 7, 2006, provide for bases of creation of employment pension and social 

allowance rights of countrywide citizens, rules for exercise of these rights and and ensuring 

system of them. 

Occupational pension for age and invalidity consists of base, insurance and accumulation 

parts, occupational benefit for loss of householder is comprised by base and insurance parts. 

There registered 1298.9 thousand pensioners (14.4% of the population) at social security 

agencies up to October 1, 2009 that 65% of them draw pension for age, 24% for invalidity 

and 11% for loss of householder. Average amount of assigned monthly pensions totalled to 

99.93 Manat and constituted 34% of average monthly salary. There approved “State 

Programme on development of insurance-pension system in Azerbaijan Republic in the years 

of 2009-2015” in order to ensure sustainable and dynamic development insurance-pension 

system and a Decree “On indexation of insurance part of occupational pensions” was signed 

for promotion of the pensioners’ social welfare and insurance parts of monthly pension 

amounts were increased regarding all kinds of occupational pensions as from January 1, 2009. 

Various social allowances and benefits are provided for disadvantaged families by the state in 

order to improve welfare and enhance social security of them. 291.3 thousand persons drew 

social allowances and benefits up to October 1, 2009. Number of allowance beneficiaries 

14 

2009



totalled to 17.8 thousand persons for age, 92.2 thousand persons for invalidity, 31.7 thousand 

persons for loss of householders and number of disabled children under 18 age equalled to 

58.4 thousand persons for disabled children benefit. 

Also, social allowances are granted to children of low-income families. There assigned 

allowances and benefits to 22.4 thousand children in 11.5 thousand families up to October 1, 

2009. Such allowances and benefits were received by children of martyr’s families, disabled 

war veterans, I and II category Chernobyl invalids and active military servicemen. There 

assigned allowances and benefits to 991 caretakers and guardians of orphans and uncared-for 

children. 

Disadvantaged families are given targeted state social assistance as from July 1, 2006 

according to Law “On targeted state social assistance” dated October 21, 2005 of Azerbaijan 

Republic. 

691.1 thousand members of 151.6 thousand families in the country received targeted state 

social assistance and hereof, 351.3 thousand persons were comprised by women, 339.3 

thousand persons by children for October 1, 2009. 

Education system. There exist high literacy rate (98.8%), high school attendance and good 

teacher- pupil ratio (1:10) in the education system of Azerbaijan Republic. Official secondary 

education is 11-year, free and compulsory. Primary education contains first 4 years of this 

period. As evident from the studies that declining in school attendance ratio of the children is 

more distinctive in 8-11th classes. Number of vocational education schools and pupils 

studying at them reduced within the past ten years. While 82188 pupils studied at 176 

vocational education schools in 1990, 25184 pupils studied at 109 vocational education 

schools up to the beginning of 2009. Number of students studying in high education 

institutions within 2008-2009 academic year increased to 119137 persons as compared with 

107945 persons in 1991-1992 school year. 

In general, key parameters in the education sector are satisfactory, ecological education and 

training has not been established in necessary level. The existing curriculum and teaching aids 

do not reflect this sector in compliance with up-to-date requirements. 

Public health system. The actions planned by the state and government are carried out 

successfully for development of the medicine and safeguard of public health. New hospitals, 

diagnostic centres and ambulatory-polyclinics outfit with modern equipment and facilities 

have been constructed and handed over, there carried out capital repair works in medical 

institutions and, old equipment and facilities are replaced with new ones. At the same time, 

the population have been rendered free medical services in treatment-medical care institutions 

which are contained in structure of the Ministry of Health and financed by state budget since 

February 1, 2008. 

Execution of 9 State Programmes adopted on priority spheres of public health is being 

continued within the last years. According to these Programmes patients suffered from 

diabetes, chronic kidney deficiency, hereditary blood and infectious diseases are treated free 

of charge and supplied with medicaments on account of state resources. Number of several 

infectious diseases has been reduced and diseases such as diphtheria, German measles have 

been liquidated as a result of the actions taken. 

Nevertheless a number of serious difficulties in Nakhichevan AR, all major actions which 

had been still implemented since 1969, focused on improvement of social-economic 

condition. Overall output totalled to 196.8 million Manat in Autonomous Republic in 2003, 

15 

2009



including for agriculture 71.8 million Manat (36.5%), for construction 60.1 million Manat 

(30.5%), for other sectors 64.9 million Manat (33.0%). 

Overall output totalled to 935 million Manat in 2008, including for 158.1 million Manat 

(16.9%), for construction 280.8 million Manat (30.0%), for other sectors 496.1 million 

Manat (53.1%). 

Overall output totalled to 798.5 million Manat within 9 months of 2009, including for 145.8 

million Manat (18.3%), for construction 268.7 million Manat (33.7%), for other sectors 

384.0 million Manat (48%). 

Credit outlay, currency in circulation and privatization of state property played an essential 

role in improvement of countrywide social-economic condition. 

Political situation 

Azerbaijan is democratic, legitimate, secular and unitary republic and gained independency in 

1991. Fundamental Law - Constitution of Azerbaijan Republic became effective on 

November 27, 1995. Subject to the Constitution, power structure consists of three authority 

lines: 

1. Legislative power, is executed by Milli Majlis comprising 125 deputies which are elected 

through voting. 

2. Executive power belongs to the President elected by general secret ballot once in 5 years. 

Top Executive Body of the President - Cabinet of Ministers is governed by the Prime 

Minister. 

3. Judicial power is executed by elective judiciaries (Constitution Court, Supreme Court, 

Economic Court and etc.) working for independently. 

Election of Aliyev Heydar Alirza as the President of Azerbaijan Republic in 1993 put an end 

to anarchy and separatism dominated in the republic at that time. There achieved a ceasefire 

in the undeclared war with Armenia and thus, countrywide political situation was stabilized. 

Presently, his policy which oriented to economic development of the country and welfare of 

the population, is being pursued and followed successfully by Mr.Ilham Aliyev elected as the 

President of Azerbaijan Republic on October 15, 2003 and October 15, 2008. 

At the present, main factor which could prejudice stability of the political situation is 

characterized in occupation of approximate 20% of the territory of Azerbaijan Republic by 

armenian military forces and resettlement of about one million Azerbaijanians as refugees and 

internally displaced peoples in other regions of the country resulted from the undeclared war. 

A number of political parties and public organizations are active by ruling social-political life 

of Azerbaijan Republic. At the present, major political force - New Azerbaijan Party. Other 

political parties such as Mother Land Party, Democratic Owners Party, National 

Independence Party, Musavat Party, Social-Democrat Party, Popular Front Party, Compatriot 

Party and etc. can be exemplified. 

The following elections were held for Milli Majlis of Azerbaijan Republic on November 06, 

2005 and there formed Parliament which comprised by representatives of major political 

forces working for the country dominated by New Azerbaijan Party as a result of democratic 

elections held in the presence of international observers. 

There held elections to municipalities being local public authorities for the first time in history 

of the country in 1999 and about 2700 were established. Out of them 200 commenced as 

urban municipality, but 2500 as rural municipality. Municipal elections were held again on 

December 17, 2004. Granting of some authorities to municipalities towards decision-making 

16 

2009



on use of land and solution of social problems was very important. Next municipal elections 

are expected to be held on December 23, 2009. 

After gaining independency of Azerbaijan Republic the first international organization which 

the country joined was Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (30th January 

1992). Then Azerbaijan Republic became a member of the United Nations (2nd March 1992), 

Commonwealth of Independent States (19th September 1995) and other international 

institutions. At last, Azerbaijan was admitted to the Council of Europe on January 17, 2001. 

Azerbaijan Republic has established close cooperation relations with several institutions of 

the United Nations (including United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, UNDP, 

UNICEF, World Food Programme, United Nations Environmental Programme). Azerbaijan 

Republic also joined Framework Programme “Partnership for Peace” of NATO and takes an 

active part in a number actions of the aforesaid body. 

Azerbaijan Republic fulfills and performs its obligations and commitments by accedence to 

overall 21 international conventions and protocols on environment. In view of maintenance of 

environment very significant documents such as “On climate changes”, “On protection of 

ozone layer”, “On biological diversity”, “Use and protection of interboundary water flows and 

international lakes” and other conventions can be emphasized. 

Nakhichevan is a democratic, legitimate, secular Autonomous Republic in the composition 

of Azerbaijan Republic subject to its legal status. The republic shall establish its Constitution 

and all issues related to interests of the Autonomous Republic are solved hereof. State 

authority is executed based upon principle of power division. Top executive of the republic 

is Chairman of Supreme Majlis with 5-year term of powers. Legislative power, is executed 

by Milli Majlis comprising 45 deputies which are elected through voting. 

Infrastructure and Development 

The formation of new market relations, and the increase 

Picture 

in demand for oil at the world market, stimulated the 

development of the oil industry on the Absheron 

peninsula in the late nineteenth century, subsequently 

attracting foreign investment. New technologies were 

developed and tested for accessing, processing, refining 

and storing oil. The developments in the oil industry 

had a positive impact on the development of other 

industries at this time, such as engineering, mining 

(copper production in Gadabay and salt production in Nakhichevan), navigation, construction, 

and light industries (silk treatment, cotton and food). 

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan is the main port of the Caspian Sea, and is connected with the 

ports of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan by ship and ferry routes. The communication network 

of Azerbaijan is well connected to international systems. 

Actions towards attraction of foreign investments to other industry sectors, including 

development of infrastructure alonside with oil industry of Azerbaijan Republic beared fruit. 

So that presently a part of highway adjoining to international transportation corridor 

TRASECA (Europe-Caucasus-Asia) has been reconstructed in compliance with international 

standards and, Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil export pipeline and Baku-Tbilisi-Arzurum gas export 

17 

2009



pipeline have been laid in order to facilitate delivery of the Caspian oil and gas to worldwide 

markets. 

Under an economic blockade by Armenia, the Autonomous Republic of Nakhichevan has 

suffered limited access to ground transport, communication connections and energy. In line 

with improving economic conditions since the late 1990s, the Republic has provided finances 

for the development and restoration of infrastructure. Investment in industry, transport, 

construction, energy, education, health, agriculture and social needs has resulted in 

improvement of conditions for the wider population. 

Property rights on land 

Land area of 8.64 million ha composing soil reserves of Azerbaijan Republic was allocated 

into 3 forms of property ownership pursuant to the Law of Azerbaijan Republic “On land 

reform”. As a result, 4.92 million ha was in state ownership (public domain), 2.05 million ha 

in municipality ownership and 1.67 million ha was conveyed to private ownership. Land 

reforms were carried out land reforms in 2032 farm economies of our republic and there 

conducted partial reforms in 41 hereof and subsequently various designated state-owned 

agriculture enterprises were established on the basis of them and assigned to subordination of 

the Ministry of Agriculture. 

As a result of land reform there released land plot to 870.8 thousand families or 3.2 million 

persons in the country that it totals to 40% of the population. Only arable and noncropped 

lands, perennial seeds and hayfields suitable in agriculture were conveyed to ownership of the 

population in the course of reforms. The remaining lands were in the ownership of state and 

municipality. 

1020.0 ha agricultural lands diminished in 2008 in comparison with 2003. However irrigated 

areas increased as 4701.0 ha. 28.9 ha lands increased in 2008 as compared to 2003. It proves 

increased interest of the population to cropping. 11.25 thousand ha of noncropped lands were 

involved to sowing. In this period countrywide interest increased towards horticulture and 

vine-growing and area of them increased to 161.55 thousand ha from 158.52 thousand ha that 

it means an increase of 3.03 thousand ha. 

There diminished 22.3 thousand ha pasture-grazing area within the past period. Its main 

reason is characterized in use of pasture-grazing areas as sowing and hayfield, construction of 

temporary residential settlements (Bilasuvar, Aghdam, Tartar, Goranboy, Fuzuli, Aghjabedi 

and other regions) for refugees and allocation of land plots under temporary usage for their 

occupation with cropping and sowing. As evident from the table, nevertheless household plots 

(home grounds) totalled to 254.40 thousand ha in 2003, their area reached to 258.50 thousand 

ha by increasing 4.10 thousand ha in 2008. If every household plot is calculated as 0.08 ha 

average, it means provision of 51.2 thousand families with household plot. Naturally, if 

certain part of them is shared by IDPs, other part will be shared by the cities and villages. 

Usage status of lands in different regions 

Total area of farming lands equalled to 1.66 million ha or to 36.7% of agricultural lands in our 

republic in 2008. Farming lands increased as 0.7% in 2008 as compared to 2003. 18.47% of 

these areas (on 2008) is under state ownership, 5.35% under municipality ownership and 

76.18% under private ownership. 

Notwithstanding there were agricultural lands of 4.08 million ha in the republic in 1992, this 

figure reached to 4.52 million ha in 2008 as a result of adequate pursuance of countrywide 

18 

2009



agrarian policy. Namely, additional land plot of 0.44 million ha was involved to agriculture of 

the republic. There exist some improvements in irrigation of the lands, too. Increase of 

irrigated lands appeared mainly in low-lying regions. However, share of countrywide dryfarming 

is comprised by 30% of all arable lands that these lands are mainly situated in 

mountainous and low-lying regions. 

Quantity of soil reserve per family is various in regions of the republic because of the 

population settlement. Despite this figure totalled to 0.85 ha in Lankaran-Astara region, but it 

equals to 5.9 ha in Absheron region and to 2-3 ha plains (lowland region). Nevertheless 

14.5% of rural population inhabited here, 19.7% of the soil is located in this area. Most 

unsuitable lands are situated in Nakhichevan and Lankaran-Astara regions. Accordingly 7.4 

and 12.5% population inhabited here, arable lands total to 3-5%. 

36.0% (595.6 thousand ha) of countrywide farmings were brought together in Lowland 

economic region. Also, Lowland economic region is comprised by 12.6% of farmings 

remained under state ownership, 38.4% of farmings remained under municipality ownership 

and 41.4% of farmings remained under private ownership. 6.5% of economic regions’ 

farmings are under state ownership, 5.7% under municipality ownership and 87.8% under 

private ownership. 

The following places are taken by Mountainous Garabagh, Ganja-Gazakh and Shaki-Zagatala 

economic regions subject to quantity of total area of the arable lands. 34.3% of countrywide 

farmings are located in these regions and remaining parts are in other economic regions. 

First three places are taken by Nakhichevan (93.3%), Mountainous Shirvan (89.1%) and 

Lowland (87.8%) economic regions subject to quantity of the arable lands used under private 

ownership. This figure totals to 41.8% in Absheron. 

In view of specific geographical situation of Absheron economic region, location of Baku and 

Sumgayit cities in this region and development of industry, forms of arable lands are 

distinctive as compared to other regions. 

Perennial croppings take particular place among agricultural lands. The perennial croppings 

cover gardens, vineyards, tea plantations, berries and other fields. There existed 158.5 

thousand perennial plants and renascents in 2003 in the republic and area of them reached to 

161.5 thousand ha by increasing 3.0 thousand ha within the past period (2008). 38.8% of 

these lands are still under state ownership (including Mountainous Garabagh and occupied 

regions), 2.83% under municipal ownership and 58.4% under private ownership. Subject to 

total area of perennial croppings, Shaki-Zagatala (25.8%) and Guba-Khachmaz (17.4%) 

economic regions are ahead actually. 

72% of countrywide perennial croppings are comprised by Mountainous Garabagh together 

with economic regions. However it is a pity that 70% of Mountainous Garabagh are under 

occupation. 28.0% of perennial arable fields involves the remaining 7 economic regions. 

93.1% of perennial farmings in Guba-Khachmaz economic regions are under private 

ownership presently. 40.0% of countrywide perennial croppings are comprised by gardens. 

48% of gardens on overall property forms are located in Shaki-Zagatala and 39.0% in Guba- 

Khachmaz economic regions. 

Nevertheless total area of noncropped lands equalled to 53.0 thousand ha in 2003, this figure 

totalled to 41.76 thousand ha by decreasing as 11.24 thousand ha in 2008. 34.6% of these 

19 

2009



lands was under state ownership, 9.85% of farmings remained under municipality ownership 

and 55.6% of farmings remained under private ownership. 23.2% of noncropped lands is 

shared by Lowland economic region. It means that year by year cultivation of the same lands 

gives its adverse effect to land capability. 

Despite area of countrywide hayfields totalled to 109.03 thousand ha in 2003, their area 

reached to 109.7 thousand ha by increasing 0.63 thousand ha in 2008. It is mainly related to 

preservation of pasture-grazing fields for hay-mowing and maintenance of uncropped lands 

for haymaking. 27.0% of hayfields is under state ownership, 2.5% under municipality 

ownership and 70.5% under private ownership. Nevertheless hayfields were located in all 

economic regions of the republic, majority of them is located Ganja-Gazakh (30.7%), Guba- 

Khachmaz (26.5%) and Lankaran-Astara (13.8%) economic regions. In general, 71.0% of 

countrywide hayfields are focused in the territories of the above 3 economic regions. 

Capability of hayfields is not so high. Its main reason is characterized in effects of natural 

factors, absence of agrotechnology, nonuse of fertilizers and unexecution of cultural-technical 

actions in this sphere. Average 10-15 centner hay is output of per ha (in view of fodder). 

Pasture-grazing fields of the republic totalled to 2.57 million ha in 2003. This figure totalled 

to 2.55 million ha by declining as 26.4 thousand ha in 2008. 58.5% of pasture-grazing fields is 

under state ownership, 41.1% under municipality ownership and 0.06% under private 

ownership. 

About 1.5 million ha area being under state ownership contain mainly winter and summer 

pastures. Lands under municipality and private ownership are rural surrounding pasturegrazing 

fields and major part of pasture-grazing fields under usage of municipality is 

commonly used pasture-grazing lands. Lowland (22.0%), Guba-Khachmaz (9.7%), Ganja- 

Gazakh (19.3%), Mountainous Shirvan (10.0%) and Mountainous Garabagh (10.2%) 

economic regions differ from other economic regions subject to extent of grazing-pasture 

fields. These lands are used in development of cattle-breeding and refer to soiling 

foods/forage lands. Capacity of grazing-pasture fields decrease yearly almost. Its main reason 

is overloading of pasture-grazing fields and nonexecution of improvement measures. 

Notwithstanding it is deemed expedient to keep 2-4 heads of sheeps and goats in winter 

pastures and 4-8 heads of sheeps and goats in summer pastures, many pasture-grazing fields 

are loaded more than 2 times and subsequently capability of them declines as a result of rapid 

development of cattle/stock raising and overbreeding of livestock in the republic. As evident 

from the calculations, capability of winter pastures based on fodder totals to 4-8 centner and 

capability of summer pastures totals to 6-10 centner. 

562.0 thousand ha land resources in our republic underwent to salting in any extent. 5.8% 

hereof are saline soil. The remaining 33.4% are weakly salted, 31.1% medium salted and 

29.7% strongly salted soil. 370.7 thousand ha of soil which underwent to salting, are located 

in the territory of Lowland economic region. 545.6 thousand ha soil in our republic became 

salinized in any extent. 

60.8% hereof refers to Lowland, 10.4% Guba-Khachmaz, 6.8% Shaki-Zagatala, 6.4% 

Mountainous Shirvan, 5.5% Absheron, 4.0% Ganja-Gazakh and the remaining part to other 

economic regions. 

As major part of countrywide territories consisted of mountainy terrains and uplands and 

precipitation of heavy spring-summer rains cause to favorable condition for development of 

wind and water erosion. For this reason, 515.3 thousand ha of agricultural lands underwent to 

20 

2009



erosion process that 40.5% are weakly, 41.85% medium salted and 17.8% strongly eroded 

soil. 

87.6 thousand ha of eroded lands are located in Mountainous Shirvan, 78.8 thousand ha in 

Kalbajar-Lachin and 72.9 thousand ha in Ganja-Gazakh regions. 

The above can be referred to land reserves of Nakhichevan AR, too. 

However it should be noted that arable lands reached to 50.5 thousand ha from 36.3 thousand 

ha or increased as 14.2 thousand ha in 2008 as compared to 2003. It was possible mainly 

resulted from involvement of uncropped and pasture fields to farming turnover being more 

efficient from economical standpoint. 

(See: Annexes 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 and 2.4) 

Extent of human impact upon environment 

One of factors considerably effecting to aggravation of 

Picture 

countrywide ecological situation is characterized in 

previously accumulated and presently generated wastes 

that a part of them is considered to be hazardous. 

According to official statistic data, there remained 

approximate 2.5 million tons of hazardous wastes 

currently which generated in landfills, enterprises and 

refuse dumps. 

Key industrial output - production of crude oil totalled to 44.5 million tons in 2008. So, the 

decline in oil production was prevented which continued yearly due to objective causes since 

1990 years. Of course, this growth considerably enhanced the extent of environmental impact. 

Volume of pollutants (pollutant dispersion) diverted to water reservoirs decreased as 1.6 

times, volume of pollutant emissions as 1.9 times in 2008 in comparison with 2002. Untreated 

discharged effluents diverted to water facilities totalled to 181 million m 3 in 2008 and 94% of 

incoming sewage are household-sanitary waste waters. Volume of pollutant emissions totalled 

to 923 thousand tons and 281 thousand tons out of them are shared by stationary pollution 

sources/ fixed sources of environmental pollution. 

Volume of waters incoming from countrywide water-storage basins totalled to 11.7 billion 

m 3 in 2008, nevertheless this figure equalled to 10 billion m 3 in 2001. Actual consumption of 

water was 7.9 billion m 3 , 68% hereof was used in irrigation, 26% in production and 5% for 

household-farming purposes. Despite strong water demand appeared in the country, 33% of 

intake water is lost while its delivery. 

Basic indices characterizing effect of human activity upon the environment are mentioned in 

the following table: 

Water taken from 

water sources, 

million m 3 

Water consumption, 

million m 3 

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 

10012 

10075 

10772 

21 

11440 

12050 

12360 

12270 

11735 

6414 6754 7370 8019 8607 8865 8371 7886 

2009



Discharge of water to 

surface watercourses, 

million m 3 

170 163 167 160 161 163 177 181 

Pollutant emissions, 

thousand tons 

including: 

978.9 620 838 975 1054 875 970 923 

stationary sources 577.1 217 426 540 558 344 386 281 

motor transport 401.8 403 412 435 496 531 584 642 

Share of pollutant emissions from fixed sources of environmental pollution per m 2 area unit of 

the republic totals to 3.2 tons, share of of pollutant emissions per capita totals to 33 kg. 

Alongside with that declining in scale of construction and reconstruction of nature 

conservancy facilities due to insufficient investment to basic capital adversely impacted upon 

protection of environment. So, basic capital outlay towards protection of environment and 

effective use of natural resources totalled to 97.8 million Manat in 2008. 

22 

2009



Chapter 1. 

Overview of Biodiversity Status, Trends 

and Threats 

23 

2009

1.1. Status of Biodiversity and Ecosystems 



1.1.1. Status and quality of research on ecosystems and species 

Research into biodiversity has been conducted in Azerbaijan over a number of years. 

Research into ecosystem classification, structure and function is relatively new and poorly 

developed, however much has been learnt about the country’s species and ecosystems. A 

range of research institutes of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences are involved in 

this, including: the Institute of Microbiology (focusing on the distribution and applied use of 

microorganisms); the Institute of Botany (focusing on the distribution and ecology of lower 

and higher plants, including description of new species of algae from the Caspian Sea); the 

Institute of Zoology (focusing on the distribution, ecology, evolution and protection of animal 

species and species composition of zoogeographical complexes, including the description of 

200 new species); and, the Institute of Genetic Resources (focusing on assessments of the 

genetic bank, agrobiodiversity and wild relatives, assessments for sustainable use of 

biodiversity). The Genetic Resources Institute co-ordinates the activities of other institutions 

towards a national inventory and database for genetic resources (and biodiversity) of the 

country. 

Research on the ecology and introduction of useful, rare and disappearing plants is conducted 

by the Botanical Garden, which also hosts collections of a number of important taxa. 

Furthermore, at the Mardakan Arboretum on the Absheron Peninsula, research is conducted 

into protection of trees under natural conditions. 

The Ministry of Agriculture operates a number of scientific institutes which conduct 

research relevant to agrobiodiversity (both in terms of selection and plant preservation). 

These scientific research centres include: the Institute of Vegetable-Growing (focusing on 

vegetables and melons) the Institute of Horticulture and Subtropical Plants (focusing on 

fruits, nuts and tea plants); the Scientific Institute of Viticulture and Wine-Making (focusing 

on grapes and vines); the Institute of Fodder, Meadows and Pastures (focusing on fodder 

production and methods for sustainable use of pastures); and the Institute of Cotton- 

Growing (cotton production). 

In addition, applied research on fish biodiversity has been conducted by the Institute of Fish 

Culture, of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources. 

Since the early 1970s research on species and ecosystems has been carried out in 

Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic. The Nakhichevan Regional Scientific Institute (since 

2003 known as the Bio-resources Institute) and the Nakhichevan State University have both 

conducted research into species distribution and diversity. Although studies into a number of 

taxa are incomplete (including microorganisms, fungi, lower plants, protozoa and 

invertebrates), a wide range of species have already been documented and further studies to 

complete the inventory commenced in 2003. Higher plants and animals are much better 

studied in Nakhichevan. The “Herbarium Fund” was created in 1977 and now stores almost 

600,000 herbarium specimens. 

1.1.2. Biogeography 

Azerbaijan can be divided into a number of biogeographical regions, although the number and 

location of these regions is dependant on the method of classification. Classification using 

24 

2009



floral and topographical distinctions defines 20 distinct regions. The country is dominated by 

Mediterranean plant communities (50%), boreal plant communities (30%), and Caucasus 

plant communities (5%). 

In general, the fauna of the country represent a number of different biogeographical zones – 

reflecting the position of the country at the junction of a number of distinct biogeographical 

areas (the Middle East, Asia Minor, the Mediterranean, Europe, and the Palaearctic). The Fish 

of six distinct geographical regions are represented in the country, with the majority 

belonging to the Ponto-Caspian region 1 (69 species). Amphibians from all five adjoining 

areas are represented, while reptile from eight distinct biogegraphical regions is represented 

(including species with origins in Iran, the Middle East, Asia Minor, the Mediterranean, 

Europe, Caucasus, the Eastern Palaearctic, and Turan). The birds of Azerbaijan (242 species) 

(those that over-winter and breed) include trans-Paleoartic species (94 species), European 

species (57 species), and Mediterranean species (43 species) and others (48 species (19,8 %). 

Mammals of Azerbaijan are specified in six biogeographical complexes. Majority of these 

species refer to Caucasus mesophile complex, but less part to species of Front Asia, European 

forest, South Asia and Turanian desert. Besides, 3 imported species exist here. 

Of the 20 biogeographical regions represented within Azerbaijan, three are found in the 

Autonomous Republic of Nakhichevan (Nakhichevan plain, Nakhichevan mountain and 

Nakhichevan high mountain zones). Nakhichevan AR is considered to be unique botanicalgeographical 

district in Small Caucasus, differing from surrounding areas by its floristic 

composition, which is dominated by xerophytes (65% of the flora), and is most similar to 

Middle Asia, north Iranian and Mediterranean floras. Xerophytes geographical type organizes 

65.36% (1889 species) of the total species. Nakhichevan supports a range of plant 

communities, and most of the zoological groups present in Azerbaijan. 

1.1.3. Status review of ecosystems 

Forest ecosystems 

Area of Azerbaijan Republic covered with forests constitutes 989.4 thousand ha, that it is 

equivalent to 11.4% of total area. 49% of forests are shared by Great Caucasus region, 34% 

by Little Caucasus region, 15% by Talish zone and 2% by Lowland zone (together with 

Nakhichevan AR). 

Picture 

Forest line ranges in the height of 1800 m in Great and 

Little Caucasus mountains, sometimes uprises to 2000 m. 

But lower bounds of forests are variable. Even height comes 

out of forest/green belt as a result of anthropogenous effect 

in the south-east slope of great Caucasus. 

35% of current Azerbaijan territory was covered with forests in XVIII-XIX centuries. At that 

time the forests covered mountain slopes and lowland areas situated outside of arid areas. At 

the present, only tree remnants preserved in these areas. Riparian forests and tugai along Kura 

and Araz rivers, woodlands and shrubwoods of Garabagh plain became extinctive and coastal 

1 The Ponto-Caspian region is a vast territory, encompassing the basins of the Black, the Azov, and the 

Caspian Seas. 

25 

2009



forest areas of Samur-Davachi lowlands. Presently, 261 thousand ha forest lands are situated 

on the territories occupied by the Armenia. 

A diversity of tree species is found in the forests of Azerbaijan, however beech (Fagus spp.) 

represents the dominant species in 32% of the forests. It is found in all the mountainous 

regions, except for most of the south escarpment area of the Lesser Caucasus and 

Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic. Overall 14% of the total forest area is covered by oak 

(Quercus spp.) forest, with the majority (40%) of these being in the Greater Caucasus, with 

35% in the Lesser Caucasus, and 25% in the Talysh Mountains. The third most abundant type 

of forest is that dominated by hornbeam (Carpinus spp.). Of the 15 species of hornbeam 

described globally, five are found in Azerbaijan 2 . Other tree species are summarised in the 

Table 3.1 below. 

Table 3.1 Tree species present in the forests of Azerbaijan 

Tree species Latin name Notes 

Walnut Juglans spp. Grows along river gorges and escarpments, in the 

southern aspect of the Greater Caucasus and in the 

Ganikh- Haftaran valley 

Lime Tilia spp. There are three species of endemic lime in 

Azerbaijan, found in the mid-altitudinal zones of the 

mountain ranges. 

Date Diospyros lotus Found in the Talysh Mountains southern Caucasus, 

at altitudes between 300-1000m 

Birch Betula spp. Grows in upland regions, where found in the 

foothills up to sub-alpine altitudes, and on the 

Absheron Peninsular; covers less than 3,000 km 

Iron tree Parrotia persica This relict species grows at altitudes of 200-300 m. , 

mainly in Talish. These species have been reduced 

by human encroachment into forests 

Pine species Pinus spp. Only covers 0.5 % of the area of Azerbaijan. Found 

in Kapaz, Goy-gol, Zayamchay, and Asrikchay. 

Oriental plane Platanus orientalis This species is protected in Basitchay Strict Nature 

tree 

Reserve 

Juniper Juniperis spp. Found from 100-2500m, and is found in parts of 

Nakhichevan , and in the Caucasus 

Eldar pine Pinus eldarica An endemic tree only found on Ellar Oyugu 

Plants of Tugai 3 

forests 

mountain. 

- Forests are found on the banks of the Kura river and 

its branchs, and cover only 0.8% of the area of 

Azerbaijan 

The forest cover in Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic has declined dramatically over the 

last century, from some 30,000 ha of forest recorded in 1917, to around 2,500 ha today. Most 

of the remaining forests are within the high mountain zone (1800 – 2600m), in contrast to the 

situation within the rest of Azerbaijan. The dominant tree species in these forests is the 

Oriental oak (Quercus macranthera; 84%). Other trees in these forests include ash (Fraxinus 

spp; 20%), maple (Acer spp.), juniper (Juniperus foetidissima, J. excelsa polycarpos), pear 

(Pyrus salicifolia) and mountain ash (Sorbus greaca). The forests in Nakhichevan 

Autonomous Republic regulate natural processes, and provide an important source of timber, 

fuel, medicinal plants, nuts and fruits. Forests have been damaged not only by overexploitation, 

but also by natural events such as fires and floods (in 2003 over 25 ha were 

2 Carpinus x. grosseserrata H. Winkl. (C. oxycarpa H. Winkl.), C. arpinus schuschaënsis H. Winkl. (C. 

geoktschaica Radde-Fomin), C. orientalis Mill., C. orientalis subsp. macrocarpa (Willk.) H. Winkl., and C. 

betulus L. (C. caucasica Grossh.). 

3 Tugai forests – flood-lands forests in Caucasus and Middle Asia. 

26 

2009



destroyed by flooding). As well as the main forests at Batabat and Bichanak, a range of other 

smaller forest areas remain, although many are now fragmented and isolated. Measures top 

protect and restore natural regeneration in clearings and meadows may help contiguous forest 

to be re-established in Nakhichevan. 

Grassland and Desert Ecosystems 

Semi-desert ecosystems cover 32% of Azerbaijan’s territory, 

Picture 

and are found from 27 m above sea level (the height of the 

Caspian Sea) to 1300m (in the Orta Araz gorge). Grassland 

ecosystems are found in this semi-desert zone, where annual 

precipitation is 200-400mm. They are found around the Kura 

and Caspian Basin, and in the Nakhichevan Autonomous 

Republic. Semi-deserts also occur over the arid foothills of the 

Greater Caucasus and at the lower altitudes of other mountains 

such as Ajinohur, and Jeyranchol. 

Some damage of grassland and semi-desert habitats has occurred, for example as a result of 

long-term irrigation the soil structure has changed in the Kura-Araz lowlands, and soils have 

become salinised due to the rising level of the Kura river. 

Grassland ecosystems cover 33% of the territory of the Autonomous Republic of 

Nakhichevan, mainly occurring along the Araz River. In addition, fragments of different 

desert ecosystems occur, including saline semi-desert systems. These areas appear to be 

expanding through desertification and associated saliniation is occurring due to over-use of 

lands, the arid climate, intensive irrigation and inappropriate drainage or irrigation systems. 

Saline deserts support a diverse and unique flora (around 256 species), including some 

halophyte species characteristic of such environments 4 . The animals associated with these 

ecosystems are mainly nocturnal or crepuscular (including lagomorphs and rodents), although 

birds such as desert partridge (Ammoperdix griseogularis) and vultures may be seen during 

the day. Semi-desert ecosystems are also present in Nakhichevan plains, in less saline areas at 

altitudes of 1100-1300m (and sometimes up to 1500m). Many of these semi-desert systems 

are dominated by wormwoods (Artemesia spp., such as A. fragrans.), although a range of 

other plants occur. Some of these semi-desert areas provide important winter pastures. 

Mountain Ecosystems 

Mountain meadow ecosystems cover 10% of the territory of 

Picture 

Azerbaijan. Alpine meadow is found between 2000-4500 m 

above sea level, and has similar communities throughout the 

altitudinal zone. Many of the escarpments do not have soil, and 

few plant communities exist on them. The subalpine meadows of 

the north-east Greater Caucasus, the Garabag volcanic plateau 

and ranges, Shahdag, and Murovdag are covered with grain 

crops, along with meadow-steppe plants. Forest ecosystems also 

occur in mountainous regions, but are addressed in more detail above. 

Mountain ecosystems are characteristic of Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, and include a 

range of communities including xerophytic scrub (including scrubby, rocky areas (gariga)), 

steppe-meadows (friganoid), as well as scrubby xerophyte forests, bushes, oak forests, high 

4 For example Halocnemum strobilaceum, Halostachis caspica, Salicornia europaea, Zejdlitsia florida, Salsola 

crassa, Frangenia hirsute, and Anabasis aphylla 

27 

2009



mountain meadows and cliff communities. One of the dominant plant communities is 

friganoid steppe-meadow vegetation, a complex system that supports a diversity of plants, 

including aromatic herbs, such as clary sage (Salvia sclerea), lamb’s ears (Stachys spp.) and 

thyme (Thymus collinus), which are important economically and medically. Vetches (such as 

Astragalus spp.) are often characteristic in these areas, and a number of rare and endemic 

plants are also present, including alliums (Allium leonidi and A. mariae) and tulips (Tulipa 

florenski). 

Alpine and sub-alpine meadows in Nakhichevan are highly diverse, supporting over 890 plant 

species. There is a greater area of alpine meadows, which are dominated by grasses such as 

Agrostis alba, Phleum alpinum, Carex canescens, and Nardus stricta, and the low 

productivity of these areas restricts grazing potential (although cattle are still grazed on such 

pastures in some numbers). High mountain meadows and pastures (at 2000-3000m altitude) 

have been affected by over-grazing, leading to invasion by non-palatable plants. At higher 

altitudes (3200-3700m) the vegetation becomes shorter and more patchy, dominated by lady’s 

mantle (Alchemilla sericea and A. caucasica), with grass (Poa alpina), clover (Trifolium 

ambiguum), speedwell (Veronica gentianoides), and plantain (Plantago atrata). 

Wetland Ecosystems 

The wetland ecosystems of Azerbaijan are of particular 

biological importance. The wetlands and lakes provide Picture 

an important stopover for migrants, and over-wintering 

birds, and are estimated to support more than 1000 000 

birds during the annual migrations. The lakes also 

support a diversity of plant species. Some of the key 

lakes and wetlands important for biodiversity are 

described below: 

• Lake Agzibir on the Caspian coast has no protection 

status, but has a high diversity of zooplankton (38 species) and macrobenthic organisms 

(130 species, as well as 181 bird species, including 77 species of waders. Studies have 

shown that migrating and over-wintering wader numbers can reach up to 200,000 birds on 

this lake alone. 

• Lake Gush in the Salyan region, fed by the Shirvan River, also has no protection status, 

although 79 species of wader and nine raptor species have been found. Migrating and 

over-wintering bird numbers can reach over 31,000 birds. 

• The Kura Delta on the Caspian shore consists of a number of channels and marsh areas, 

stretching out into the Caspian Sea, 20 km to the south-east. Reed beds dominate the 

wetland ecosystem. This site is of great importance for migrating birds, supporting 

numbers in the region of 75,000 waders. Although the Delta has no protection status, it is 

State owned. 

• Mahmudchala and Agchala Lakes to the south of Baku cover 23,000 ha, much of which is 

covered with reed beds. Although important for wintering birds, the area is not protected 

but hunting revenue helps protect the area. 

• Sarisu Lake is situated on the bank of the Kura River, in the Imishli region, and belongs to 

the State. This lake supports a notably high diversity of zooplankton and phytoplankton. 

It has a rich reed bed community that provides ideal nesting sites for birds. Studies in 

1998 showed 29 bird species breeding here, including some globally threatened species. 

• Aggol Lake, also on the right bank of the Kura (in Agjabadi) also has a high diversity, 

including 87 species of breeding birds. 

28 

2009



• State-owned Varvara reservoir is situated on the Kura River, to the south-east of 

Mingachevir and covers 2,140 ha. The reservoir supports a high diversity of zooplankton, 

algae, phytoplankton, and higher plants. Of the 34 species of fish found in the lake, 16 are 

considered economically important. 

• Jhandargol Lake is situated on the border with Georgia and covers 1,250 ha. Its water is 

used for irrigation, and the lake supports an important fishing industry. The lake is rich in 

biodiversity, including four globally threatened bird species 5 , and an important reed bed 

community. 

There are many wetlands and water bodies in Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, which 

support varied hydrophytic vegetation (nearly 210 species or water, wetland or marshland 

plants have been recorded). Although water plants have not been well described in the 

Republic, they include duckweeds (Lemna spp.) and pondweeds (Potamogeton spp.). Other 

species are more associated with water margins and marshes 6 In general cover and 

productivity in these wetland and marshland systems is low. 

Coastal and Marine Ecosystems 

Picture 

The Caspian Sea is the largest enclosed body of 

water in the world, covering 436,000 km 2 , with 

borders on five countries 7 . The surface of the 

Caspian is at 27 m below the level of the world’s 

oceans, although historically the level fluctuates. 

The deepest point is 1,023 m (the Lenkoran hollow), 

but the average depth is just 184 m. 

In general the water of the sea is not fresh, but 

brackish, (three times less concentrated than the oceans). The Caspian Sea is not a 

homogenous water body due to the influx of water with different compositions in different 

areas. In general the north Caspian is less salty (due to the influx of water from the Volga and 

Ural rivers), and more species diverse than the middle or southern areas. However, nearly all 

of the indigenous species are found in the middle of the Caspian where the water composition 

is stable. 

The Caspian provides a characteristic ecosystem that differs from the major oceans of the 

world. The sea is of global importance due to the high biodiversity, large number of endemic 

species (see Table 3.2), and the presence of globally threatened bird and fish species, 

including the economically important sturgeon. The region is also a migration route for 

millions of birds moving from Africa and the Mediterranean to Central Asia and India. To 

date 446 bird species have been recorded in the Caspian, of which 120 species breed, 62 

species over-winter, and 278 species migrate through. 

Table 3.2 Number of endemic species found in the Caspian 

Phylum Subphylum Class Subclass Order Number of 

endemics 

5 Lesser white-fronted goose (Anser erythropus), pygmy cormorant (Phalacrocorax pygmaeus), Dalmatian 

pelican (Pelecanus crispis) and imperial eagle (Aquila heliaca). 

6 For example, Convolvulus persicus, Heliotropium ellipticum, Halacnemum strabilaceum, Salicornia 

europaea, Puccinellia qiqanteae, and Chenopodium rubrum 

7 Russian Federation, Republic of Kazakhstan, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Turkmenistan and 

Islamic Republic of Iran. 

29 

2009



Porиfera - - - - 4 

Coelenterata - - - - 2 

Nematoda - - - - 3 

Platyhelmиnthes - Turbellarиa - - 29 

Rotifera - - - - 2 

Annelиda - Olиgochaeta - - 4 

Polychaeta - - 4 

Arthropoda Crustacea Branchиpoda Diplostraca Cladocera 19 

Maxиllopoda Ostracoda - 3 

Copepoda - 23 

Mysиda 20 

Ыsopoda 1 

Malacostraca Eumalacostraca Amphиpoda 68 

Cumacea 19 

Decapoda 1 

Chelicerata Arachnida Acari Acariformes 2 

Mollusca - - - - 53 

Vertebrata - - - - 55 8 

In total some 450 species of plankton have been recorded from the Caspian, 140 of which are 

found in the territories of Azerbaijan. There are 87 species of algae, some of which entered 

the Caspian from the Black Sea after the construction of the Volga-Don channel in 1954. In 

addition, 380 species of zoobenthos have been recorded from 13 different animal groups, with 

the majority of species occurring in the middle and south of the Caspian Sea. 

1.1.4. Status review of plant communities and habitats 

1.1.4.1. Description of key plant communities 

Distinctive plant communities are associated with particular habitat types: 

• Xerophytes can tolerate dry and arid habitats and are found in areas of: 

− Steppes: (e.g. Festuca silcata, Stipa lessingiana, Onobrychis cornuta and 

Medicago coerulea); 

− Deserts and semi-desert: (e.g. Astragalus tribulloides, Glycirrhiza glabra); 

• Halophytes (e.g. Halocnemum strobilaceum, Halostachys caspica, and Sasola crassa) 

develop in salty places; 

• Psammophytes (e.g. Ceratocarpus arenarius, Convolvulus persica and Elymus gigantea) 

develop in sandy areas; 

• Hydrophytes (e.g. Polygonum hydropiper, P. amphibium and Eleocharis meridionalis) 

grow around water bodies and in wetland areas; 

• Hydrophiles (e.g. Batrachyum divaricatum, Potamogeton perfoliatum and Zannichellia 

palustris) develop in water bodies; 

• Mesophytes are the dominant form of vegetation, and can be further characterised in 

relation to specific habitats: 

− Forests: The most widespread forest commuities are dominated by hornbeam 

(Carpinus caucasica), Eastern oak (Quercus macranthera) and ash (Fraxinus 

excelsior); 

− Humid lowland meadows: (e.g. Heraecleum trachyloma, Aconitum nasutum and 

Doronicum macrophyllum); 

− Alpine meadows: (e.g. Festuca pratensis, F. violacea and Carum caucasicum). 

8 54 fish and 1 mammalian species 

30 

2009



1.1.4.2. Rare, endemic or threatened plant communities and habitats 

In Azerbaijan, a number of specific habitats or plant communities are rare or threatened, for 

example: 

1. Psammophytic coastal plant community (Astragalus bakuensis, Melilotus caspicus, 

Calligonum bakuensis, Nitradia schoberi); 

2. Xerophytic plant communities in Nakchivan Autonomus Republic near the village of 

Badanli and in Shabuz region (Dorema glabrum, Iris lycotis, Astragalus badamlensis, 

Thymus collinus); 

3. Wetland communities around Akushchay and Sarisu Lakes (Trapa hyrcana, Nelumbo 

caspica, Nymphaeca alba,, N. peltata); 

4. Dry forest communities in Azerbaijan and Nakchivan (Pistacia mutica, Celtis 

caucasica, Punica granatum, Rhus coriaria, Juniperus oblonga, J. polycarpus, J. 

sabina, J. depressa, J. foetidissima); 

5. Eldar pine (Pinus eldarica) forest is only found on the Eldar plain in the Samukh 

region, and the oak forests (Quercus longipes) around the Nabran region are 

threatened; 

6. Humid, sub-tropical forest, supporting the rare and threatened iron tree (Parrotia 

persica), is unique to the Hyrcan forest of Lenkoran region in Talysh province; 

7. Rare and threatened alpine meadows around the lakes of Gey-gol and Maral-gol are 

typified by the lily Lilium ledebourii. 

Steppe communities dominated by Ferula oopoda and by Colutea comarovii are globally 

unique for the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic. In the mountain pastures of the Shahbuz 

region a rare and unique plant community is dominated by the endemic species Rheum ribes. 

1.1.5. Status review of species 

1.1.5.1. Microorganisms 

Although there is little information on the diversity of micro-organisms in Azerbaijan, there 

are estimated to be between 1,200 and 1,250 species, but to date no endemic micro-organisms 

have been described. No specific measures are in place for the protection of microorganisms. 

As in the rest of Azerbaijan, there is a lack of knowledge about the diversity of 

microorganisms present in the Autonomous Republic of Nakhichevan. The presence of 

bacteria (Monera) is clear, particularly from their impacts through diseases in humans, 

animals and plants, and in their use in food production and processing (such as Lactobacillus 

etc.), and in healthcare (e. g. Penicillium). Microorganism cultures are kept in a number of 

institutes and epidemiological stations in the region. 

1.1.5.2. Protozoa 

Protozoa are cellular organisms that live either independently, or as part of a larger organism. 

Protozoa provide many varied and essential roles in an ecosystem, for example providing 

food for fish larvae and fry, and increasing soil fertility. They are also the pathogens of 

human and animal diseases. The protozoa described in Azerbaijan are distributed from the 

following groups: 

31 

2009



• Over 300 species of Sarcomastigofora (flagella and amoebae). Specifically 12 plant and 

17 animal flagella and free-living amoebae have been found in the soils of the Lenkoran 

area, the Shirvan steppe, and Karabakh Mountain. Over 100 species of amoebae have 

been found in the soils of the Sheki-Zakatala area, and in the reservoirs of the Absheron 

region. 

• Foraminiferida principally inhabit the marine benthos, attached to stones, algae and 

hydroids and in planktonic forms. Most forms live in salty water, but some can cope with 

significantly fresher water. To date 18 species have been found in the Caspian, 15 of 

which are believed to be endemic. 

• One species of Pheodarea has been found in the harbour of Baku 9 . Two marine species 

of Heliozoa and eight fresh water forms have been recorded either as plankton, or living 

on substrates. 

• A total of 268 species of Apicomplexa have been found in Azerbaijan, and all are internal 

parasites of vertebrates. In addition, 29 species of Microspora have been found in 

Azerbaijan (27 of which parasitise invertebrates) and 42 species of Myxozoa (fish 

parasites) have been recorded. 

• There are over 1,000 free-living and parasitic species of Infusoria and Ciliphora in 

Azerbaijan. Of these 464 species are found in the Caspian, 300 species in lakes and 

reservoirs, and 126 species in soil. Parasitic Infusoria are widespread, 26 species are 

external parasites on fresh water and marine fish, and species within this group can be 

useful indicators of organic water pollution 10 . 

1.1.5.3. Fungi 

The fungi of Azerbaijan have been widely studied by a number of mycologists (see Table 

3.3). The structure, ecology, biology or habitat of approximately 5,020 species has been 

studied. The majority of fungi studied to date are parasitic on plants, causing a variety of 

diseases, which cause particular problems in agriculture. Approximately 400 myxomycetes 

(slime moulds) have been described. This widespread group is found in both aquatic and 

terrestrial ecosystems, and is also airborne. In addition, approximately 400 basidiomycetes 

(club fungi) have been recorded in the country. Of particular note is the species Terfesia 

transcaucusica, which is endemic to Azerbaijan and is considered to be at risk of extinction. 

It is found in the regions of Araz, Absheron, the Lesser Caucasus, and Karaback. 

Table 3.3 The number of genera and species of fungi described in Azerbaijan and 

Nakhichevan AR. 

Azerbaijan Nakhichevan 

Class Number of Number of Number of 

genera species species 

Myxomycota (slime moulds) 18 40 - 

Phycomycota 45 240 47 

Ascomycota (yeasts, moulds, morels and 

truffles) 

210 1,020 67 

Basidiomycota (smuts, rusts, jellies, 260 2,600 35 

mushrooms and bracket fungi) 

Deuteromycota (fungi imperfecti) 130 1,120 22 

Total 763 5,020 171 

9 Cannosphaera haekelli, found in the late 19 th century 

10 Species of the genera Apiosoma, Epistylus, and Trichodina 

32 

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A total of 171 species of fungi have been described from Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, 

some of which (notably Phylostica and Septoria spp.) cause agricultural diseases (affecting 

tobacco, tea, apple and pear plants, as well as natural vegetation). Further details are shown in 

Table 3.3. 

1.1.5.4. Flora 

Lower plants 

Among the lower plants recorded from Azerbaijan, some 249 species of algae have been 

described from the Caspian Sea, and of these 197 are microscopic (phytoplankton; see Table 

3.4). In addition, a high diversity in mosses is recorded from Azerbaijan, with 774 species 

described from 44 different orders. 

Table 3.4 The number of species within the main algal classifications found from the 

Azeri area of the Caspian Sea 

Group of algae Number of species 

Red algae (Rhodophyta) 20 

Brown algae (Phaeophyta) 5 

Green algae (Chlorophyta) 25 

Microscopic species: 

Diatoms (Bacilliariopyta) 197 

Blue-green algae (Cyanophyta) 80 

Dinophyte (Dinophyta) 16 

Golden algae (Chrysophyta) 1 

In Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic a range of blue-green algae (approximately 25 

species) were recently discovered associated with mineral springs, and many of these are 

newly described in Azerbaijan, being previously only found in other countries. Diatoms have 

also been found in these same mineral springs, from which 46 species have now been 

identified. Nakhichevan also supports 24 species of mosses. 

Higher plants 

Approximately 4,500 species of higher plants are recorded in Azerbaijan (Table 3.5) , which 

represents around 65% of the floral diversity of the Caucasus region, and 11% of the world’s 

flora. The main areas of plant diversity in Azerbaijan are the highlands of Nakhichevan (60% 

of the species occur here), the Kura-Araz plain (40%), the Devechi-Kuba region east of the 

Greater Caucasus (38%), the centre of the Lesser Caucasus (29%), Gobustan (26.6%), the 

Lenkoran region in the Talysh Mountains (27%), and the Absheron region (22%). 

Table 3.5 Number of plant species in different groups 

Group 

Azerbaijan Nakhichevan 

Number of species 

Briophyta (mosses) 346 39 

Sporophyta (ferns and horse tails) 63 14 

Gymnosperms (non flowering plants) 24 18 

Angiosperms (flowering plants) 4,413 11 2887 12 

Total 4,846 2958 

Over 2958 species of higher plants have been recorded from the Autonomous Republic of 

Nakhichevan (see Table 3.5). Over half of the plants in the country are xerophytpes, but 

11 Including 910 monocotyledons, and 3,503 dicotyledons 

12 Including 627 monocotyledons and 2260 dicotyledons 

33 

2009



hydrophytes and halophytes are also represented. The majority of the plants described are 

perennials (65%) and biannuals (27%), along with bushes (6%) and trees (2%). 

Endemism 

There are over 400 species of plants endemic to Azerbaijan. These include around 210 

endemic lower plant species (including ten endemic species of lichen). Around 16 species of 

algae are endemic to the Caspian Sea 13 . In addition, 210 higher plant species are considered 

endemic to Azerbaijan, including species from 98 genera and 32 families. The centres of both 

higher and lower plant endemism are in the regions of Nakhichevan, the Talysh Mountains, 

and east of the Greater Caucasus. 

The Autonomous Republic of Nakhichevan is an important centre of plant endemism and 

supports over 50% of the endemic plants found in Azerbaijan. Endemism is particularly high 

within a number of botanical families, including legumes and peas, roses and wild cherries, 

asters and wormwoods and grasses (Gramineae) 14 . Recent re-evaluations suggest the territory 

has 112 country endemics, and 219 regional (Caucasian) endemics, and an additional 73 

plants are locally distributed within Iran and Turkey. Approximately 65 endemic species and 

sub-species are found only in Nakhichevan, including Scrophularia nachiczevanica, Stipa 

isajevi, S. karjaginii and Pyrethrum ordubadica. 

Conservation status 

More than 10% of plants in Azerbaijan are considered to be under danger of extinction, 450 

species of them were presented as exotic and extinct species in order to be included in second 

edition of the Red Book of Azerbaijan Republic. (although only 140 of them are mentioned 

in the current Red Book of Azerbaijan 15 ) and three species are listed as globally threatened in 

1989 - Iris acutiloba, Calligonum bakuense and Astragalus bakuenses. In 1982 the 

government recognised that 2,124 plant species in Azerbaijan are rare, endemic, threatened, 

or of economic importance (Government Order number 167). 

Just under 2% of the flora of Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic is listed in the Azerbaijan 

Red Data Book (54 species or subspecies are listed 16 ). In addition, some species have not 

been found in the territory for a number of years and may have become locally extinct 17 . 

1.1.5.5. Fauna 

Invertebrates 

Approximately 25 000 species of invertebrates have been recorded in Azerbaijan, of which 

90% are within the phylum Arthropoda (invertebrates with jointed legs), of which a further 

90% are insects (sub-phylum Insecta; see Table 3.6). The arachnids (spiders and mites) 

represent the second largest group of arthropods in Azerbaijan, with 1,870 species recorded 

within the three main orders (Araneae, Acariformes and Parasitiformes, each represented by 

700 – 800 species). Fewer crustaceans (order Crustacea) have been recorded, with a total of 

13 Four species of red algae, one species of brown algae (an endemic genus), one species of blue-green 

algae and ten diatom species. 

14 Endemism is high in Fabaceae, Rosaceae, Asteraceae and Poaceae. 

15 Red Book of Azerbaijan SSR, Published: Ishig, (1989). This classifies species by threat (0-4): extinct, 

endangered, rare, vulnerable or data deficient. 

16 Of particular note are Nectaroscordum tripedale, Ferula oopoda, Stenotaenia daralaghezica, Campanula 

radula and Salsola tamamschjana 

17 For example, Aristolochia bottae, Paeonia tenuifolia, Camranula minesterana and Triticum monococcum 

34 

2009



324 described from Azerbaijan. In addition, it is notable that the phylum Nematoda 

(nematode worms) is very numerous in Azerbaijan (with 1,084 recorded species). 

Table 3.6 The six most diverse orders of insects in terms of the number of species 

recorded in Azerbaijan 

Order Number of species 

Lepidoptera (Butterflies) 4500 

Coleoptera (Beetles) 4000 

Hymenoptera (Ants, bees, wasps and sawflies) 2500 

Diptera (Flies, mosquitoes and gnats) 2000 

Hemiptera (True bugs) 874 

Homoptera (Plant bugs) 739 

Vertebrates 

Azerbaijan supports 667 species of vertebrates (Table 3.7), across the main taxonomic groups. 

Table 3.7 Number of vertebrate species in Azerbaijan, including 

Nakhchivan: 

Class Number of the species 

Azerbaijan Including, 

Nakhchivan 

Roundnoses 1 - 

Fishes 101 29 

Amphibians 10 6 

Reptiles 54 35 

Birds 394 241 

Mammals 107 60 

• Roundnoses. 1 species of roundnoses of Azerbaijan fauna - Caspian lamprey 

(Caspimyzon wagneri) is covered. It was included as a exotic species in I edition of the 

Red Book of Azerbaijan Republic. 

• Fish. In total there are 101 species of fish in Azerbaijan, of which eight introduced and 

seven of these have become widespread 18 . Representatives of ten orders of bony fish 

(Class Osteichthyes) have been recorded from within the Azeri territory of the Caspian 

Sea, and of 13 orders are found in the inland waters of Azerbaijan. 

• Amphibians. Ten species of amphibians from five families are recorded in Azerbaijan 19 . 

These amphibian species live in a variety of landscapes, depending on their ability to 

adapt to harsh environments, and their different nutrient needs. They are commonly 

found in plains, semi desert habitats and the mountain foothills, where six species occur. 

Few species are found in deserts, high mountains or alpine meadows. 

18 Salmon (Salmo gardneri), trout (S. iridus), goycha salmon (Salmo iscgan), chum salmon (Oncorhynchus 

keta), leaping grey mullet (Liza saliens), grey mullet (L. risso), gambusia (Gambusia affinis) 

19 Common newt (Tritucus vulgaris), warty newt (T. cristatus), eastern spadefoot (Pelobates syriacus), 

Caucasian spadefood (P. cacasicus), green toad (Bufo viridis), common toad (Bufo bufo) common tree 

frog (Hyla arborea), H. arborea savignii, marsh frog (Rana ridibunda), R. macrocnemis. 

35 

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• Reptiles. There are 54 species of reptiles found in Azerbaijan 20 . Most of these species are 

found in semi-desert areas. Few are found in other lowlands or mountainous areas. 

• Birds. Azerbaijan is very rich in avifauna. There are 394 species of birds recorded from 

60 families. Around 40% of these species are native to Azerbaijan, however 27% of these 

species over-winter here, and 10% pass through on migration. Azerbaijan is a major route 

for birds migrating from Asia to Europe, and millions of birds pass through the country 

from Eastern Europe and western Siberia to South and West Africa each year. 

Approximately 1.5 million birds use the wetlands of Azerbaijan to rest and feed. 

• Mammals. Some 107 species of mammals have been recorded in Azerbaijan, three of 

which are introduced species 21 . Mammals from seven orders are represented: Insectivores 

(13 species in three families), Chiroptera (bats; 28 species), Lagomorpha (rabbits and 

hares; 2 species), Rodentia (rodents; 36 species), Carnivora (carnivores; 19 species, 

including one species from the suborder Pinnipeda). The most widespread species of 

mammal in Azerbaijan include the water rat (Arvicola terrestris), gray rat (Rattus 

norvegicus), wolf (Canis lupus), jackal (C. aureus), fox (Vulpes vulpes), stone martin 

(Martes foina), badger (Meles meles) and wild boar (Sus scrofa). 

The aquatic fauna is particularly notable in the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, with the 

rivers Nakhichevanchay and Arpachay showing the highest faunal diversities – mainly 

constituted by invertebrates, of which a number are newly recorded in the region 22 . Around 

225 vertebrate species are described from Nakhichevan, and 45 of these are considered rare or 

have a restricted range. Fish species richness is high, and many of these fish are important 

economically, aesthetically or scientifically. The fish (including sturgeon species) are 

dependent on the rich invertebrate and zooplankton fauna of these rivers as a key food source. 

One fish species is endemic to the Saggarsu River. 

(See: Appendices 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3) 

Endemism 

It is difficult to accurately estimate endemism among invertebrate groups, as the geographical 

distribution of many species has not been investigated fully. Known endemics are listed in 

Table 3.8. Furthermore, it is difficult to determine where the centres of endemism are 

amongst terrestrial invertebrates in the region due to the lack of studies, and difficulties 

undertaking this research. However, the endemism of spiders (Aranae) is known to be higher 

in the Greater Caucasus than in Talysh region, and other endemic spiders are known from the 

Lesser Caucasus. Invertebrate endemism from the Hyrcan region are frequently recorded in 

the literature. 

20 

Mediterranean spur-thighed tortoise (Testudo graeca), Caspian gecko (Tenuidactylus caspius), hornscaled 

agama (Trapelus nuderatus), Caucasian laudakia (Laudakia caucasia), toadhead agama 

(Phrynocephalus helioscopus), Ermias species (Eremias strauchi, E. velox, E. arguta and E. pleskei), European 

glass lizard (Pseudopus apodus), greenbelly lizard (Lacerta chlorogaster), Caucusus emerald lizard 

(Lacerta strigata), Eurasian blind snake (Typhlops vermicularis), Eryx jaculus, Dahl’s whip snake (Coluber 

najadum), spotted whip snake (C. ravergieri), Transcaucasian rat snake (Elaphe hohenackeri), Eirenis 

collaris, E. punctatolineatus, E. modestus. 

21 Wild island hare (Oryctolagus cuniculus), marsh beaver (Myocastor coypus), and American racoon 

(Procyon lotor) 

22 For example, Eucalamis lyra, Macrotrix rosea, Bosmina crassiocornis, Strularia lacustris, Herpobdella 

testacea and Hudroporus palustris 

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Table 3.8 Number of known endemic species from different invertebrate groups in Azerbaijan 

Group Number of endemic species 

Porifera (sponges) 3 

Coelenterata (jellyfish, corals etc) 1 

Platyhelminthes (flat worms) 3 

Acanthocephales 8 

Annelida 17 

Mollusca 126 

Anthropoda 738 

The greatest number of aquatic invertebrates is found in the Caspian Sea, which is not 

surprising given how the isolation of this water body may have contributed to speciation. 

A number of bee species are found in restricted ranges in Nakhichevan and may be unique to 

the Caucasus. 

Among vertebrates, the knowledge of endemism is much higher. 

• Fish. A number of fish species endemic to the Caspian Sea, mainly species from the 

orders Clupeiformes (herrings) and Perciformes (perch). Fifteen species, and six subspecies 

of Gobiidae (order Perciformes) in Azerbaijan are endemic, while most of the 

endemic freshwater fish are from the order Cypriniformes. 

• Amphibians. One species is found in Azerbaijan as Caucasian endemics (Pelodytes 

caucasicus). 

• Reptiles. Some species, related to Caucasian zoogeographical complex may be considered 

as Caucasian endemics. 

• Birds. Three regional (Caucasian) endemics are found in Azerbaijan. 

− The Caucasian black grouse (Tetrao mlokosiewiczi) is found in high 

mountain forests at altitudes of 1,700–3000m, in both winter and summer. It 

is considered Data Deficient by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, 

2000). 

− The Caucasian snowcock (Tetraogallus caucasicus) occurs in high 

mountains and meadows (at altitudes of 2,200-4,000m) and is listed in the 

Azerbaijan Red List. 

− The green warbler (Phylloscopus nitidus) is found in pine and mixed forests 

and in sub-alpine scrub at altitudes of 1,200-2,600m. 

• Mammals. Although there are no strictly endemic mammals in Azerbaijan, there are 

around 15 regional endemics present in the country. The Caspian white-toothed shrew 

(Crocidura caspica), Hyrcan forest mouse (Sylvaemus hyrcanicus) and Schelkovnikov's 

vole (Microtis schelkovnikovi) have been found in the Lenkoran district, but are also likely 

to be found in the adjacent territory of Iran. The long-tailed hamster (Calomyscus 

urartensis) is found in a small area in the mid-Araz valley of the southern Caucasus, and 

also in Iran. Vinogradov's jird (Meriones vinogradovi) is found in the arid territory of 

Nakhichevan, and also in adjacent countries. However, Nazarov's vole (Terricola 

nazarovi) has only been found in the Murovdag Range of the Lesser Caucasus. The status 

of the Caucasian leopard (Panthera pardus ciscaucasica) is unclear. 

Species endemic to the Caucasus region and Asia Minor include the Levant mole (Talpa 

levantis), Rade's shrew (Sorex raddei), Shelkovnikov's water shrew (Neomys 

37 

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schelkovnikovi), and the Caucasian snow vole (Chionomys gud). In addition, the Dagestan 

vole (Terricola dagestanicus) and Robert's snow vole (Chionomys roberti) are endemic to 

the Caucasian Range and the Lesser Caucasus, although the former has also been found in 

Asia Minor. The Dagestan tur (Capra cylindricornis) lives only in the Greater Caucasus. 

It is also thought that the Caucasian forest mouse (Sylvaemus ponticus) is the endemic of 

the Caucasus. The Caspian seal (Phoca caspica) is endemic to the Caspian Sea. 

(See: Appendix 3) 

Conservation status 

Forty species of invertebrates are listed in the Red Book of Azerbaijan as being threatened 

with extinction. These are all insects (from the orders Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, and 

Hymenoptera). In many cases, the insects under threat are large and attractive, and have been 

over collected. There are however, more species that are considered threatened by specialists, 

but are not included on this list. For example, there are 15 species of invertebrates that are 

found in Azerbaijan, that were included on the Red List of the former USSR 23 , but are not on 

the Azeri Red List. 

Among vertebrates, five species of fish are considered endangered in Azerbaijan due to 

anthropogenic activities. The species of sturgeon (Acipenser nudiventris) was included in the 

Red book of Azerbaijan in 1995, however six species of sturgeon found in Azerbaijan are on 

the IUCN red list of endangered species, and the status of sturgeons remains an issue of 

ongoing concern. These species are fished in Azerbaijan according to the rules of CITES 24 . 

A species of herring (Clupeonella cultriventris) is also on the IUCN red list. There are a 

further seven species of fish that are recommended for inclusion in the Azeri red book 25 . 

Five of the ten species of amphibians found in Azerbaijan are listed in the Red Data Book of 

Azerbaijan (see Appendix 3). A number of these species (Tritirus vulgaris vulgaris, T. 

cristatus, Bufo bufo, Pelobates syriacus, and Pelodytes caucasicus) have all been successfully 

bred in ex-situ conditions. Nine species of reptiles are listed in the Red Data Book of 

Azerbaijan (see Appendix 3). Of the bird species found in Azerbaijan, 21 are either 

considered globally or nationally threatened. These include the Critically Endangered longbilled 

curlew (Numenius tenuirostris), and the Endangered white-headed duck (Oxyura 

leucocphala). Six other species are classified as Vulnerable 26 , the other 13 are listed as 

Lower Risk or Data Deficient. A number of bird species are also considered to be of 

European importance. 

Around 33% of the mammals in Azerbaijan are included on either the Azerbaijan Red Data 

Book or as globally threatened in the IUCN Red List. In the Azeri Red Data Book, five 

species are listed as extinct, nine have limited distribution. Another ten species are 

23 Insects: Coenagrion mercuriale, Cordulegaster insignis, Epallage fatime, Bolivaria brachyptera, Haploembia 

solieri, Bradyporus multituberculatus, Saga pedo, Porphyrophora hamelii, Homoptera, Olivierina extensa, 

Xylocopa valga, Scolia maculata, Satanas gigas. Molluscs Pantastacus pylzovi, Eisenia muganiensis. 

24 CITES – The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.. 

25 European Chub (Leuciscus cephalus orientalis), Transcaucasian barb (Varicorhinus capoeta), Caspian 

barbel (Barbus brachycephalus caspius), Bulatmai barbel (Barbus capito capito), Mursa Barbus mursa), 

Danube bleak (Chalcalburnus calcoides longissimus), Blackbrow bleak (Acanthalburnus microlepis). 

26 Lesser white fronted goose (Anser erythropus), imperial eagle (Aquila heliaca), red-breasted goose 

(Branta ruficollis), corn crake (Crex crex), lesser kestrel (falco naumanni), marbled duck (Marmaronetta 

angustirostris) 

38 

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recommended for inclusion in the second edition of the Azerbaijan Red Data Book. Of 

particular note are the carnivores, as a number of carnivore species are thought to be locally 

extinct due to hunting and habitat change (for example striped hyena, Caucasian leopard and 

wild cat) all rare from Nakhichevan during the last century. Nearly a quarter of mammal 

species occurring in Azerbaijan have naturally restricted ranges, as a result of the relic nature 

of the populations, specific habitat requirements, or the species being at the edge of their 

range. 

I volume (on vertebrate) of the Red Book of Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic was 

published in 2006. 71 species of vertebrate were included in this Book. 1 specy of them refers 

to fish class, 1 specy to amphibia, 10 species of reptiles, 39 species of birds and 20 species of 

mammals. Lists of rare plant and animal species being under danger in Nakhichevan 

Autonomous Republic are specified in Appendix 3, Annex 3.1). 

1.1.6. Key threats to biodiversity 

1.1.6.1. Habitat loss and modification 

Land Conversion 

The major cause of biodiversity loss in Azerbaijan is the decrease in natural environments. 

This decrease has been due to human (anthropogenic) activities changing or destroying 

natural habitats. Industry and construction has had an extensive impact on natural habitats. 

For example, construction on the Absheron Peninsula has reduced the area of natural and 

unspoilt habitats, and as a result has caused a decrease in the biological diversity on the 

peninsula. 

As a result of political events, about 250,000 people fled from Armenia to Azerbaijan, and 

more than 700,000 people were displaced from the land occupied by Armenia. These people 

were settled in towns, temporary camps, hostels and incomplete buildings. New settlements 

have been constructed in order to improve the way of life for these people, but not all people 

could be resettled. Lack of public amenities is causing both health and environmental 

problems in these areas. 

Land degradation 

A major ecological problem in Azerbaijan is the gradual degradation of agricultural land. At 

present 3.6 million ha of land are subject to erosion. The soil of large areas of land is also 

becoming salinated. At present 1.5 million ha of land has been salinated to the extent that it is 

no longer suitable for agriculture. Salination and erosion of soils tend to be a result of poor 

irrigation and drainage systems, ground water extraction and wood cutting. In addition, the 

location of refugee and displaced persons settlements near river-banks and canals can degrade 

the integrity of the channels. 

Grazing by cattle has affected large areas of natural grassland habitats, and has contributed to 

soil erosion. Overgrazing by cattle reduces the amounts of plant matter available to other 

natural herbivores in the environment, thus decreasing their numbers and changing the 

dynamics of the community. Overgrazing can also cause the local extinction of plants in 

some areas. 

Loss of forests is also contributing to soil erosion and land degradation. Forest cover provides 

a protective function to surrounding lands, without it the soils become exposed and erode, and 

flooding onto neighbouring lands contributes to further soil erosion. 

39 

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Land is also affected by the uncontrolled use of fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides on a 

large scale , and such habitat modification may reduce biodiversity. In recent years there has 

been an increase in uncontrolled import of these chemicals into the Republic. There is also 

little awareness among farmers on the correct use of these chemicals. Overuse can cause a 

number of negative effects in natural communities and can threaten key species, especially 

those at the top of food chains. Over recent years, due to the decentralisation and privatisation 

of companies, and an increase in prices, the level of fertilizer use has decreased. At present 

90-95 % of fertilizers used are nitrogenous, as other types are too expensive. 

Habitat Fragmentation 

The fragmentation of ecosystems in Azerbaijan is prevalent in several ecosystems: 

Forests. The unavailability of natural gas, and other fuels has meant that some communities 

are using wood as their major source of fuel. Wood is taken from surrounding forests, and as 

well as destabilising soil complexes this unsustainable cutting fragments the forest 

ecosystems. In other parts of the country forests are being fragmented as economically 

valuable timber species (such as nut and oak) are illegally harvested at an unsustainable level. 

However improvement of some remote habitats with gas provision, prohibition of any use of 

forest resources by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and propaganda on usage 

of alternative energy sources among the population led to a positive change in this sphere. 

• Grasslands. Converting lowland grassy ecosystems into agricultural land, through 

ploughing and scrub removal is fragmenting the remaining area of natural steppes. This is 

also having a significant impact on the population of birds that rely on these unique 

ecosystems. Many of the steppe ecosystems are also fragmented by irrigation channels 

and associated constructions (particularly the Kura-Araz plain). 

• Rivers. The construction of hydrological dams on the major rivers flowing into the 

Caspian Sea, has created obstacles that effectively fragment the riverine habitat for some 

species (for example, as a result of the construction of the Mingachevir and Bahramtapa 

reservoirs on the Kura and Araz rivers). This has reduced the breeding areas for sturgeons 

because they are unable to pass the dams to reach breeding areas upstream and has 

resulted in a decrease in their population. 

The arid climate of the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, characterized by extreme 

temperatures and low rainfall, makes the land increasingly fragile with respect to 

anthropogenic impacts (from agricultural and industrial uses), and water management 

(including irrigation) has had particular impacts on the territory. Misuse of pastures, forests 

and agricultural lands has reduced their productivity. 

Some areas of land have been significantly degraded, including wide areas of grassland 

habitat along the Araz River, water bodies, forests, scrub and pasturelands. Salination has 

affected large areas of grassland in Nakhichevan (up to 10,000 ha), particularly in the districts 

of Sadarak and Julfa. Little efforts have been made to restore these lands over recent years, 

and as a result these lands are no longer suitable for agriculture and are reverting to marshes. 

Modern irrigation techniques would need needed in order to recover these lands. 

1.1.6.2. Over-use of biological and natural resources 

Overgrazing of grasslands and pastures 

During Soviet times, land was owned by the State, and as such, the people did not view the 

land as theirs to protect. This resulted in the overgrazing of grasslands and plains in many 

40 

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regions. Furthermore, due to the recent economic decline in the country, many people have 

attempted to increase their income from natural resources. This has been reflected by an 

increase in the area and intensity of land now grazed by cattle. The intensive use of pastures, 

such as in the Absheron and Gobustan area has accelerated the erosion of the soil, and the 

desertification of the land. Some refugee families and displaced persons have settled and now 

breed stock in several regions of the country. Unfortunately, because there is no summer 

pasture for their stock, they remain on the winter pasture all year, which leads to overgrazing 

to the extent that the pasture can no longer be used. Earth works and geobotanical survey 

were carried out in the years of 1949-1951 for the last time in natural fodder fields which 

located in the territory of Azerbaijan Republic and being main forage reserve of livestock 

(especially sheep breeding). There existed 8203.4 thousand heads of sheeps and goats on all 

natures of household in the republic up to January 1, 2008. 3049.1 ha winter quarters and 

1507.9 thousand ha summer pasture are required for provision of the sheeps and goats with 

winter quarters and summer pastures. As mentioned above, there exist 1395.1 thousand ha 

winter quarters for 2876.0 thousand heads and 563.9 thousand ha summer pastures (including 

areas under occupation) for 1939.4 thousand heads. Provision of the sheeps and goats with 

winter quarters totals to 35.1% and with summer pastures to 25.4% including pastures-grazing 

fields under occupation. 

Over use of forest resources 

In 1999-2000 there were many areas in the country where the local population did 

not have access to energy sources such as electricity, gas and coal, and imports of wood. The 

wood in the surrounding environment has therefore been cut for use as fuel. In many places 

wood has been cut at an unsustainable rate, and some of the forests that are being destroyed 

include those that are internationally important habitats. Forests in the occupied territories are 

also used unsustainably, and the volume of timber extracted from such forests by Armenians 

continues to increase. 

More grievous problem faced by countrywide silviculture is existence of 261 thousand ha (or 

25% of forest covered area) forest area and getting out of 10.2 thousand ha forest area from 

farming turnover as a result of Armenian aggression. The forests remained under the 

occupation are savagely cut and sacked. Cutting of valuable trees grown in these territories 

leads to critical limit of biodiversity protection. Intensified development of timber industry in 

Armenia is observed after occupation of territories of Azerbaijan Republic. So, although total 

volume of wood transportation equalled to 58 thousand m 3 in Armenia in 1989 it reached to 

206.6 thousand m 3 by increasing as 3.5 times in 1993 and volume of manufacturing and 

transportation of used wood reached to 14.2 thousand m 3 in 1993 from 7.2 thousand m 3 in 

1988 by increasing as 1.97 times. Nevertheless total area of Armenian forests is 3 times less 

than forest lands of Azerbaijan Republic. 

Despite forest area of Azerbaijan Republic is 3 times larger than Armenian forest area, 

Armenia Republic takes first place in fabrication of furniture among countries joined the 

Commonwealth of Independent States on account of forests under occupation. 

So that unanalogous endemic East plane forest covering small area (240 ha) at Basitchay 

basin in the territory of Zangilan region are savagely cut and sold to foreign countries for 

furniture making. Moreover, Araz oak having great umbrella and red oak disseminated on 

high mountain slopes in the territory of Lachin region can be exemplified. This specy being 

one of various species of high mountain oak is widely used in manufacturing of wine and 

brandy barrels and tuns because of wood redness. Ordinary nut in Lachin region and bear 

hazelnut, also beech, hornbeam trees and etc. are fallen incidentally without following 

forestry rules and handed over for furniture making. There cut off 163 walnut trees being 

41 

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under state forest fund and 507 walnut trees at areas not included in state forest fund in the 

years of 2002-2003. “Max Wood” society obtained 587 tons of wood stumps, 478 m 3 used 

trees and 37 m 3 manufacturing trees within 2001-2003. 

Prevailing over hunting regulations 

There occurred positive changes in this sphere within the past 6 years, it initially proceeds 

from adoption of necessary statutory acts (one Law and more than ten Decisions) in 

regulation of hunting and fishing activities in countrywide territory. At the same time, 

assigning of authorities on control over hunting activity and management of hunting areas to 

the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources as only state body led to effective control over 

the above sector. However noncompliance with quotas which assigned to regulate use of 

relevant biological resources - hunting fields and illegal hunting (fishing) adversely impact to 

number growth of several biodiversity species. 

Furthermore, low-level ecological education and environmental consciousness result in killing 

of some dangerous animals, for example snakes (in many cases the people kill amphibia and 

reptiles without distinction in venomous and unvenomous snakes) and, in failure to adhere 

hunting rules and regulations. 

Pet trade 

Efforts of smuggling in rare and exotic species of rich flora and especially fauna of 

Azerbaijan Republic is regularly observed and recorded. For example, due to a need of 

species such as valuable falcons including falco cherrug and ordinary falcon (falco 

peregrinus) for hunting purposes in arabian countries and sold on sufficiently expensive price, 

there exist facts on immigration of citizens of foreign countries (Iran Islamic Republic, Syria, 

Lebanon and etc.) and illegal poaching in order to capture and smuggle them. At the same 

time, selling of spawn of sturgeons on most expensive price in foreign market causes to 

efforts towards poaching in countrywide territory and smuggling. 

Water extraction 

Azerbaijan is rich in natural resources, and industrial development provides many 

opportunities for the country. Nevertheless, ecological problems have occurred because of 

the unsystematic use of these natural resources, and because modern technologies are not 

always applied to prevent these problems. The extraction of water resources is a particular 

issue. Of the 35 milliard m 3 of water resources in the country, 5 milliard m 3 of is ground 

water, and 21,4 milliard m 3 is in the 38 reservoirs, and 900 miilion m 3 in 450 lakes. 

According to State sources, approximately 10 milliard m 3 of water is used each year, and just 

under 3 milliard m 3 of this water is lost due to poor transportation systems. Of the water used, 

70% is from neighbouring countries, and there is an annual water deficiency of 4 milliard m 3 . 

In Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic over-grazing has affected the productivity of 

pasturelands, and many areas are suffering from erosion and other indications of degradation. 

For example, grass is scarce and unproductive in the Araz plains, which act as the winter 

pastures. These lands would now sustainably support up to ten cows/ha, but densities of up to 

300 cows/ha are still recorded. The most productive lands remain within Sharur district, and 

in some parts of Sadarak district. Nakhichevan’s forests have also been over-used as a source 

of fuel, charcoal and construction materials. 

Hunting is prevalent in Nakhichevan, and hunting quotas appear to be generally exceeded. 

Range of animal rare species is hunted. Fishing is popular for sport, recreation, subsistence 

42 

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and commerce. However, the fish catch exceeds official quotas, and in addition a range of 

illegal fishing methods are used and fish are illegally hunted during the spawning season. Fish 

populations are also affected by other factors such as: lack of regulation of water levels; lack 

of fish protection equipment in reservoirs; and pollution. Trade in a number of wild species is 

reported from Nakhichevan. These include wild boar, mouflon, mountain goat (bezoar), quail, 

venomous snakes, and wild plants such as tulips and orchids. 

Water extraction is an important issue in Nakhichevan, given its abundance of water bodies 

and underground water sources. The breakdown, inefficiency and leakage from irrigation 

systems and reservoirs result in losses of up to 40% of water due to be used for irrigation. 

Hunting is widely spread in Nakhichevan and violation of the assigned hunting and fishing 

quotas is allowed, plus a number of illegal hunting methods are broadly being used. 

Taking off water from water basins and underground water layers is very important for 

Nakhichevan. The accidents and unregulated fetching of water from irrigation system and 

water reservoirs lead to loss of water to the extent of 40% for irrigation purposes. 

1.1.6.3. Pollution 

Water pollution 

Challenges related to water resources serve as a background for problems on protection of 

environment in the region. Demand for countrywide water reserves and protection from 

pollution is put forward as a main strategic security action. 

As 3/4 part of territories of the country located in lower relief of Kura river basin being the 

largest water through-passage, pollution of river in the territories of neighbouring states 

causes ecological burden. So that average 350 million m 3 polluted waters are diverted to Kura 

river basin from Armenian territory, average 330 million m 3 polluted waters from Georgia 

territory. Diversion of untreated sewages by neighbouring states to Kura river basin adversely 

impacts to its hydrochemical process and water quality. As a result of transboundary 

pollution, water basins underwent to pollution in any extent, self-regeneration process 

disrupted hereof and they became dangerous source while using. During recent studies there 

observed sufficiently high density of copper, molibdenum, zinc, phenol and petroleum 

derivatives (10 times more than allowable norm/tolerance pollution standard) in river waters 

resulted from transboundary pollution . 

Usage of river waters which undergone to serious pollution, by 80% of the countrywide 

population in potable water supply and agriculture causes a danger for human health. 

Probability of infection of people with different diseases is built up due to use of poor potable 

waters. 

It was determined as a result of recent observations carried out on transit river flows by proper 

authorities of the country that majority of incoming transit flows are polluted with ingredients 

could cause a number of complications. Phenols and copper compounds take particular place 

among such ingredients. So as a result of analyses it was determined that in boundary zones 

with Armenia quantity of phenols in Araz river is 8-10 times more than tolerance pollution 

standard, copper compounds are 6-8 times more and accordingly the above in Aghstafa river 

are 4-9 and 7-11 times more than tolerance pollution standard. 

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Aghstafa river as a right distributary of Kura river comes in countrywide territory in Gazakh 

region passing through territory of Armenia Republic. Main reason for pollution of this river 

is characterized in direct diversion of mill waters and household-sanitary sewages in big cities 

of Armenia without treatment and disinfection. Aghstafa storage pond was founded in 1971 

and has water capacity of 120 million m 3 . Considering usage of waters of this storage pond in 

irrigation of areas in Gazakh and neighbouring regions, as well as in potable water supply of a 

part of Gazakh population, extent of ecological aggression can be imagined clearly. 

Waste waters of copper-molibdenum enterprises and big cities of Armenia are directly 

discharged into Okhchu river without treatment. Density of copper, molibdenum and other 

heavy metals in river waters in Azerbaijan-Armenia border are observed to be 10 times more 

than tolerance because of overpollution of these waters. As a result, microflora and fauna in 

river waters devastated, self-purification process stopped and subsequently, river basin 

became “dead zone”. 

Also, Sarsang water storage basin located in the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh which 

occupied by Armenia, is used as a pressure medium. Waters of the storage basin at 560 

million m 3 capacity are diverted to villages and habitats comprised by Azerbaijani population 

without considering seasonal needs of the area in winter and as a consequence, sharp water 

lack appears in this area during summer season. Habitats, agricultural fields and 

communication lines are undergone water flooding in winter. But in summer the people suffer 

from water deficiency and as a result of desertification, soil degradation is observed. Thereby, 

it complicates poor living condition of the local population, especially of internally displaced 

people and refugees. 

As 20% of the territories of Azerbaijan Republic was occupied by Armenian forces, severely 

exploitation of our natural resources and overpollution of water resources are observed 

resulted from isolation of these areas from ecological control and hereof, obtaining of exact 

information on pollution of Kura river basin became difficult to the last extent. 

Forest cover plays a specific role in solution of problems related to water resources. So, being 

sparsely forested country, totally 11% of Azerbaijan territory is covered with forest. Besides, 

25% of overall forest cover is under occupation as a consequence of Armenian aggression. 

Thus, insufficiency of forest resources can lead to exhaustion of natural water reserves 

gradually. 

At the present, all transit rivers of Azerbaijan undergo strong pollutant effect in upstreams and 

upcurrents. It can be characterized in very dangerous ecological tendency. 

At the same time, use of water factor by Armenian Republic as a scare gives rise to anxiety. 

In this standpoint, necessity of strictly addressing ecological safety factors must be taken into 

account as one of most significant challenges while establishing international safety systems. 

Practical actions should be carried out by regional states for prevention of transboundary 

pollution of water reserves in South Caucasus and specific steps should be taken for solution 

of current problems. 

Azerbaijan Republic has ratified Helsinki convention “On protection and use of boundary 

water flows and international lakes” in order to solve problems of interfrontier water 

basinswithin the framework of international norms in regional level, but neighbouring states 

have not joined this convention. 

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Main reason for unefficient use of countrywide water resources and occurrence of water 

basins pollution is characterized in insufficient provision of republic city and region centres 

and other dwelling places with sewerage system as well as enterprises with water treatment 

facilities and unsuitability of operated units and facilities. Untreated industrial and household 

waste waters of large cities in the country play a major role in pollution of water basins. 

22 mechanical and biological treatment facilities are functioning for purification of sanitarywaste 

waters in territory of the republic. It should be noted that nonoperation of the existing 

facilities in compliance with the regulations causes to pollution of water basins. 

Diversion of industrial and household sewages without complete purification to water 

sources, including to the Caspian sea causes to generation of other ecological problems. 

Encountering of biological resources in the sea is related to enhancement of adverse effects of 

anthropogenous factors. 

There exist more than 200 lakes with total area of 3325 ha in Absheron peninsula. Long-term 

use of old and obsolete technologies in oil mines caused to pollution of soil with oil and 

produced waters. These areas play a major role in pollution of the Caspian sea. The lakes lead 

to degradation and salinization of soil by impacting upon the environment and to 

underflooding of additional lands resulted from ground water rise and to emission of 

hydrocarbons and other repugnant substances resulted from evaporation and to underflooding 

of habitats, roads and communication lines. 

Fluctuation of level, pollution of sea waters and aggravation of ecological situation hereof, are 

main ecological problems of the Caspian sea. 

Key pollution sources of the Caspian sea consist of sewage waters of cities and industrial 

facilities located on its coasts and various pollutants coming from sea transport and oil mines. 

Sewage waters diverted to the Caspian sea which coming from coastal cities are considered to 

be major pollutants. Moreover operation of offshore oil fields and delivery of petroleum 

derivatives as well as sea transport pollute the Caspian waters more and more. 

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At the present, the Government of Azerbaijan carries out relevant actions in protection of the 

Caspian sea from pollution. Azerbaijan is an only country among the Caspian states that takes 

part in maintenance of environmental balance in the Caspian sea thorugh large-scale projects. 

“Integrated Actions Plan on improvement of ecological situation in Azerbaijan Republic for 

the years 2006-2010” stimulated greatly to works carried out in protection of countrywide 

environment. 

Allocation of funds for implementation of measures provided by the Integrated Actions Plan 

realizes timely solution of these problems. 

Different projects are executed on account of countrywide budget funds and under support of 

international financial institutions. Projects on water supply and treatment of waste sewages 

are implemented in small cities. There established “Azersu” Joint Stock Company in order to 

promote management in this sphere and to provide management of problems solution related 

to water supply and waste waters by an integrated body. This step which taken in solution of 

current problems in the country serves to reconstruction and enhancement of water supply and 

sewerage systems. 

Construction and reconstruction of water reservoirs, water pipelines, water supply and 

treatment facilities are performed by proper authorities under credit of the World Bank, Asia 

Development Bank and other financial institutions, including on account of the budget funds 

in order to improve quality of potable water. 

Thereby purification of water in compliance with requirements of relevant statutory 

documents in water treatment stations and supply of water consumers with uninterrupted and 

safe potable water are provided in phases. 

Presently, actions are ongoing in supply of villages of countrywide different regions with 

module water treatment facilities and installations which functioning in off-line/autonomous 

mode. There set and commissioned module type water treatment facilities in 122 habitats of 

12 regions with 224 thousand people overall by the Government according to Decrees of the 

President of Azerbaijan Republic concerning improvement of ecologically pure water supply 

of the population who used waters of Kura and Araz rivers. In general, as a result of execution 

of the Presidential Decrees water delivered for 800 thousand rural peoples will be purified in 

conformity with norms and regulations of the World Health Organization through installation 

of module type water treatment facilities in more than 500 thousand villages which limited in 

qualitative water opportunities. 

Soil pollution 

One of the existing key ecological challenges is undergoing of soil to erosion and degradation. 

Main reasons of the problem are natural climate condition, absence of farming continued for a 

long time, exceeding of livestock number as compared to ecological capacity of the lands and 

unregular grazing of the livestock, unexecution of cropping/cultivation rules, declining of 

forests, woodlands and greenery, deteriorated state of collector-drainage systems and other 

human-caused factors. Approximate 3 million ha area has undergone to salting, erosion and 

corrosion inthe republic. Zones surrounding Plain Garabagh, Upstream Shirvan, Central 

Mughan, Mughan-Salyan collectors was undergone to salting and soil erosion mostly. 

As a consequence of long-term incidental exploitation of natural resources, nonapplicability of 

new technologies, expansion of unlawful interventions in nature and other intensive 

anthropogenous impacts, major part of soil in Absheron peninsula was polluted with petroleum 

46 

2009



derivatives and processing, sanitary and etc. wastes and subsequently, there appeared a number 

of serious ecological problems in the region. 

Total area of lands degraded as a result of anthropogenous impacts in Absheron peninsula is 

33.3 thousand ha, including oil pollution areas 10.6 thousand ha. Lands mostly polluted with 

oil and petroleum derivatives are situated in the territories of Garadagh, Binagadi, Sabunchu, 

Surakhany, Azizbayov and Sabayil districts. 

Management of solid domestic wastes (urban ore) 

There exist serious problems related to management of solid domestic wastes in the country, 

especially in large cities of the republic. Absence of compliance with rules on sorting, 

transportation and disposal of wastes and refuse according to standards and nonutilization of 

them became danger source for public health alongside with pollution of the environment. 

125 illegal dump sites exist in Absheron peninsula together with 5 solid waste landfills. 

Current landfills do not meet ecological norms and standards. On the other hand, no any 

technologies are applied in utilization and treatment of plastic and polyethylene packing 

materials. 63587 thousand plastic packing materials were manufactured and removed after 

usage in the country in 2008. 

Management of hazardous wastes 

Overall quantity of hazardous process wastes totalled to 1650 thousand tons remained at areas 

of countrywide manufacturing enterprises for the end of 2008. Storage condition of the wastes 

do not satisfy ecological norms and standards in many cases and causes to source of danger 

for the environment and human health. 

No any technologies are applied in utilization and treatment of many hazardous wastes 

(scavenge fuel-lubricative materials, mercury lamps, accumulators and rubber tires). There 

accrued 47585 tons of fuel-lubricative materials, 0.8 tons of used mercury lamps, 313.3 

thousand accumulators and 693.6 thousand rubber tires in the country in 2008. 

Pollution of atmosphere 

Quantity of overall emissions from stationary and mobile pollution sources decreased due to 

declining of industrial activity in the country territory since 1990 year. Level of air pollution 

was in most serious state at processing units of oil-gas production and oil refinery and 

chemistry industry in large-scale cities such as Baku and Sumgayit. Emissions from mobile 

pollution sources increased considerably as a result of growth of vehicles number within the 

past period. 

Large cities in Azerbaijan suffered from pollution level of atmosphere precedently that it was 

deemed to be hazardous for public health. Declining of industrial production improved air 

quality considerably, but the situation can be varied towards deterioration due to gradually 

accruing vehicles. At the present, key sectors mostly polluting the atmosphere are comprised 

by transport, industry and energetics. Wastes from stationary pollution sources were less as 

80%, emissions from mobile sources were higher as 34% in 2008 as compared to 1991. 

Nevertheless total quantity of emissions from stationary sources equalled to 515 million tons 

2000, this figure totalled to 281 thousand tons in 2008. But intensive growth of vehicles 

number in the republic, especially in Baku city enhanced volume of deleterious gas emissions 

from mobile pollution sources within the last years. Harmful emissions from mobile sources 

equalled to 69.5% of overall wastes in 2008. 

47 

2009



Data about quantity of overall emissions on the country since 2000 and emissions on sources 

in 2008 are shown in the following diagrams: 

Quantity of emissions on the country, 

thousand ton (2000-2008 years) 

48 

Quantity of emissions on sources in 2008 

(thousand ton) 

As evident from outcomes of the monitoring, the atmosphere in large cities of the republic is 

undergone to pollution in various extent depending on lines of business working for 

countrywide large industrial cities. Volume of specific air pollutants such as dust, carbon 

monoxide, nitrided 4-oxide, fume and furfurol exceeds tolerance in several days in Baku city. 

Specific air pollutants such as chlorine, nitrided 4-oxide, hydrogen fluoride and others are 

referred to Sumgayit city. Out of repugnant substances only volume of hydrogen fluoride 

exceeds tolerance in Ganja city. Pollution of the atmosphere with nitrided 4-oxide is more 

peculiar in Shirvan city. It was observed that the atmosphere in Nakhichevan, Shaki, 

Mingachevir and Lankaran cities did not undergo to pollution. 

The Autonomous Republic of Nakhichevan faces a particular threat from water and soil 

pollution. At present the area lacks any modern facilities to clean water, and each day 2.4 

million m 3 of polluted water from Nakhichevan city is released into the Nakhichevan River, 

which in turn flows into the Araz River. This contributed to the increasing pollution levels in 

this river, which also receives 4-5 million m 3 of untreated water from Armenia every day, 

from both residential and industrial sources (including chemical factories). Sediment loads in 

the river have increased dramatically, heavy metals may be as much a five times greater than 

recommended safe levels, and nitrates are particularly high. Salination of land and associated 

pollution, as a result of poor irrigation practices, is also a major problem in Nakhichevan. 

Air pollution is less of a problem in Nakhichevan than in some of the larger cities of 

Azerbaijan, however concerns are increasing over the impact of vehicle emissions in the 

territory, particularly from trucks transporting goods over the mountain passes to Iran and 

Turkey. Lime and cement works in Nakhichevan may also contribute to air pollution. There is 

an increasing problem in relation to waste disposal from residential, industrial, market and 

office sources. 

1.1.6.4. Introduced and invasive species 

total stationary 

sources 

vehicles 

There are several notable species that are considered to be invasive in Azerbaijan. One of the 

most notable is the comb jelly Mnemiopsis leidyi - an introduced species that invaded the 

Caspian through the Volga Don channel. Its population has now multiplied to the extent that 

2009



the biomass of the population has exceeded the general productive biomass of the sea. There 

are no predators for this jelly in the Caspian, and climatic conditions favour its growth and 

reproduction. It feeds on animal plankton, including the planktonic larvae of fish, and as such, 

it is capable of seriously undermining economically and biologically important fish 

populations. This could also impact the rest of the food chain, as top predators, such as the 

Caspian seal and sturgeon species, are reliant on healthy fish populations. 

Of the 21 introduced samples of the invasive species American racoon (Procyon lotor), ten 

males and eleven females were released in the Ismayilli region in 1941 from where they have 

spread to other regions of the Republic. They are now widely spread throughout the forest 

ecosystems of Azerbaijan, and hunting of this species is encouraged throughout the year. 

Regarding plants adventitious weedery such as ambrosia artemisiifolia L, cuscuts L., 

acroptilion repens DC., solanium rostratum Dun spreaded out in countrywide flora and 

squeeze out thelocal species seriously. Plant ambrosia artemisiifolia L is widely spread in 

North Caucasus. Local people who had been awared of this plant as a quarantine weed since 

ancient times clean it throughout all areas massively in spring months of every year. Pollens 

of this plant lead to death of children under 10 age by splashing into their throats and cause 

illness of adults by infection. 

One of adventitious species which causes huge damage to greenery of nature and 

agrobiocenoses in Azerbaijan, is American white butterfly. Dissemination of this specy 

becomes more hazardous year by year in enduring all preventive control actions. 

1.1.6.5. Natural pathogens 

In Azerbaijan there are many natural pathogenic viruses and bacteria that affect livestock and 

other animals. Their impact on the animal can be varied, however a high load of parasites 

weakens an animal and can reduce its immune response. Some of these pathogens are 

naturally occurring (such as rabies, a highly infectious virus that damages the central nervous 

system of animals). Viruses and parasitic fungi can affect plants, and many have a damaging 

effect on crop plants. Pathogenic parasitic protozoa are not great in number. However some 

are present that infect animal species. 

A great number of parasitic worms have been recorded in Azerbaijan, including over 4,000 

species of Platyhelminthes (flatwoms) and 789 Nemathelminthes (nematodes) (of the 24 

species to animals and 318 species to plants cause diseases). Diseases caused by parasitic 

nematodes include a disease in foxes (particularly worrying because of the close links 

between the habitations of humans and foxes), a fatal disease found in populations of wild and 

domestic pigs, and other diseases that are found in domestic and wild animal populations. 

The impact of such disease on populations of wild animals is not fully understood. 

There observed and recorded H1N1 and H1N5 pathology virus diseases appeared in wildlife 

and occurred with human infection within the last years, namely since 2005. For the purpose 

of prevention and prophylactics of the diseases, State Commission was established attached to 

the Cabinet of Ministers in presence of high officials of proper authorities. 

Introduced pests (such as the Colorado beetle) have affected a number of agricultural systems 

in the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, as a result of lack of quarantine controls on 

imports. An agreement of trade and plant quarantine restrictions was reached between 

Azerbaijan and Iran in 2002, allowing for new regulations on transfer of seeds and other 

agricultural products, and avoids accidental transfer of key species likely to pose a threat to 

agriculture (including bacteria, fungi, nematodes, insect pests and weeds). 

49 

2009

1.1.6.6. Climate changes and natural disasters 



Climate change is an ecological problem on a global scale that poses a recognized threat to all 

ecosystems and associated biodiversity. Predictions suggest that climate change is likely to 

have a negative impact on ecosystems in Azerbaijan and may result in increased flooding and 

desertification, fragmentation of habitats, and species extinction. Over the last century the air 

temperature in Azerbaijan has increased on average by around half a degree Celsius, with the 

highest changes in temperature recorded from the Greater Caucasus and the Kura-Araz 

lowland (0.5 - 0.6 o C) ans lowest changes recorded in Minor Caucasus and along Caspian 

shoreline. 

Based on global models of climate change, experts estimate that average temperatures in 

Azerbaijan could increase by as much as 2 o C. Associated with this it is expected the incidence 

of temperature extremes will increase, as will extreme weather events. Particularly important, 

is a predicted decrease in humidity for much of Azerbaijan. 

Such increases could affect the availability of water (particularly in arid regions), which could 

in turn impact on irrigation, drinking water, and power production. Biological systems would 

also be affected under this scenario, with predictions of changed ecosystem dynamics and 

degradation of forest zones. The predictions suggest that the area of deciduous forest will 

decrease by 20%, while coniferous woodland will increase by 12%, and scrub coverage could 

increase by as much as 70%. The area of oak forest could reduce by 2-3%, although areas of 

beech would increase by 15% and hornbeam by 19%. 

The warmer climate could increase productivity for a number of plants, and this would favour 

increased agriculture (including vineyards, cotton and fodder production). However, the 

increase in evapo-transpiration from the soil could result in increased salination and erosion, 

ultimately leading to desertification. 

Insufficiency of water resources and their irregular distribution on areas and seasons lead to 

problems in use of water in many cases. Only 5-20% of annual water flows of rivers fall on 

vegetation period depending on the region. On the other hand, nevertheless water deficiency 

is observed in low-water periods, but flooding and overflowing appear in abundant water 

seasons. Enhancement of such occurrences was observed within the last years (Picture 1.1). 

Picture 1.1. Tendency of floods observed in the years of 1999-2008 

50 

2009



Depending on surface fluctuation of the Caspian sea, rising of ground water level caused to 

overflood of surrounding areas at length of 200 km from outfall of Kura river during 

inundation period since 1993. Riverside villages of Salyan, Neftchala, Sabirabad regions and 

bank areas of Shirvan city which located on riverside of Kura undergo underflows as a 

consequence of floods and inundations. As a result, large-scale facilities, farms, household 

plots, home grounds and dwelling houses in these areas seriously suffer hereof. (Picture 1.2). 

Picture 

Picture 1.2. Flooding observed in Kura river in the territory of Salyan region in 2003 

There observed heavy floods and overflows in the rivers refulted from snowmelt on 

mountainous areas and showery rains because of a sharp rise in temperatures over mountainy 

areas of Great and Little Caucasus within 2003-2008. 

2 persons died in Amirvar village of Dashkasan region caused by flood passing through 

Shamkir river in the evening on Aprel 6, 2003 due to snowmelt in uplands of Little Caucasus 

because of a sharp rise in temperature and 3 persons underwent to drowning death caused by 

flood passing through Gilgil river in Davachi-Siyazan region on May 18, 2003. Arable lands, 

houses and bridges were damaged as a result of short-term floodings in the rivers of Tala, 

Kurmuk, Kish, Shin, Dashaghil, Khalkhal, Alinja, Gala and Damiraparan in Balakan-Shaki 

and Oghuz-Gabala regions on May 22-23, at local time 22 00 -05 00 . 

There occurred floods in the rivers of Balakan-Shaki-Gabala region on July 10, 2004 at local 

time 03 50 -08 30 . Thus floods and inundations were observed in the rivers of Kish, Shin, 

Kurmuk, Tala, Gara, Katekh, Balakan and Mazim. Pedestrian overpass/footbridge in 

Mahamalar village of Balakan region was undergone overflows. Therefore potable water 

supply of Balakan and Shaki regions was disrupted. As a consequence of shower rains (hails, 

wind) in the evening on July 22, short-term overflows passed through Goshgar river across 

Dashkasan region and finally, 4 persons drowned in the river, electric piles were broken 

down, some houses were destructed and arable lands were damaged. 

As a result of shower rains on July 29, 2006 floods and overflows passed through the rivers of 

Mazim, Balakan, Gara, Katekh, Tala, Kurmuk, Kish, Shin, Ayri, Dashaghilcha in Balakan- 

Shaki region. As a consequence of overflow passing through Kish, Shin and Dashaghilcha 

rivers surrounding villages were damaged considerably and arable lands, underground 

telephone lines, roads and intervillage footbridges underwent to flooding. Therefore potable 

water supply of Shaki region was disrupted and some houses remained under flows. A flood 

was observed in Saraturk river as a result of shower rain on September 27 at local time 19 45 . 

51 

2009



Level of water rised as 95 cm, water consumption exceeded 15 m 3 /cm. Subsequently, 2 

persons died in overflow while rescuing cows. 

Araz water reservoir was completely filled up due to sharp rise in surface level of Araz river 

in first ten days of May 2007. There emerged overflows in lower parts of Givrag and Araz 

water reservoir. As a result of shower rains (35 mm in five minutes) in mountainous area of 

Shahbuz region on May 27 at local time 21 00 -23 00 a flood was observed in Bichanak and 

Garababa points of Nakhichevan river and subsequently, Yukhary Gishlag village was 

damaged considerably and 2 persons died in overflow. There emerged flooding and 

inundations in Asrik and Zayam rivers flowing through territory of Tovuz region as a result of 

shower rains on June 20 at local time 19 00 , they resulted in damages to roads and bridges in 

up and middle reaches of the rivers and there appeared a flood in Chair river resulted from 

heavy rains in area of Slavyanka village of Gadabay region and as a consequence, 2 vehicles 

and newly constructed bridge remained under flooding and territory of the region were 

damaged considerably. 

Due to shower rains (Guba 33mm, Khachmaz 23mm, Rustov 59mm, Gusar 38mm, Tangaalty 

20mm, Kupchal 16mm) on July 8 2008 at local time 20 10 , floods and overflows passed 

through the rivers of Gusar, Gudiyal, Valvala, Guru, Jaghajug, Gilgil. Level of water surface 

rised to 2 m. As a result, level meter units underwent to flooding, hydraulic works were 

damaged and some habitats, electric piles, roads and bridges suffered considerably, finally 1 

person died in overflow. Due to shower rains (Dashkasan 24mm and Goygol 22mm) on July 

8-9, floods and overflows passed through the rivers of Goshgar, Kurak, Dastafyurd and 

Ganja. As a result, level meter units underwent to flooding, hydraulic works were damaged, 

arable lands were out of use, telephone and electric piles were broken down, private cars 

turned over, roadways suffered and 1 military serviceman died in overflow while passing 

across the river. Level of water surface rised as 157 cm in Lankaran river, 105 cm in Sefidor 

river and 117 cm in Vasharu river due to shower rains (Dashdatuk 49.8 mm and Lankaran 

25.6 mm) on October 2-3 (in the evening and at night). There emerged short-term floods in 

Pensar river flowing across territory of Astara region and subsequently 2 persons, i.e. mother 

and her child remained under floods while passing through footbridge. Horned livestock and 

bridges underwent to flooding in some villages. 

Territory of Azerbaijan Republic is included in the list of areas, where floods and inundations 

are observed mostly along the world. Appearance of floods in Great and Little Caucasus 

mountain ranges which cover almost half of countrywide territory, occurs more intensively. 

Most floods and inundations happen in uplands of South slope of Great Caucasus and 

Nakhichevan AR. Countrywide economy suffers to the extent of 18-25 million USD because 

of floods occurred every year. The expected climate changes can cause serious difficulties in 

the future by increasing recurrence of floods and overflows. 

Glaciers 

Main glacier fields of Azerbaijan are situated in basin of Gusar river throughout Great 

Caucasus (Picture 1.3). It was determined as a result of studies carried out within the past 110 

years that area of glaciers diminished to 2.4 km 2 from 4.9 km 2 in this period and at the 

present, their freezing level passes through average 3500m altitude elevation. 

52 

2009

(Picture 1.3) 

Underground waters 



Underground waters constitute 24 million m 3 in a day (8.8 km 3 in a year) being formed in 

foothills of Great and Little Caucasus and plain areas, Nakhichevan and Talish ranges of the 

country. Presently, 5 million m 3 or only 20% of overall resources are used in a day. It shows 

possibility of widely usability of underground water potential of the country in water 

deficiency period. 

Hail 

Most recurrence of hail precipitations is observed in uplands and foothills of Great and Little 

Caucasus. Agriculture plants mostly suffer from frequent hail-hits. 

Strong wind 

Orographic features of the area enable west winds to become stronger along Kura river basin 

and west coasts of the Caspian sea as well as east winds in the territory of Nakhichevan AR. 

An increase tendency of number of very strong windy days (more than 25 m/second) is 

observed in the republic within the last years according to statistic analyses carried out. So 

that within 2002-2008 maximum speed of wind in territory of the republic reached to 38-40 

m/second in Baku and Absheron cities, Ganja-Shamakhy-Zardab-Zagatala regions (Alibay) in 

August 2005, in March 2006 and February, March, August, September 2007. 

Temperature extremums 

Temperature stresses adversely effects wildlife and vegetation. Exceedence of absolute 

maximums and minimums of air temperature were observed within past 15 years in the last 

century. Declining of minimum temperature in a considerable extent in winter led to damages 

for subtropic plants. Within 2002-2008 maximum air temperature in territory of the republic 

totalled to 40-43 0 hot (July 2005, August 2007) in some Central Lowland regions, minimal 

temperature equalled to 14-17 0 frost (February 2005, March 2006) in uplands. Minimum air 

temperature in Baku and Absheron peninsula was observed as 8.7 0 frost in January 2008 that 

it is a record. 

53 

2009

Fires 



Deciduous/leaf bearing forests dominate mainly in Azerbaijan, therefore forest fires are not 

specific for the republic. But fires happened as a result of anthropogenous impacts can cause 

to extinction of various species of flora and fauna. Majority of fires occur due to burning of 

fields after corn reaping mainly in arid cycle. So that 7 forest fires happened in 2002 covered 

46 ha area. But fire-fanging of hay, then trees appears in spring-summer seasons in Talish 

ranges. Six forest fires happened in 2007 covered 88.3 ha area, four forest fires in 2008 

covered 25.3 ha area. 

Surface fluctuation of the Caspian sea 

Beginning from 1978 up to 1995 485 km 2 coast line of Azerbaijan remained under water at 

the result of the growth of sea level 2.5 m in the Caspian Sea. At the result of the growth of 

the level in the Caspian Sea the sea is re-polluted with the oil products. Biogenic elements, 

organic substance, and heavy metals amounts increase at the result of washing the areas 

under water or water pressure. Also there were changes in the estuary of the Kura; so in 

comparison with 1979 the thickness of the sludge grew 1.2-1.4 m. According to the modern 

research results high humidity will be kept in the Caspian Sea basin as the result of climate 

heating. If the level grows 150 centimeter, in the Caspian Sea 87,7 thousand ha will remain 

under water and it will occupy 1,6% of Azerbaijan area. At the result of expected growth at 

the Caspian Sea level is one of the important factors to influence the multiply of mine fish. 

The multiply of mine fish in the river will decrease; the quality of the water on the coastline 

will deteriorate and the places for spawning will get to worth in shallow coastal areas 

because of the growth in the sea level. 

Surface level of the sea equalled to -27,12 m Bsn in 2008. Surface level of the Caspian sea 

was remembered with large fluctuations within the history. Surface level fluctuations cause 

great damages to the economy of Azerbaijan Republic. According to opinions of some 

specialists, surface level of the Caspian can rise up as 1.2 m until 2020. 

1.2. Problem Analysis 

1.2.1. Current status of biodiversity 

Declining of countrywide biological diversity observed in the last years occurs due to human 

caused environmental impacts. In this standpoint, human impacts upon natural complexes can 

emerge in direct or indirect, open or closed, serious and nonsensitive way. Unsufficient use of 

soil and water resources impacts upon atmosphere and climate features and is related to 

overuse of them in many cases. Change in climate and atmosphere features effects upon 

function of ecosystem and subsequently, causes to decreasing of biodiversity. 

At the present, very endangered and more sensitive ecosystems in Azerbaijan Republic are in 

Kura-Araz plains. Incorrect use of lands of these ecosystems resulted in erosion. 

Semidesert areas of Absheron peninsula underwent upon more anthropogenous impact. Other 

ecosystems undergone strong human-caused impact are shared by mountainous ecosystems. 

Declining process of mountain forest lines accelerated considerably in the last decades. 

Cutting off forests, illegal and unefficient use of summer pastures led to intensification of 

54 

2009



erosion processes and multiple floods and slides. Azerbaijan is one of sparsely forested 

countries. Illegal use and loss of forestries cause to anxiety and trouble (for example, loss of 

tugai forests). 

At the same time, construction of highways and pipelines in the areas enriched with 

biodiversity which resulted from countrywide economic development within the last years 

seriously impacts upon ecosystem by causing fragmentation, intensification of desertification 

and even local climate changes. 

Intensive grazing of the pastures results in decreasing of vegetation and, stagnation and 

variation of plant species in ranges and subsequently, generation of poisonous and harmful 

grasses and enhancement of erosion processes and finally, degradation of proper ecosystem. 

In addition, Azerbaijan’s wetlands are significantly affected by anthropogenic impacts. Some 

natural lakes in Azerbaijan (such as Mehman, Garasu and Marso) have almost completed 

dried out as a result of over-extraction, and others have been severely impacted as a result of 

the construction of irrigation and drainage systems (such as Bozgobu and Sarisu lakes). 

Many of these lakes were once important breeding grounds for fish. Lowland lakes are 

generally fed from drainage channels (as the main rivers are regulated) and this increases their 

salinity, and dramatically impacts aquatic life, including fish. A number of these lakes are 

also polluted with outflows from industrial and domestic sources, and may be contaminated 

with oil from unsealed wells, the ecological situation of these wetlands is becoming acute. 

The situation in the Caspian Sea is a matter of both national and international concern. As a 

closed system, this sea is particularly vulnerable to human impacts, and its biodiversity is at 

risk from a number of factors, including the recent accidental introduction of Mnemiopsis 

leidyi, pollution loads and over-fishing (particularly of valuable fish, such as sturgeon). 

Disruption of balance in ecosystems leads to complete demolition of vegetation and animals 

being an integral part hereof. Areals of several valuable and economically important tree and 

plant species diminished considerably within the last 50 years caused by human activity. 

Besides, it is recommended to include 450 plant species and 220 animal species (total 670 

species) to the Red Book of Azerbaijan which undergone to extinction. Disruption of natural 

habitats of animals lead to rapid extinction of a majority of them, especially invertebrates. 

Animals (such as striped hyena, namely Hyaena hyaena) from invertebrate ones accustomed 

to restricted areas undergo special danger. As a result of overmuch and unefficient use, wild 

vegetables and herbs, fruits and berries suffer, too. Particularly, en masse collection of herbs 

for sale encounter exhaustion of resources and some species for endangering. 

Plant and animal species have also been affected by hunting and over-collection, and by the 

impacts of parasites and diseases. 

1.2.2. Direct causes of biodiversity loss 

Human activity underlies most of the causes of biodiversity losses in Azerbaijan, and 

humankind has significantly affected much of the land, through activities such as: 

• Land conversion, predominantly for agriculture, but also for construction and industry, 

has reduced the area of natural habitat in Azerbaijan and results in fragmentation of the 

remaining landscape. 

55 

2009



• Land degradation, resulting from overuse, erosion and fertilizer burdens reduces 

productivity and affects the likelihood of natural habitats reestablishing. It is estimated 

that 70% of pastures have undergone erosion, particularly the more fragile summer 

pastures. 

• Pesticide use, particularly the legacy of high levels of application of toxic chemicals 

during the Soviet era, has resulted in long term pollution of some soils, and leaching into 

waterways. Pesticide use is currently under improved State control, however some illegal 

application of imported and unregistered pesticides is thought to occur. 

• Irrigation has impacted much of the lowlands, and canals have fragmented much of the 

wider natural habitat, preventing free migration of animal species (especially as they lack 

appropriate bridges or escape paths for wildlife). Over recent years the collapse of these 

systems due to lack of repair has resulted in changes in the chemical composition of soil, 

increase in the ground-water level and gradual increases in salinity in some areas. 

• Water regulation, including the construction of dams and management of water flows 

and extraction levels, has affected aquatic habitats significantly, particularly in the absence 

of adequate measures for protection of fisheries and other aquatic species 

• Pollution, including the legacy from Soviet industry and agriculture, and ongoing 

pollution of waterways from domestic and industrial sources. In some cases older 

infrastructure relating to the oil industry is a source of pollution. The outflow of rivers into 

the Caspian Sea contributed to the pollution loads detected in the marine habitat. 

• Transport infrastructure (including over 2,000 km of railway, 25,000 km of roads and 

4,000 km of oil and gas pipelines) has caused habitat fragmentation, and represent barriers 

to the movement of wildlife, resulting in genetic isolation of sub-populations. 

• Over-use of biological resources has been ongoing, with difficult economic conditions 

resulting in overexploitation of forests, medicinal plants and animals (including fish). Of 

particular note has been the decline in fisheries from both the Caspian Sea and inland 

waterways as a result of over-catch along with other factors such as water extraction and 

pollution. The sturgeon issue is one that requires international collaboration in order to 

prevent further over-fishing. 

• Invasive species. Delivery of Mnemiopsis leidyi into the Caspian sea caused to extinction 

of tens of alevins and generally, feed provision of fishes. 

Regarding plants adventitious weedery such as ambrosia artemisiifolia L, cuscuts L., 

acroptilion repens DC., solanium rostratum Dun spreaded out in countrywide flora and 

squeeze out thelocal species seriously. 

• Climate changes. Global climate changes effect to countrywide biodiversity in any 

extent. As a result of overall climate warming, biodiversity more undergoes effect of 

stress factors by rising up of humidity index in some arid areas and by declining of 

cloudage and moisture in other areas, at the same time climate changes result in serious 

change of hydrological regime of many rivers and lakes that it adversely impact upon 

water bioresources. 

1.2.3. Underlying causes of biodiversity loss 

A range of issues drive the ongoing decline of biodiversity in Azerbaijan, as in the rest of the 

world: 

• Economic development. Over the last decade the Republic of Azerbaijan has seen major 

social and economic change, resulting from independence, economic downturn, and 

subsequent market reforms and recovery. The legacy of Soviet overuse of natural 

resources persists with regard to high pollution and pesticide burdens. In addition, the 

56 

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economic downturn affected the maintenance of infrastructure, including irrigation 

systems, leading to its deterioration and subsequent environmental impacts. The problems 

associated with market reforms, coupled with the costs of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict, 

resulted in reduced living standards for much of the population, and greater reliance on 

natural resource use. 

• Land use. In order to feed the population and to support economic growth, significant 

areas of land have been converted from natural ecosystems to agricultural use. In addition, 

to this loss of natural habitat, other ecosystems are also affected by ongoing use – 

particularly with regard to grazing in lowland plains and mountain meadows. The lack of 

regulation of some grazing activities, and inappropriate use of meadow habitats, is 

contributing to soil erosion and changes in plant community compositions, which 

ultimately affect biodiversity. 

• Conflict. The ongoing conflict with Armenia over Karabakh has contributed significantly 

to biodiversity declines. All terrestrial ecosystems have been affected – either directly or 

indirectly – by the conflict over Karabakh, which has resulted in destruction of extensive 

areas of woodland (mainly through fire) and ecological impacts to fauna and flora within 

the occupied territories. The occupation of territories by Armenian forces has resulted in a 

significant increase in refugees and internally displaced people (together representing 

around 1 million people or 12% of the population). The long-standing conflict has affected 

the country’s economy and living conditions, resulting in greater exploitation of natural 

resources. Refugees and internally displaced people often live in temporary settlements, 

and rely on intensive grazing and use of fuel wood, resulting in local land degradation 

around these settlements. In addition, a number of the Strict Nature Reserves and 

significant forest reserves are located within the occupied territories. 

1.2.4 Key sectors affecting biodiversity 

A number of economic sectors directly impact biodiversity in Azerbaijan. 

• Agriculture. Reform of the agricultural sector over the last few years has reduced its 

impact on biodiversity. Previously under the Soviet system productivity was maintained 

by extensive use of pesticides and mineral fertilizers, and through the establishment of 

extensive monocultures. However, a significant portion of Azerbaijan’s land remains 

under cultivation, and the associated biodiversity is still directly affected (for example, the 

regulations in place to protect wildlife during harvesting are not always observed, fields 

are burnt after harvest, unregistered pesticides and inappropriate fertilizers are used; 

pastures are intensively grazed, and irrigation systems affect soil and water bodies). 

• Forestry. In general, the area of forest continues to decrease in Azerbaijan, and species 

composition and structure of woodland is changing. Lack of sources of fuel (such as gas) 

result in a reliance on wood for fuel, which is probably the greatest impact on forest 

resources. In addition, timber is cut illegally for construction, which results in the removal 

of older trees from the forests. 

• Industry. Although pollution from industrial sources has decreased over the last decade 

as the economic status of the country changed, the legacy of pollution from previous years 

remains a problem, with poor decommissioning procedures leaving behind untreated 

industrial waste and obsolete equipment. 

• Transport. The density of roads and growth in the transport infrastructure (including 

canal construction) has resulted in greater fragmentation of the habitat. In addition, there is 

now a growth in pollution from vehicle emission sources. 

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• Construction. In many cases new buildings are constructed without appropriate planning 

or impact assessment, based on local regulations, without effective State oversight. As a 

result some houses have been built in inappropriate areas (for example in pipeline buffer 

zones, and on the protected shores of lakes and the Caspian Sea). 

• Oil Industry. Oil extraction and refining industries have had significant effects on 

biodiversity and on the general environment. For decades ground (soil) tanks and open 

canals have been used to collect oil flowing from onshore wells and to ensure flow of oil 

to processing centres. The lack of the necessary technologies, inappropriate drilling 

regimes, poor maintenance and disregard of environmental protection measures have 

contributed to impacts in both onshore and offshore ecosystems. On the Absheron 

Peninsula 7,400 ha has been badly contaminated, and the legacy of earlier oil extraction 

remains in polluted lakes, soil and ground water. The extent of oil extraction and 

processing has now decreased and new technological processes have been introduced. 

However the State oil company is still considered to be a major contributor to atmospheric 

pollution, and the issue of waste water discharge into the Caspian Sea remains a cause for 

concern 

• Mining. The mining industry affects biodiversity in a number of ways, including direct 

destruction of natural habitats (such as destruction of pastures for quarrying), widespread 

erosion and pollution, increases in the transport network, extensive slag heaps covering 

surrounding areas, coupled with lack of appropriate restoration of the lands. Mining 

activities affect significant areas of mountain habitats in particular, and these have been 

related to increasing erosion in these areas. Many of the by-products of mining contain 

heavy metals contaminate surrounding soils and water courses. 

• Tourism. If unregulated, tourism can significantly affect natural habitats and species. 

Unplanned and inappropriate construction in natural areas (for example in coastal, forest 

or green zones), coupled with increased transport and development of new paths in 

ecologically sensitive areas, increased collection of rare plants and increased litter are all 

problems. 

1.2.5. Restrictions on protection process 

Main factors impacting upon protection and rehabilitation of biological diversity: 

• Deficiency of financial opportunities; 

• Lack of information on proper management methods; 

• Weak and incomplete execution mechanism of the adopted laws; 

• Low-level environmental conscious and culture of the population; 

• Weakness of ecological education and enlightenment; 

• Underdevelopment or absence of regional cooperation; 

• Dullness of economic encouragement in protection of biological diversity; 

• Delay of the country adherence to a number of necessary international conventions 

(Bonn Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals, Rotterdam 

Convention on prejustified reconciliation procedure on international trade for several 

dangerous chemicals and pesticides). 

1.2.6. Opportunities for biodiversity conservation 

A number of developments will support further efforts to improve biodiversity conservation 

in Azerbaijan. 

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The Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan outlines the core principles of environmental 

protection, and the legislative basis for this has been put in place, along with an improved 

environmental management structure has been developed. The Constitution, which was 

adopted after a national referendum in 1995, sets out the principles of environmental 

protection, ownership of natural resources and the regulation of this sector. Since then the 

Milli Mejlis (Parliament) has further developed the legislative basis for regulating 

environmental protection, and around 20 laws have been adopted to bring the country in line 

with international standards on environmental protection. 

The Government of Azerbaijan Republic pays great attention to solution of ecological 

problems, including protection and management of biological diversity. In this regard, lines of 

priority importance have been defined. 

According to Convention of Biological Diversity of the United Nations, there established 

State Commission in order to fulfill obligations and commitments undertaken by Azerbaijan 

Republic and to ensure implementation of integrated measures for prevention of extinction 

danger of genetic resources of plants, animals and microorganisms. 

“National Programme on Ecologically Sustainable Social-Economic Development” which 

aimed at protection of current ecological systems and economic potential and efficient use of 

natural resources to provide needs of the existing and future generations of Azerbaijan 

Republic and “National Programme on forest renewal and enhancement in Azerbaijan 

Republic” aimed at renewal of forests through regionalized species and increasing of quality 

and productivity and, enhancement of countrywide vegetation by planting new forests and 

greeneries through addtional land plots which approved by Decree №1152 dated February 18, 

2003 of the President of Azerbaijan, create wide opportunities for protection and conservation 

of biological diversity. 

“National Strategy on protection and sustainable use of biological diversity in Azerbaijan 

Republic and Action Plan” approved by Decree №1368 dated March 24, 2006 of the 

President of Azerbaijan Republic seriously stimulated and promoted definition and execution 

of priority commitments. 

The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources established under Decree dated May 23, 2001 

and organized its countrywide activity efficiently. As evident from one fact, only total area of 

protected areas reached to 10.1% by increasing from 4.5% in relation to the country territory 

in the course of the Ministry activity. 

About 60 NGOs from more than 400 ones established in the republic work for ecology sector. 

(See: Annexes 9.1 and 9.2) 

1.2.7. Further phases 

This document was prepared based on the requrements of Convention of Biological Diversity 

and involves current status of biological diversity in the territory of Azerbaijan Republic and 

factors impacted upon it. 

The report has been drafted in the presence of all concerned parties in view of their opinions 

and proposals. 

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Chapter 2 

Current Status of National Biodiversity 

Strategies and Action Plans 

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2.1. Legislation and policy on use and protection of 

biodiversity 

Legislative framework in protection and use of biological diversity of Azerbaijan is created as 

follows: 

- Laws of Azerbaijan Republic providing for public administration in protection of the 

environment, including air protection, conservation and use of wildlife areas, organization of 

hunting and game husbandries, implementation of hunting activity and protection, 

enhancement and use of shooting preserves and organization of protected areas; 

- decrees and orders of the President of Azerbaijan Republic and decisions of the Cabinet of 

Ministers ensuring execution of provisions stipulated in Laws of Azerbaijan Republic; 

- statutory acts of central executive powers (ministry and etc.) providing for proper actions in 

conservation of the environment and protection of biological diversity. 

National legislation on protection of biological diversity is established in view of international 

treaties (Agreements and Conventions) to which Azerbaijan Republic adhered. 

2.1.1. Protection of the environment and legislation regulating this sphere 

Principles for protection of the environment, belonging of natural resources and regulation of 

this sphere were stipulated in the Constitution of Azerbaijan Republic adopted by all-people's 

referendum on November 12, 1995. According to the Constitution natural resources belong to 

Azerbaijan Republic without prejudice to rights and benefits of any individuals or legal 

entities, it is duty of every citizen to protect the environment and everybody has right to life in 

safe environment. Also it was established that everybody has right to collect information 

about current position of the environment and to compensation for damages to his/her health 

and property due to ecological disruption. Nobody can endanger or cause damage to the 

environment and natural resources more than tolerance provided by law. It is specified that 

the state ensures and maintenance of ecological balance and conservation of legally set 

species of wild plants and animals. 

The state should adopt scientific bases and modern methods developed in order to preserve 

soil, earth core, wildlife, purity of air and water and, to use them efficiently and to provide 

increase of human beings under scientific bases and to improve and enhance the environment 

for benefit of current and future generations welfare. 

Legislation of Azerbaijan Republic on protection of the environment is comprised by the 

Constitution of Azerbaijan Republic, Law of Azerbaijan Republic “On nature conservation” 

and statutory acts on preservation and use of separate components of the environment (water, 

soil, atmosphere, forest and etc.). 

It should be noted that there created legal framework in accordance with local and 

international standards and legal norms on nature conservancy as applied in other spheres of 

Azerbaijan after gaining independency. More than 20 laws regulating nature conservation 

were adopted in the last years. 

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2.1.2. Laws on protected areas and sites 



According to Law of Azerbaijan Republic “On nature conservation”, state nature reserve fund 

is a collection of environmental sites contains ecological, scientific-research, rare origin, 

educational and historical values. Protection of state nature reserve fund possesed scientific, 

ecological, historical and genetic values is provided by imposing restrictions and bans upon 

usage of them. Protected areas are comprised by natural complexes and sites of importance 

like special ecological, scientific, cultural, aesthetic and sanitation in nature conservation and, 

areals of rare and endangered fauna and flora species and, land and water basin (aquatory) 

areas which excluded from farming turnover completely or partially, permanently or 

temporarily and air space above them. 

According to Law of Azerbaijan Republic “On protected areas and sites” organization and 

conservation of protected areas are based upon principles such as preservation of biological 

diversity and natural ecological system, rational utilization of protected areas and sites, 

efficient use hereof for development of science, culture, education and enlightenment and, 

growth of tourism and recreation in view of social-economic factors and interests of the local 

population, state regulation and control over protected areas and sites, paid-for usage of 

protected areas and sites in legally provided cases, participation of peoples and communities 

in conservation of protected areas and sites and international cooperation. Protection, 

sanitary-protection and other safeguard zones can be established in land and water areas 

adjoining protected areas and sites in order to ensure special protection. Any kinds of activity 

might adversely impacting upon natural complexes and sites of protected areas are prohibited 

in lands of these zones. 

Lands of protected areas and sites include nature preservation, nature reserve, sanatoria, rest 

(recreation) and historical-cultural sites subject to rational utilization and legal regime. 

Putting into use of other category lands is governed by the land legislation of Azerbaijan 

Republic for the purpose of protected areas organization. 

Land plots under private ownership, use and lease can be purchased, use and lease rights 

hereof can be terminated in a manner provided by the land legislation of Azerbaijan Republic 

and according to terms and conditions stipulated in Civil Code of Azerbaijan Republic in 

order to organize protected areas. 

Land plots where protected areas and sites located on, are used by consent of owners, users 

and tenants without disappropriation of them or subject to easement (right to a restricted 

utilization of someone’s land plot) by court decision. 

Pursuant to the Land Code of Azerbaijan Republic, lands of protected areas are as follows: 

- nature conservancy lands (lands of surface water flows and water protection zones of water 

reservoirs; protection zone for spawning; safeguarding forests; forest plantations for 

protection of pastures, fields, waters and against erosion and other land plots for nature 

preservation); 

- nature reserve lands (lands of reserves, sanctuaries (except to hunting sanctuaries), natural 

monuments, natural (national) dendrological and zoological parks, botanical gardens); 

- sanatoria lands (lands of sanatoria and resorts (beaches, mineral water sources, therapy oil, 

mud fields and etc.) used and can be used for arrangement of diseases prophylactics and 

treatment which contain favourable natural treatment factors); 

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- rest (recreation) lands (lands planned and used for organization of rest, tourism, physical 

culture and sport activity); 

- historical-cultural lands (historical-cultural reserves, commemorative parks, cemeteries, 

graves, archaeological sites and rare geological formation). 

Furthermore, protection and sanitary zones are created around reserve lands, habitats, 

sanitation zones, rivers, springs, water basins, hydrotechnical and water intake facilities, 

potable and technical water supply sources. 

Water facilities of preferential scientific, historical, cultural, aesthetic and nature conservative 

importance are considered to be protected water facilities. They are referred to protected 

water facilities of countrywide, regional and local importance and are excluded from farming 

turnover completely or partially, permanently or temporarily under the legislation. 

Protected water facilities can exist as a separate natural area or a part of natural area of 

preferential protection provided by the legislation of Azerbaijan Republic. Following 

categories of protected water facilities are specified in Water Code of Azerbaijan Republic: 

- Areas of internal waters of Azerbaijan Republic and section waters of the Caspian sea (lake) 

belonged to Azerbaijan; 

- wetlands; 

- running waters and water reservoirs referred to exotic natural landscapes; 

- protection zones around source and outfall of water facilities; 

- spawning and hibernation/wintering grounds of valuable fish species; 

- water facilities being an integral part of forests, wildlife and other protected natural 

resources. 

There defined water protection zones for maintenance of water facilities in compliance with 

ecological requirements and prevention of pollution, contamination and exhaustion of surface 

and subsurface waters as well as conservation of fauna and flora areal and, coastal protection 

zones along boundaries of them. 

“General framework and principles for soil zonation”, “Rules for categorization of protected 

water facilities”, “Rules for determination of water protection zones and extent/scope, 

boundaries and use of coastal protection zones”, “Rules for referring of forests to protective 

categories and transfer of forests from one protective category to another protective category” 

and etc. which approved by proper decisions of the Cabinet of Ministers of Azerbaijan 

Republic, are applied in determination of the protected areas. 

2.1.3. Laws on flora and fauna 

No specific law on protection of biological diversity exist in Azerbaijan Republic. But many 

laws regarding conservation and use of biological sites adopted in the last years. The laws on 

conservation and use of flora and fauna are as follows: 

- On wild fauna (1999); 

- On fishing (1998); 

- On Forest Code (1997); 

- On protected areas and sites (2000); 

- On hunting (2004); 

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- On phytosanitary control (2006). 



Proper decisions were adopted by the Cabinet of Ministers in relation to execution of these 

laws and rules regulating this sphere were approved by the same decisions hereof. A number 

of statutory documents were compiled and approved by central executive powers (the 

Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, the Ministry of Agriculture) providing for 

relevant actions in nature conservation and protection of biological diversity in order to 

ensure execution of such laws and decisions. But there emerged a necessity of relevant 

amendments to the Law “protected areas and sites” in order to ensure full effectiveness of 

laws and to eliminate discrepancies and gaps. Information on biosphere rezerves were added 

and elaborated again by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources in view of adequate 

amendments, thus the opinions of proper ministries and bodies were submitted to the 

Government for review of draft Law. 

It should be noted that adoption of relevant laws is deemed expedient to ensure entire 

conservation and use of genetic resources and flora of Azerbaijan Republic. 

There elaborated draft Law of Azerbaijan Republic “On safety during activity of gene 

engineering” regulating the relations in promotion of safety in gene engineering activity, 

nature conservation and protection of public health and, proper additions and amendments 

were made in the draft considering opinions and proposals of the related ministries and other 

organizations. The draft Law will be submitted to the Government to be accepted and 

adopted. 

2.1.4. Land use and legislation for development 

The land legislation of Azerbaijan Republic is comprised by Land Code and other statutory 

acts. The lands of Azerbaijan had been under state and collective farm-cooperate ownership. 

As a result of the reforms countrywide lands were granted to state, municipal and private 

ownership. 

As it been in all spheres, a need had arisen for legal framework entirely covering the process 

and ensuring its dynamism in order to regulate land relations and to implement land reform. 

In this regard, the following laws and more than 40 other statutory documents were adopted in 

the last years: 

- On land reform (1996); 

- On earth core (1998); 

- On state land cadastre, lands monitoring and land regulation (1998); 

- On soil fertility/land capability (1999); 

- On land market (1999); 

- Areas and lands of municipalities (1999). 

Principles for implementation of land reforms were established in the Laws of Azerbaijan 

Republic such as “On reform for state owned farms and collective farms” (1995) and “On 

land reform” (1996). The Laws of Azerbaijan Republic adopted afterward - Land Code of 

Azerbaijan Republic (1999), Decree of the President of Azerbaijan Republic “On some 

actions regarding acceleration of agrarian reforms” (1999) and other statutory acts created a 

strong legal framework for land reform. 

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It should be noted that there emerged a necessity of additions and amendments in relevant 

statutory acts, i.e. bringing into line with each other of them, in relation to enforcement of the 

Laws adopted within the last years. 

2.1.5. Laws stipulating legal bases for prevention of environmental pollution 

Legislative acts on prevention of environmental pollution include relevant Laws of 

Azerbaijan Republic, decrees and orders of President of Azerbaijan Republic, decisions of the 

Cabinet of Ministers, inctructions/directions of central executive powers and other documents. 

The following laws on nature conservation and its regulation were adopted in the last 5 years: 

- On nature conservation (1999); 

- On ecological safety (1999); 

- On air protection (2001); 

- On production and household wastes (1998); 

- On water supply and sewage (1999); 

- On hunting (2004) 

- On phytosanitary control (2006). 

- On beekeeping (2009) 

It should be noted that proper clauses were stipulated regarding prevention of environmental 

pollution in the laws of Azerbaijan Republic related to natural resources such as Water Code 

(1997), Land Code (1999), Hydrometeorology activity (1998), On wild fauna (1999), On 

fishing (1998), On radiation safety of population (1997). 

Furthermore, the Cabinet of Ministers of Azerbaijan Republic adopted relevant decisions on 

environmental pollution in view of enforcement of the above laws and a number of Rules 

regulating this sphere hereof were approved. 

2.1.6. Legislation on other spheres impacting upon biodiversity 

It is very essential to establish administrative, civil and criminal responsibility due to violation 

of requirements of legislative enactments on protection and use of biological diversity. 

Fine sanctions were contemplated against natural persons, public officers and legal entities in 

38 clauses of Administrative Offence Code of Azerbaijan Republic for administrative 

infractions contrary to regulations on environmental conservation, nature use and ecological 

safety. 

Compensation of any damage upon nature can be subject to civil action, which might arise 

resulted from violation of regulations on environmental conservation, nature use and 

ecological safety. Damage incurred fishes, water animals and invertebrates is fixed according 

to “Rules of types, grades and imposing of payments for use of fish resources and penalties 

for illegal fishing” approved by the Decision №146 dated September 16, 1999 of the Cabinet 

of Ministers of Azerbaijan Republic. 

Damage incurred wildlife is fixed according to “Rules of types, grades and imposing of 

payments for use of wildlife and penalties for poaching” approved by the Decision#176 dated 

November 6, 2004 of the Cabinet of Ministers of Azerbaijan Republic. 

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Accordingly approved norms are applied in calculation of damage incurred other spheres. 

Application of fees for natural resources and of fine payments for pollutant emissions and 

discharges is carried out by “Rules on fees for natural resources and of fine payments for 

repugnant substances emitted to the environment and use of these payments” approved by the 

Cabinet of Ministers of Azerbaijan Republic. 

Proper penalties on ecological crimes were stipulated in 15 clauses (247-261) of Crime Code 

of Azerbaijan Republic. 

Pursuant to Decision №134 July 12, 2005 of the Cabinet of Azerbaijan Republic, “Rule of 

creation and use of special funds and aids of proper bodies established for management and 

conservation of Protected Areas” were approved. Aids of the fund are spent in maintenance 

and development of Protected areas. The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and 

proper authorities carry out control over efficient use of aids of the fund. Aids of the fund to 

the extent of 10% can be assign to social security and material incentive fund. 

2.1.7. International agreements and conventions 

Azerbaijan is a member of most international agreements and conventions relating to 

biodiversity (Table 6.1). 

Table 6.1 International environmental conventions ratified by Azerbaijan 

International convention Year ratified 

UNESCO Convention on Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage 1994 

UN Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous 

Wastes and their Disposal (Basel Convention) 

2001 

UNESCO Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as 

Waterfowl Habitat’ (Ramsar Convention) 

2000 

UN Framework Convention on Climate Change 1995 

Protocol on UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (Kyoto Protocol) 2000 

UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) 2000 

UNECE Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decisionmaking 

and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters (Aarhus Convention) 

1999 

UNECE Convention on Environment Impact Assessment in the Trans-boundary 

Context (Espoo Convention) 

1999 

UNECE Convention on Long-range Trans-boundary Air Pollution 2002 

Convention on Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern 

Convention) 

1999 

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and 

Flora (CITES), and Agreement on Protection of Sturgeons 

1998 

UN Convention to Combat Desertification (CCD) 1998 

UNECE Convention on the Protection and Use of Trans-boundary Watercourses 

and International Lakes (Helsinki Convention) 

2000 

FAO Convention on Plant Protection 2000 

UN Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer (Vienna Convention) 1996 

Agreement on Mutual Cooperation of Commonwealth of Independent States in 

the area of Hydrometeorology 

1998 

Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer ( Montreal) 2000 

European Agreement about Transportation of Dangerous Loads on International 

Routes 

2000 

20. Agreement between the Republic of Azerbaijan and Russian Federation on the 

“Sttaus, utilize principles and conditions of Gabala sttaion (RLS “Daryal”)” 

2002 

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2.2. Existing programmes for biodiversity conservation 

2.2.1. Biodiversity inventory, monitoring and research 

A number of organizations render assistance in evaluation and monitoring of the environment 

and biodiversity. There established National Monitoring Service attached to the Ministry of 

Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan Republic since 2001 and its activity was 

organized in compliance with high standards for the purpose of arrangement of monitoring 

observations on main components of the environment, water facilities, soil and atmosphere 

space and, assessment, forecasting, regulation and management of anthropogenous impacts 

upon its features. Furthermore, study on biological diversity is carried out by Department of 

Biological Diversity Protection and Specially Protected Nature Areas Development of the 

Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and the Caspian Integrated Ecological Monitoring 

Office within the framework of proper authorities. 

However, further investment is needed to continue to support environmental monitoring 

activities. A range of scientific institutions (research institutes and universities) collect data 

directly relevant to biodiversity and its conservation, including inventories of fauna and flora, 

description of habitats, assessment of genetic diversity, evaluation of limits for sustainable 

use, and testing of appropriate methods for ecosystem restoration. 

In addition, the private sector also contributes to monitoring and research on biodiversity. For 

example, British Petroleum (BP) monitors biodiversity both on- and off-shore (including 

populations of fish, birds and mammals), and were also involved in biodiversity related 

activities such as the Trans-boundary Diagnostic Analysis, a workshop on Mnemiopsis, an 

investigation into the causes of mortality in Caspian seals and environmental data sharing. 

2.2.2 Environmental educational programmes and teaching 

Although there are a great number of specialists in Azerbaijan, until recently environmental 

educational and training in the country was rather unsystematic. Over the last ten years the 

situation has improved, and courses about environmental issues have been included in school 

curricula, and some schools even offer advanced courses in ecology. However, the standard of 

teaching relating to ecology and the environment is constrained by lack of resources, such as 

specialist books and other materials. In addition, the improvement of training in this area goes 

hand in hand in broader education reforms, which allow teachers greater freedom in what and 

how they teach. The further improvement of efforts in environmental education will be 

supported by legislation, as a result of a Presidential Decree on public ecological education, 

which was passed at the start of 2003. Under this decree a special Commission was 

established to prepare a five-year action plan to be delivered by the Ministry of Education. 

Preparation and publication on textbooks, education materials and visual aids were put in 

order for “Ecology” subject taught in high and secondary schools. 

This will also address access to environmental education materials, as well as the 

establishment of school reserves, ecological parks, and resource centres around wildlife 

reserves. 

The Ministry of Education has a State Ecological Training and Education Centre, which runs 

a series of environmental education centres in different regions, for children and young 

people. This centre draws experts from Institutes of the Azerbaijan National Academy of 

Sciences, state and non-governmental organizations, and provides courses with the aim of 

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developing environmental responsibility among the next generation. In addition, other 

ecological teaching programmes and ecological clubs have been developed for schools. 

As well as the above activities, a number of non-governmental organizations, and the private 

sector (notably oil companies) have run biodiversity awareness projects focusing specifically 

on environmental education of children. Other resources exist for environmental education, 

such as a number of zoological museums and collections (including the Baku City Zoological 

Park). 

2.2.3. Public Awareness 

Organization of population enlightenment and effective propaganda work is one of the 

necessary elements in arrangement of PAs conservation and biological diversity protection. 

Beside Department of Propaganda established in the composition of the Ministry of Ecology 

and Natural Resources, sectors of Propaganda are functioning within the related Regional 

Area Departments. At the same time, job descriptions of employees working for tourism and 

science field of PAs include enlightenment of population and propaganda/agitation works. 

There is a special section on PAs in webpage (www.eco.gov.az) of the Ministry of Ecology 

and Natural Resources. 

Flexible collaboration has been created with Mass Media in view of delivery of information 

related to coverage of changes and innovations in PAs and protection of biological diversity. 

The population can regularly obtain any information and data about PAs through the Ministry 

of Ecology and Natural Resources and “Hot Line” service working for in the structure of 

proper Department. 

Organization of activity for different categories and subcohorts of the population is 

particularly effective in enlightenment and propaganda works. In this standpoint, a particular 

attention is paid to actions on enlightenment of pupils and youth especially upon PAs in the 

past three years. Time and again knowledge competitions and contests are arranged among 

children at subject and theme of biological diversity protection in National Parks every year. 

Entry of pupils to national parks has been allowed for under the legislation without any 

charge and payment in order to raise interest of them toward nature. 

There conducted competitions on painting at the subject of “The nature in outlook of 

children” by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources every year. There published and 

distributed ten thousands of booklets and posters about PAs among the population, especially 

local communities. Literary programmes and advertising spots at the subject of nature 

conservation, including biological diversity protection were repeatedly shown in telecasts as 

being mass media in public awareness. 

2.2.4 Planning and intervention for conservation and restoration 

The need to ensure environmental sustainability is recognized as being as important as peace, 

political stability, social-economic development and democracy at a global, regional and 

national level. Thus environmental policies are developed to ensure ecological security and 

environmental protection and rehabilitation. Challenges such as loss of the ozone layer, 

climate change, desertification, biodiversity loss and environmental pollution must all be 

addressed by national policy development. 

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The legislative base for environmental protection has been established in Azerbaijan. In 

response to this activities are already underway to improve environmental conditions, such as 

redevelopment of water ways and drainage systems, tree planting to provide parks and to 

prevent erosion (including areas along the Caspian coast), and a number of nature reserves 

and protected zones were created for flora and fauna. 

2.2.5. International projects 

A number of projects have been prepared under the international financial support related to 

biodiversity issues in Azerbaijan Republic: 

• Strategy on Biodiversity of the Caspian Sea and Ecological Programme of the 

Caspian Sea (CEP). Several donor organizations render assistance in this Programme 

(GEF, UNDP, UNEP, The World Bank and TACIS) and purpose of the Programme 

aims at solution of interboundary ecological problems such as pollution and loss of 

biodiversity through coordinated actions. “Strategy on Biodiversity of the Caspian Sea 

and Action Plan” was drafted in the presence of five Caspian states in 2001 under 

leadership of the CEP and and it is implemented regularly. 

• Project on Rehabilitation and Accomplishment of Irrigation and Drainage 

Infrastructure. The World Bank has supported 5-year programme oriented towards 

improvement of water supply and drainage works in order to enhance agricultural 

products. A number of irrigation systems were rehabilitated according to this Project 

until 2006. 

• Project on Construction of Sturgeon Plant. This Project was completed within the 

framework of urgent environmental investment project of the World Bank in 2003. 

Presently, modern plant is functioning at its full capacity which constructed for the 

purpose of breeding alevin sturgeons in order to let them into Kura river and the 

Caspian sea. 

• Project on Preservation of Leopards in Caucasus Ecoregion. This project of World 

Wildlife Fund (WWF) was established to determine status of Caucasus leopard 

species in the region and to ensure preservation of them. The Project aims at 

strengthening of current and planned protected areas, intensification of ecological 

education and promotion of actions against poaching. “National Action Plan on 

conservation of leopards” was drafted by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural 

Resources in 2009. 

• Ecoregional Planning for Caucasus. WWF and Critical Ecosystems Partnership 

Fund (CEPF) lead a process on strategy building for conservation and sustainable use 

of biological resources in Caucasus. German Development Corporation (KfW), 

Conservation International and other international NGOs took a great part in 

determination of capital outlay priorities upon biodiversity of region together with 

representatives of every Caucasus states. As a result, investment strategy document of 

the CEP was prepared and a long-term programme focusing on range of landscape 

corridors along Caucasus region. Actions, such as development of current protected 

areas and establishment of new ones, species conservation arrangements and 

awareness raising among decision-makers are ongoing in the course of the project 

commenced since August of 2003. 

• Establishment of Samur-Yalama National Park. According to “Programme on 

Ecoregional Nature Conservation for South Caucasus” relevant works are carried out 

under the financial support (2 500 000 Euro) of German Financial Cooperation (KFW) 

as per Contract dated December 5, 2005. Bid Commission was established and 

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prequalification procedure was conducted according to Order dated February 2, 2009 

of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources for the purpose of selection of 

experienced and highly qualified consulting companies and specialists in view of the 

project implementation. 

• Establishment of Zagatala Biosphere Reserve. According to item 1 of Clause 1 of 

Final Protocol of Intergovernmental negotiations conducted between Germany Federal 

Republic and Azerbaijan Republic, it is planned to allocated fund to the extent of 

4000000 Euro for the project “Ecoregional programme on nature conservation in 

South Caucasus, III phase, Zagatala biosphere reserve”. In this regard, preevaluation 

works were carried out and completed in the area and signing of Memorandum of 

Understanding is intended for commencement of the project. 

2.3. Summary of existing measures, capacity and 

experience for biodiversity management 

Environmental protection is strongly engrained in State policy, and ongoing economic 

reforms, socio-economic development and infrastructure rehabilitation can be managed so as 

to ensure that development is sustainable and does not compromise ecological protection, in 

line with international standards. Through the development of institutions responsible for 

biodiversity conservation (such as the State Commission of Genetic Resources on 

Biodiversity and the Ministry for Ecology and Natural Resources) the government has already 

taken important steps to ensure effective environmental protection. In particular, the Ministry 

for Ecology and Natural Resources is tasked to implement State policy on the study, use, 

protection and restoration of natural resources, on the provision of ecological security, and on 

ensuring the conservation of biodiversity. 

Other recent achievements within the Republic of Azerbaijan include the approval of a 

National Environment Programme (dealing with issues of both sustainable development and 

forest rehabilitation), and the expansion of the protected areas system in 2003, including the 

creation of the Ordubad National Park. 

The Republic of Azerbaijan also has a number of successful international projects relating to 

protection of biological resources and protected areas, in co-operation with UNDP, UNEP, 

World Bank, WWF, and the European Environmental Fund. In addition, a number of local 

NGOs operate in the field of biodiversity protection. 

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Chapter 3 

Sectoral and cross-sectoral integration or 

mainstreaming of biodiversity 

considerations 

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3.1. Use and values of biodiversity 



Biodiversity has significance to mankind in a range of ways, which may be economic or 

intrinsic. Biodiversity in Azerbaijan is used directly in a large number of ways, and in 

addition a range of cultural and aesthetic values are placed on species and ecosystems in the 

country. 

3.1.1. Agrobiodiversity 

In general, the Caucasus region is recognized as an important centre of origin for 

agrobiodiversity. Within this context Azerbaijan supports a number of wild relatives and 

varieties important for agriculture. The cereals and livestock varieties are particularly 

significant. 

3.1.1.1. Crops under cultivation 

Cereals 

Of 454 species of gramineous plants (Poaceae) in Azerbaijan, 25 are cultivated. Azerbaijan 

is one of the centres of origin for cereal crops, and shows 

Picture 

particular variety in the forms of wheat described. Some 

species of wheat are particularly important for agriculture, 

including so-called ‘tough wheat’ (Triticum durum) of 

which 43 varieties are described from Azerbaijan, and ‘soft 

wheat’ (T. aestivum), which is represented by at least 87 

varieties, including a range of hybrid types. Although a 

range of native varieties of wheat have been developed over 

time, more recently a number of forms have been 

introduced associated with more intensive agricultural systems. 

Other forms of cereals found in Azerbaijan include barley (Hordeum spp.), rye (Secale spp.), 

triticale (Triticale spp.), maize (Zea spp.) and rice (Oruza spp.). Ten species of barley have 

been recorded from Azerbaijan, of which two are cultivated (of which 500 genetic varieties, 

including a number of native forms, have been described) while five species of rye occur, 

although only one of these (Secale cereale) is cultivated. Only one species of maize is widely 

grown in Azerbaijan (Zea mays), and 90 distinct genetic varieties are registered. Similarly 

although only one species of rice is grown in Azerbaijan (Oryza sativa), over 80 local 

varieties have been registered, including a number of traditional cultivars. In the case of 

triticale (a hybrid of wheat and rye) 326 varieties have been described. 

A wide range of other crops are grown in Azerbaijan, including vegetables, potatoes, vines, 

fruit, tobacco, tea and cotton. 

Horticulture 

A range of wild plants are widely cultivated in gardens, with domesticated varieties of fruits 

and berries having been developed from wild relatives, including apples, pears, walnuts, 

hazelnuts, blackberries, medlar and others. Over 6000 fruit and berry samples of 150 species 

are cultivated, many in a range of local forms including notably apricots (Armeniaca 

vulgaris), cherries (Serasus spp.), pomegranates (Punica granatum) and grapes (Vitis 

vinifera). 

Wheat, barley and sweetcorn are currently the main crops grown in the Nakhichevan 

Autonomous Republic, with wheat being the most extensive crop (both ‘tough’ (durum 

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wheat) and ‘soft’ forms are grown). Although millet and rye were once important crops, they 

are no longer commercially grown. The extent of land planted with grain increases each year, 

and ongoing efforts are made to increase productivity. In 2009, 103625 tonnes of grain was 

produced in the territory, representing over 12 varieties of wheat and three types of barley. 

A range of plants have been grown in gardens in Nakhichevan since ancient times, and fruit 

from the area (particularly from the Ordubad region) is considered to be of high quality. 

Currently, nearly 2270 ha of land in Nakhichevan is cultivated in gardens, to grow grapes, a 

wide range of apricot varieties, peaches, plums, apples, mirabelle, cherries, quince, pear, 

almond, mulberry, lemon, walnuts, pomegranates, blackberries, strawberries, and dates. In 

2009, around 37782 tonnes of fruit were produced. It is suggested that the Ordubad region 

may be suitable for increased productivity of certain fruits (particularly lemons) for export to 

world markets. Natural orchards of wild pomegranates grow around Kilit village in Ordubad. 

3.1.1.2. Wild ancestors of crops 

Cereals 

Azerbaijan is significant for being a centre of origin for a number of crops, particularly 

cereals. Wild relatives of wheat, including single-grain wild wheat (Triticum boeoticum) and 

Ararat wheat (T. araraticum), are found in the lowlands and foothills, and to some extent in 

more mountainous areas. In addition, six wild barley species are common in Azerbaijan 27 and 

rye is represented in four wild forms 28 

Other crops 

Unfortunately, although Azerbaijan originally possessed a diversity of wild relatives of corn, 

beans, vegetables, fruits, berries and grapes, along with a range of traditional local varieties, 

most of these have since been lost due to poor protection and discontinued selection of these 

forms. Currently, a number of scientific research institutes within the Ministry of Agriculture, 

along with the Genetic Resources Institute of National Academy of Sciences, are undertaking 

collection, study and maintenance of examples of agricultural crops and their wild ancestors, 

to provide the basis for future selective breeding. Research is being carried out on arable 

crops (cereals, corn, beans and tobacco), vegetables, berries, grapes, fodder species and 

cotton. Since 1996 significant efforts have been made to increase the collection of genetic 

material relating to important crops, under the Republican Crop Genetic Resources Program 

(see Table 4.1). 

Some wild ancestors of wheat (Triticum monococcum, T. araratum, and T. urartu occur in 

Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, mainly in the area of Garagush Mountain (2600 m). 

Table 4.1 Number of species/forms and number of samples of different crop types 

collected to date under the Republican Crop Genetic Resources Program 

Crop Number of species/forms Number of samples 

Corn 18 15,900 

Grain 20 3,500 

Vegetables 64 643 

Fodder 50 1,500 

Cotton 2 1,000 

27 Wild barley (Hordeum spontaneum), blue barley (H. glaucum), bulbed barley (H. bulbosum), violet 

barley (H. violaceum), and rye barley (H. secalinum) 

28 Weed-field rye (Secale segetable), Transcaucasian rye (S. vavilovi), Anatoly rye (S. anatolicum), and 

wild rye (S. silvestre) 

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Tobacco 2 90 

Fruit, berry and grape 116 7000 

3.1.1.3. Livestock diversity 

Cattle 

Three species of long-horned cattle are found in Azerbaijan - neat, buffalo and zebu. A range 

of long-horned cow breeds are found in the country, including brown Caucasus (a local 

breed), black-light, Simmental, Kostroma, Svis, brown Lithuania, Lebedin, red desert, red 

Eston, Holstin Friz, Aberdeen Angus, Limousine and Hallovey. Buffalo numbers in 

Azerbaijan are significant (over 300,000) with most being privately owned, and these are an 

important source of milk and meat. 

Sheep 

Sheep-breeding has been widely developed in Azerbaijan, with a range of breeds specialised 

for fine fleeces, rough fleeces and meat/milk. Traditional forms include Azerbaijan mountain 

merinos, Bozakh, “Shirvan”, “Garabakh”, Mazex, Balbas, Jaro, and Herik, while a number of 

other breeds (Sovet merinos, Askaniya, Prekos) have been introduced into the country. 

Goats 

Goats have been selectively bred in Azerbaijan since ancient times. Since 1936 these native 

breeds have been supplemented by Angora goats from Turkey (concentrated in the Ganja- 

Gazakh and Upper Karabakh regions). 

Pigs 

Four breeds of pigs are regularly kept in private farms in Azerbaijan - big white pig, 

Ukrainian white desert pig, white Lithuanian pig and big black pig. 

Horses 

Azerbaijan is one of the countries where the horse was first domesticated and bred in ancient 

times. A number of famous horse breeds originated in Azerbaijan – including the “Karabakh” 

and “Dilbaz” breeds, and the less well-known “Guba” and “Shirvan” forms. Three key 

genetic forms of horse are recognised in the country: (i) Lower Caucasus type which 

originated in the foothills region of little Caucasus; (ii) Large Caucasus type, which are 

smaller forms originating from the higher mountain areas; and (iii) plain type – a larger 

workhorse from the Kura-Araz plateau. In addition a range of foreign horse breeds have been 

imported over the last 50 years (including English, Arab, Terek, Turkman, Budyonni, and 

Traken races). 

Poultry 

A number of common domesticated chickens (white rus, Leggorn Red Aylend Nyu-hempshir 

and Broyler-6) are bred for meat and eggs, alongside more traditional local hen breeds. Local 

Indian hen breeds are found in Guba-Khachmaz, Upper Karabakh, Shirvan, Ganja-Gazakh 

regions. Domesticated ducks (Pekin) were introduced in 1956, while a range of different 

local goose breeds have been developed in the Republic. These forms are adapted to local 

climatic conditions and do not require supplementary feeding as long as pasture is available. 

3.1.1.4. Wild relatives of domesticated livestock 

Goats 

Two species of wild goat are found in Azerbaijan. Notably, the bezoar or cliff goat (Capra 

aegagrus) is a species dating from prehistoric times, and is smaller than other wild goats, with 

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a body length of 140-160 cm and height of less than 85 cm. The species is also distinguished 

from other goat species by the shape of its horns and its colouration (reddish-brown). Bezoar 

goats are distributed in the Lesser Caucasus (including the mountain chains of Shahdag and 

Murovdag), in the Upper Garabag, in Lachin and Kalbajar rayons, and in Nakhichevan are 

common in the mountain chains of Zangezur and Nasirvaz. 

Sheep 

The Asian mouflon (Ovis orientalis) occurs in Azerbaijan. It is a small species (standing up 

to 83 cm high, with a body length of less than 115 cm), with a short tail and curved horns. 

The species is found in the southern Caucasus (Alinja, Ilandag, Nasirvaz, Gapijig, Nehramdag 

and surrounding chains). 

Pigs 

Wild boar (Sus scrofa) is common throughout the Caucasus where a sub-species has been 

described. Wild boar are found in all forests and reed thickets in Azerbaijan and are the most 

common wild hoofed mammals in the Republic, and are a focus for hunting. 

A range of local domesticated breeds of buffalo, goat, and sheep are found in the Autonomous 

Republic of Nakhichevan, along with wild ancestors of livestock such as mouflon and bezoar 

goat and wild boar live in the territory. 

3.1.2. Wild species of economic importance 

3.1.2.1. Use of wild plants 

Food plants 

A wide range of Azerbaijan’s flora is used as a source of food. Key food species and their 

uses are listed in Table 4.2 below. 

In addition, a number of other wild plants produce fruits and vegetables used in Azerbaijan, 

including cherries, plums, cornel tree, hawthorn, forest strawberry (Fagaria vesca), Russian 

cherry-plum (Grossularia reclinata), sea-buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), apple, medlar, 

cherry-plum, blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), raspberry (Rubus caesius), dog-rose (Rosa spp.), 

blackberry (different varieties of Rubus), garlic (Allium sativum), onion (Allium cepa), and 

leeks (A. porrum). 

Table 4.2 Key food species and their uses 

Common name Botanical name Use 

Chestnut Castanea sativa The nut is eaten roasted or raw; chestnut flour 

is made from the nut, and is combined with 

wheat flour to bake bread 

Hazel-nut Corylus avellana Hazel nuts are eaten roasted or raw, and are 

widely used in bakery and confectionery 

products 

Beech Fagus orientalis Fruits are eaten instead of sunflower seeds, 

and valuable oil is also acquired from its fruit 

Linden Tilia caucasica Flowers and leaves are used for teas and 

tisanes, and linden flowers are a source of 

nectar for honey production 

Shepherd's purse Capsella bursa pastoris Young leaves are used in making soup and 

borsch 

Millet Echinochloa oryzoides Thick roots are pickled and eaten fresh 

Ferula Prongos ferulaceae Cooked or pickled 

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Cow-parsnip Heracleum trachyloma Leaves and stem are eaten. 

Sorrel Rumex spp. Leaves and stem are used 

Caper Capparis herlacea Buds are pickled 

Sugar cane Sorghum saccharatum Used to produce syrup and doshab (boiled 

down fruit juice) 

Cockspur Echinochloa crusgalli Nutritional uses (America) 

American Millet Milium effusum Seeds are used in baking bread 

Chervil Chaerophyllum aureum Seeds are used as fodder for domestic animals 

and poultry 

Timber 

Around 400 species of trees and bushes are recorded in Azerbaijan (representing nearly 10% 

of the country’s flora) and approximately 11% of the land area is forested. Timber provides a 

source of materials for construction and furniture making. Key timber species include 

hornbeam (Caprinus spp.), Georgian oak (Quercus iberica) and beech (Fagus spp.). Since 

2005 it was prohibited by the MENR to use forest materials as a firewood. 

Medicinal plants 

Around 800 plant species of medicinal value have been recorded in Azerbaijan, including 150 

species used in pharmacology. Key medicinal plants include elecampagne (Inula helenium), 

origanum (Origanum vulgare), coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara), valerian (Valeriana officinalis), 

and Helychrisum arenarium, with 33 dried products obtained from these plants, which are 

mainly traded by “Azerfarm Ltd”. In addition a range of oil-based products are developed 

through cold pressing of various plants (including various nuts and fruits), and a traditional 

medicine called doshab (a concentrated syrup, usually of mulberry) is produced from a range 

of wild plants, including mulberries, medlar and rosehips. Currently there is a growing 

recognition of the importance of extending the cultivation of medicinal plants, and moves 

towards certification is necessary to broaden the access to European markets. 

Plants in foreign trade 

A number of plants from Azerbaijan have attracted foreign businessmen, and some valuable 

plants are exported abroad, including cultivated liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), linden (Tilia 

cordata), cane (Phragmites australis), reed (Arundo donax) and nettle (Urtica dioica). 

Export of plants to foreign countries is regulated under relevant permits (licences) issued by 

proper authorities. 

The population of the Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic use wild plants for medicinal, 

food, wood, dyes and other purposes. Many of the species collected are rare, endemic or 

endangered. A great number of plants (up to 750 species) are used in traditional remedies and 

medicines, and resources of Nakhichevan can be seen as a ‘natural pharmacy’. The level of 

collection of some natural products is relatively extensive. 29 A few of these are currently 

commercially cultivated (by the “Scientific-Production Co-operative for Medical Plants”, and 

further expansion of cultivation may be an option in future. 

29 Figures for 1988 indicate production as follows: rose hips (83 tonnes), hawthorn (82 tonnes), wild 

apples and pears (157 tonnes) and thyme (56 tonnes). 

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Some plants are recognized as important sources of pollen and nectar for honey 30 , and others 

provide flavourings for natural beverages and teas 31 . A number of plants are used as food, 

either raw, cooked or preserved 32 . A wide range of plants are recognized as important sources 

for aromatic and essential oils 33 , camphor 34 and other extracts 35 , and Carpodium platycarpum 

is recognized as a plant of potential medical and economic importance, restricted to 

Nakhichevan. Commercial production of essential oils from these plants may be possible in 

Nakhichevan. Other species of note include liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), and decorative 

plants such as tulips and Caucasian oak. 

3.1.2.2. Use of wild animals 

Hunting 

Species of some mammals (hare, fox, jackal, yenot, raccoon, Dagestan urus/aurochs, wild 

boar) and birds (ducks, geese, coot, pigeons, quail, pheasant and etc.) are traditionally used in 

hunting activity. There raised a keen interest of foreign tourists/hunters towards hunting of 

some species (Dagestan urus/aurochs, wild boar) of Azerbaijan fauna in the last years. Proper 

permits (licences) are issued by local authorities of Ministry of Ecology and Natural 

Resources for hunting activity in order to regulate such hunting. A ban has been imposed 

upon baiting of brown bear since 2004, upon bird hunting since 2005 concerning avian flu. 

Fishing 

Fishing occurs in freshwater internal water systems (Mingachevir reservoir, the Kura and 

Araz rivers), as well as in the Caspian Sea, utilising the many valuable kinds of fish found in 

Picture 

Azerbaijan. Most economically valuable are the 

sturgeon (Acipenseridae), which is a high fatcontent 

fish and is the source of caviar. Four 

species of the genus Acipenser are considered to 

have a particularly fine taste: ship sturgeon 

(Acipenser nudiventris), sterlet (A. ruthenus), 

Russian sturgeon (A. guldenstadti), and Kura 

sturgeon (Acipencer stellatus cyrensis). There are 

several hatchery programmes that release juvenile 

fish to support the existing populiatons. Spawn 

and caviar of species of this family are sold in domestic and foreign market on expensive 

price. 

In addition, other species that are fished commercially include a number of Clupeiformes 

(herring). Sprats (Clupeonella spp.) are a source of bone meal for use in agriculture (for both 

poultry and livestock). The local population also uses a number of other species of the family 

Cypriniformes (carp) which are considered to be good to eat, including: Asp (Aspius a. 

30 For example Chamaenerium angustifolium, Melilotus officinalis, Lamium album, Onobrychis transcaucasica 

and Salvia limbata 

31 For example, Berberis vulgaris, Padus mahaleb, Jornus mas, Malus orientalis, Orchis mascula, Origanum 

vulgare, Prinus divaricata, Pyrus salicifolia, Ribes bibersteini, and Rubus iberica 

32 For example, Rhehum ribes, Dorema glabra, Prongos ferulaceae, Chaerophillum auranta, Eremurus 

spektabilis, Falcaria sioides, Heracleum trachiloma, and Carum caucasicum 

33 For example, Caropodium platycarpum, Nepeta cataria, Thymus transaucasica 

34 Extracted from Siberian white pine (in Soviet times) 

35 For example Betula pendula, Conium maculatum, Valeriana sisymbriifolia, V.tiliifolia, Inula helenium, Cris 

sulphure, Chenopodium botrys, Zizifora spp., Mentha longifolia, and Tanacetum millifolium 

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taeniatus), Balic vimba (Vimba v. persa), Black Sea roach (Rutilus frisii kutum), common 

carp (Cyprinus c. carpio), North Caspian roach (Rutilus rutilus), Caspian bream (Abramis 

brama orientalis), Kura bleak (Chalcalburnus chalcoides guldenstadt) and Danubian bleak 

(Ch. chalcoides longissimus). 

Medical use 

Leeches (Hirudinea medicinalis) are used by the general public for the treatment of different 

diseases and hirudin 36 from leeches is considered to be a precious medical remedy. In 

addition, until the mid 1990’s a special institution existed to collect venom from the Levetine 

viper (Macrovipera lebetine) populations. 

There is a long history of the use of wild animals in Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, 

including hunting of birds (such geese, ducks, bustards, quail, and partridge). Among the 

birds hunted in Nakhichevan are a number of locally endemic sub-species of non-migratory 

birds, which may be at particular risk from over-exploitation combined with loss of habitats 

and fires 37 . In addition, other species caught by the general population include mountain 

goats, mouflon, fox, wolf, jackal, and vipers (including Radde’s viper). 

A wide range of fish is caught within Nakhichevan’s rivers and lakes, particularly from the 

Araz River and reservoir. There is also fishing on the Iranian bank of the Araz. Fish 

populations have declined as a result of unsustainable offtake (particularly during the 

sensitive spawning period), use of illegal fishing devices, and overfishing from the Iranian 

side of the Araz reservoir) and as a result of pollution, changes in water composition and 

reduced invertebrate populations in the Araz River. 

3.1.2.3. Evaluation of sustainability of use of wild species 

The fauna and flora of different areas of Azerbaijan face different anthropogenic threats, 

resulting in inconsistent patterns of distribution of key biological resources. For example, the 

biological resources of the Caspian Sea are threatened as a result of its isolation from other 

oceans, and the intensity of pressure on its resources. In addition, the steppe and semi-deserts 

of the Kura-Araz and Absheron plains are threatened, as are the forest resources of the 

Greater and Lesser Caucasus Mountains. The regions with greater resilience to use of 

resources include the wetter areas in the subtropical regions (such as Astara and Lankaran), 

where the dry subtropical forests recover well and can be sustainably managed. 

At the same time, expansion of protected areas network enables rapid and effective 

rehabilitation of fauna resources of areas covered their scope (10.1% part of the country is 

comprised by protected areas). 

3.1.3. Use of biodiversity for biotechnology and genetic collections 

Biodiversity is used for scientific and industrial purposes through biotechnology. Genetic 

material is sourced from wild and cultivated plant species and is maintained in vitro for both 

conservation and scientific goals. Forms of tomato, tobacco, wheat and roses have been 

developed under laboratory conditions. In industry, genetic material from wild and cultivated 

plants is used to develop hybrids with specific characteristics. 

36 From the saliva glands of the leech 

37 Quail (Coturnix coturnix coturnix), rock partridge (Alectoris graeca jaujisijus), grey partridge (Perdix 

perdix janesjens), Caspian snowcock (Tetraogallus caucasicus taurijus). 

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3.1.4. Indirect uses of biodiversity 



Azerbaijan provides suitable conditions for the development of ecotourism, particularly for 

holidays based on bird-watching. Interesting bird populations can be observed at all times of 

year (for wintering, migration and breeding), and large colonies of herons, cormorants, gulls 

and tern can be seen in reed beds and islands. In winter extensive flocks of little bustards, 

eagles, and griffon vultures are seen in the lowlands, and large populations of water birds 

gather are concentrated along the Caspian coast and in inland water systems. 

Creation of initial National Parks in the country since 2003 has played a legal framework role 

for development and rational organization of in-place ecotourism and aesthetic pleasure of 

tourists in its boons without damage to the environment and allowed to growth of ecotourism 

activity. 

3.1.5. Cultural or traditional values of biodiversity 

3.1.5.1. Wildlife and national cuisine 

In Azerbaijan, the national cuisine reflects the traditional methods of food preparation, but 

incorporates the availability of foods and requirements of a modern diet. A range of 

agrobiodiversity and wild species are traditionally used within the national diet. Most dishes 

are prepared from veal, mutton and poultry. The region is also rich in fish - the main species 

consumed are sturgeon caught in the lake, rivers, and the sea. Meals are often prepared with a 

variety of ingredients to add taste. Ingredients include lemon, olives, vinegar, pomegranate 

syrup, plums, grapes, cherries, apricots, fruit paste, and sumakh spice. 

Meals are accompanied by rice, bread, and a variety of vegetables, predominantly aubergine, 

tomato, sweet peppers, cabbage, spinach, sorrel, beetroot, turnip, and onion. Herbs such as 

saffron, caraway, anise, laurel leaf, coriander, mint, dill, parsley, celery, tarragon, basil and 

thyme are also commonly served with, and accompany meals. These ingredients are also 

combined into salads. Other popular foods include caviar, omelette with vegetables or 

walnuts, fried beans and walnut, and other snacks. Mixes of garlic, aubergine, and hot 

pepper, are preserved with salt or vinegar and are served with meat courses. 

Meals usually start with strong black tea, to aid digestion, and for social reasons. Tea is often 

served with fruit preserves made from quince, watermelon, cherry, peach, plum, walnut and 

mulberry. The tea is sometimes flavoured with herbs and spices, such as thyme, cloves and 

cardamom to add flavour. In addition, the natural waters of Azerbaijan are rich in minerals 

and are believed to promote good health. 

3.1.5.2. Arts, folklore, and music 

Picture 

Located between the Middle East, Europe and Asia, 

on the ancient ‘Silk Route’, Azerbaijan has 

historically played an important part in the world 

economy and exchange of culture. This history is 

reflected in the creative culture existing today through 

highly skilled musicians, astrologists, sculptures and 

craftsmen. Azerbaijan has a great artistic history, with 

craft methods passed down through families. Many 

types of folklore are depicted through art, music, 

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dance, and in the history of architecture, and much of this folklore is related to the natural 

resources of the region and reflect the close relationship between culture and natural history. 

The culture is globally renowned for its cultural and spiritual achievements. Ancient customs 

and traditions remain significant in the spiritual lives of modern Azeris. Families have played 

a central role in maintaining these traditions through the generations. Religious events are 

celebrated as national holidays, such as ‘Gurban Bayrami’ (the day of the sacrificial slaughter 

of an animal). The 21st of March (the equinox) is ‘Novruz Bayramy’, a celebration of the 

coming spring. Rural communities also celebrate the harvest on ‘Harvest holiday’. For all 

these celebrations Azeris prepare food as gifts for friends and relatives. 

National crafts reflect the rich biological resources of the country. The main crafts are 

carpets, silks, jewellery, and wood, stone and metal carvings. The internationally renowned 

carpet makers are found in Guba, Shamakhi, Ganja, Gazakh, Garabach, and the villages 

around Baku. Carpets traditionally are made using plant dyes and wool. 

Azeri literature depicts the many ancient traditions of the country, and many great authors 

(such as Khagani, Nizami, Fizuli, Nazimi, Vagif, Sabir, Jalil Mammadguluzadeh, and 

Husseyn Javid) reveal the close relationship between the culture of the region and its 

biodiversity. 

3.1.5.3. Spiritual values of biodiversity 

One of the unique aspects of Azeri culture is the variety of religions that are currently and 

historically practiced (see Chapter 2). Many religions teach the importance of biodiversity. In 

particular, islamic religion worhipped by Azerbaijan nation emphasizes advocating of nature 

care and affection in sacred and holy Koran (even some of suras are titled with names of 

animals - bee, cow and etc.). 

3.1.5.4. Recreation and biodiversity 

Due to the need to house more than one million refugees in Azerbaijan, there is great pressure 

on recreation sites. The areas traditionally used for recreation and spas are now used for 

sheltering these people. Of the 12,000 tourist sites, 10,000 are occupied by refugees - despite 

the fact that these sites are unsuitable as permanent settlements. 

The main areas used for tourism and spa use are within the Absheron, Nabran, Kura, and 

Lenkoran coastal resorts, and tourists visit such resorts over five months of the year. Changes 

in the level of the Caspian Sea have caused a great number of recreational centres on the coast 

to be flooded. Other areas in the forested mountain regions of Guba, Shemakha-Ismailli, 

Belokan-Gabala, Kelbajar, Karabakj, Kedabek, Nakhichevan and Ganja-Naftalan are visited 

because of the presence of thermal springs and medicinal mud volcanoes. Over 300 

recreational sites have been identified in these regions, within a total area of 35,000 ha (much 

of which is forested). 

Establishment of initial National Parks in Azerbaijan in 2003 - i.e. Ordubad National Parks 

named after H.Aliyev, Shirvan and Aghgol National Parks, then organization of Hirkan and 

Altiaghaj National Parks in 2004, Absheron National Park in 2005, Shahdagh National Park 

in 2006, Goygol National Park in 2008 as continuance of regular actions carried out on this 

purpose, created a favorable condition for arrangement of ecotourism activity in natural areas 

where rich historical monuments, unique landscape, geological and climate features and 

various biodiversity exist. 

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3.2. Key economic sectors affecting biodiversity 

3.2.1. Agriculture 

One of general indices of national reporting system is accompanied by growth rate of Gross 

Domestic Product (GDP) to be key indicator by characterizing outcomes of performance of 

economic units-residents in both material production and services and, being assessed with 

volume of additional value of these units on output and services for final consumption and, 

featuring situation in countrywide economic and social spheres. Share of agriculture in the 

GDP totalled to 14.0% in 2002, 9.2% in 2005 and 6.0% in 2008. There produced output to the 

extent of 3.3 million Manat in agriculture in the same year that is higher 535.0 million Manat 

than the figure of 2007. 

According to data of the State Statistics Committee, overall product of agriculture in 2008 

increased as 6.1% in relation to 2007 under fixed prices. This increase was possible because 

of mainly actions carried out in the country towards execution of commitments arising from 

“State Programme on proverty reduction and economic development in Azerbaijan Republic 

for 2003-2005 years”, “State Programme on social-economic development of regions of 

Azerbaijan Republic (2004-2008 years)” and other adopted documents. Application of “Rules 

on aids under state budget funds for fuel and engine oil used by agricultural producers in 

cultivation of arable lands and privileged sale of mineral fertilizers to agricultural producers 

by individuals” in the country with the Decision#32 dated February 15, 2007 of the Cabinet of 

Ministers of Azerbaijan Republic subject to execution of the Decree №1907 dated January 23, 

2007 of the President of Azerbaijan Republic “On state support to agricultural producers” has 

brought its positive results. 

There approved “Rules on aids under state budget funds on purpose of promotion of financial 

interest of corn-growers and stimulation of corn production” in order to provide aid for corngrowers 

under the Decision dated November 16, 2007 of the Cabinet of Ministers. 

Countrywide agricultural production increased mainly in 2009 as compared to 2002. 

№ Agricultural products (thousand ton) 2009 2002 Difference ± 

1 Corn 2988.3 2195.8 +792.5 

2 Potato 979.1 694.9 +284.2 

3 Vegetable 1161.7 974.6 +187.1 

4 Truck crops 409.9 330.3 +79.6 

5 Fruit 704.5 516.8 +187.7 

6 Meat (in cut weight) 175.6 124.6 +51 

7 Milk (physical weight) 1381.6 1119.8 +261.8 

8 Wool (physical weight) 14.8 11.8 +3.0 

9 Egg (million pieces) 1008.7 561.6 +447.1 

Role of farming economy increased considerably in enhancement of volume of output 

production. More than 99.0% of produced agricultural output is shared by non-state sector. 

80-85% of main foodstuffs consumed by the population is shared by non-state sector. 

81 

2009



Lands under crop increased yearly. So that despite 1224.8 thousand ha land were used for 

cultivation purpose in 2002, this figure equalled to 1852.0 thousand ha in 2009. One of its 

main reasons is intensification of state support to agricultural producers, also another factor is 

existence and development of different farming economies. There existed 36 state farmings 

(limited liability companies) in the country up to January 1, 2009 and 2613 individuals (who 

established legal entities), 2 collective farm-cooperative ownership, 2258 agricultural 

enterprises, 873618 family farm corporations, 220 other state farms (scientific-research, 

training, practice and etc.). 

Number of employed people in labor market was equivalent to 4194 thousand persons and 

hereof, totalled to 46.9% of the countrywide population up to beginning of 2009. 

39.8% of the employed population are those working for agriculture. 

Animal raising: Animal breeding sector was developed in dynamic way in 2009 as compared 

to 2002, thus number of horned livestock, sheeps and goats increased. There existed 2178.6 

thousand heads of horned livestock, 6986.4 thousand heads of sheeps and goats in the country 

within 2002 and these figures reached to 2569.6 thousand and 8276.2 thousand heads in 2008 

and totalled to 2356.3 thousand and 7630.9 thousand heads accordingly. 

Also, number of birds and swines/boars increased in the compared period. Number of birds 

totalled to 17137.5 thousand heads in 2002 year, 19000.0 thousand heads in 2005 year, 

2352.9 thousand heads in 2009 and number of swines/boars equalled to 19.8 thousand heads, 

22.9 thousand heads in 2005 and 10.3 thousand heads in 2009 accordingly. 

Share of cows and buffaloes totalled to 48.5% among horned livestock and hereof, preserved 

its growth tendency. Share of cows and buffaloes as 55-60% in cattle is deemed to be normal. 

Development of cattle breeding together with plant growing is one of the most significant 

tasks of employees working for agrarian sector on the basis of responsibilities arising from 

“State Programme on reliable provision of foodstuffs and nutritions of the population in 

Azerbaijan Republic within 2008-2015 years” approved by the Decree dated August 25, 2008 

of the President of Azerbaijan Republic, the Decree dated August 21, 2008 of the President of 

Azerbaijan Republic “On some issues related to additional support to supply of agricultural 

producers with seeds, fertilizers and pedigree livestock” as well as the Decision#46 dated 

February 14, 2006 of the Cabinet of Ministers of Azerbaijan Republic “On additional actions 

for development of animal breeding in Azerbaijan Republic”. 

As a result of expedient measures taken, share of the imported key foodstuffs is being 

declined and its share in export is being enhanced year by year. 

Energy value of daily consumed foodstuffs of the countrywide population per capita reached 

to 2445 kcal in 2009 as compared to 2343 kcal in 2002 is more than normal rate 

recommended by the World Health Organization and demanded in physiological standpoint 

(daily food consumption to the extent of 2100 kcal per capita is recommended by the World 

Health Organization). 

A tendency rised up towards efficient use of the existing lands and cultivated fields enhanced 

for sale purpose resulted from declining of share of croplands farmed for families only. 

Increase in number of cattle and birds in the last years is also related to growth of the 

82 

2009



population engaged in animal breeding. A tendency to obtain profit from current lands 

strengthens gradually. 

Control over quality of foodstuffs consumed by the population has been intensified. 

According to the Decision#154 dated August 16, 2005 of the Cabinet of Ministers of 

Azerbaijan Republic, proper bodies of Ministry of Economic Development, Ministry of 

Agriculture, Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and State Committee on 

Standardization, Metrology and Patent execute control over adherence by legal entities and 

individuals to technical, ecological, sanitary, veterinary and phytosanitary standards, norms, 

rules and requirements providing for terms on quality and safety of foodstuffs and, conditions 

on production, transportation, storage, packing, labeling and sale. 

Livestock breeding and pastures 

The extent of livestock has increased significantly in recent years. In 2002 there were 

estimated to be 2,153,000 cattle and 6,800,000 sheep and goats in Azerbaijan, an increase 

since 1993 of 49% and 51% respectively. As a result of land privatization, livestock are now 

owned by private companies and individuals. 

In the last 20 years, out of 80 infection 

and invasive diseases that are included 

in the International Epizodic Bureau 

list A and B, 38 diseases have been 

found in the livestock of the country. 

Foot and Mouth Disease has been a 

problem amongst CIS countries since 

2001, and remains the main health 

problem for livestock in Azerbaijan. 

Sixteen control points have been 

established for meat inspection, but 

disease control is hindered by lack of 

finances and equipment. 

Picture 

Azerbaijan has the greatest extent of pastureland within the southern Caucasus region, 

totalling 3,873,800 ha (including 1,548,900 ha of winter pastures, 602,900 ha of summer 

pastures and 1,722, 000 ha around villages) (According to the information for 1.12.2009). 

Despite the existence of such large areas of natural pasture, only 43% of winter pasture, and 

29% of summer pasture was provided for sheep in 2002, and just 24% of the pasture 

surrounding the villages was used to graze cattle. However, grazing densities for cattle were 

high, and were estimated to be over twice recommended grazing norms. Intensive use leads 

to erosion, changes in the structure of the pasture community and an increase of invasive 

species. Productivity of pasture lands in some places has reduced by 2-3 times, and the level 

of fodder has reduced by 50-60%, and it is thought that 70% of pastures are threatened by 

erosion, and 16-20% had become salinated. Research shows that the area of land suitable for 

both winter and summer pastures has been significantly reduced. Despite this, there are few 

measures are being followed to maintain the productivity of the pastures, and some pastures 

are being used inappropriately (for example for conversion into cropland, which destroys the 

pasture and increases risks of salinisation and erosion). 

Summer and winter pastures, cattle grazing fields and moving roadways have been assigned 

to ownership of local executive powers or municipalities being referred to state land fund of 

83 

2009



Azerbaijan Republic. These pastures are handed to use or lease in due manner for 10-15 years 

subject to fee by individuals and legal entities having sheeps and goats in ownership and use. 

According to data dated 01.01.2010 of Ministry of Agriculture, there exist 873618 families 

gained lands in rural regions of the country. 5969.0 thousand heads of sheeps and goats are 

kept by these families. There exist 1395.1 thousand ha winter pasture with capacity of 2946.0 

thousand heads and 570 thousand ha summer pasture with capacity of 1941.0 thousand heads 

in their usage. 

As a result of the agricultural land reforms, local executive bodies and municipalities have 

been given ownership of the pastures. These are then leased to organizations or individuals 

for 10–15 year terms. According to the Ministry of Agriculture figures for 2003, 785,400 

families own the lands in the rural regions of Azerbaijan, to keep a total of 5,969 thousand 

animals. Out of owned 1,395,100 hectares of winter pastures and 570,000 hectares of summer 

pastures only 2,946,000 and 1,941,000 of animals accordingly may be kept. However, in 

some cases there are problems with this system as people wish to avoid the charges associated 

with leasing land. In addition, the influx of refugees and internally displaced people into rural 

areas has placed additional pressure on the agricultural environment, as use is intensified 

around refugee camps and centres. 

Fertilizers. Rural chemical service enterprises of the republic are mainly privatized and no 

any centralized provision service exist. Mineral fertilizers are imported from foreign countries 

by several individuals and legal entities and delivered to consumers. Organic fertilizers are 

procured and used in farmings engaged in animal breeding and poultry. 

It should be noted that volume of mineral fertilizers imported to the country declined, also its 

application was in very low up to 2002 resulted from absence of centralized provision, 

individual approach to production of majority of the farmers, escalation of prices and 

generally diminishing of previous economic relations. 

Nevertheless there was demand for mineral fertilizers subject to total 301.0 thousand ton 

affective substance in the country in a year, 140.1 thousand ton was used in 1990 year, 52.6 

thousand ton in 1994 year, 13.4 thousand ton in 2000 year and only 10.5 thousand ton in 2001 

year. The used fertilizers were mainly (90-95%) comprised by nitrogenous manures. 

Subject to affective substance for agricultural plants there delivered 14.3 thousand ton (12.9 

thousand ton nitrogen, 1.43 thousand ton phosphorous) in 2002 year, 17.6 thousand ton (15.8 

thousand ton nitrogen, 1.8 thousand ton phosphorous) in 2003 year, 20.6 thousand ton (16.9 

thousand ton nitrogen, 1.8 thousand ton phosphorous and 1.9 thousand ton potassium) in 2004 

year, 23.7 thousand ton (19.5 thousand ton nitrogen, 2.0 thousand ton phosphorous and 2.2 

thousand ton potassium) in 2005 year, 25.2 thousand ton (20.7 thousand ton nitrogen, 2.5 

thousand ton phosphorous and 2.0 thousand ton potassium) in 2006 year, 20.1 thousand ton 

(16.5 thousand ton nitrogen, 2.0 thousand ton phosphorous and 1.6 thousand ton potassium) 

in 2007 year, 40.7 thousand ton (31.7 thousand ton nitrogen, 4.5 thousand ton phosphorous 

and 4.5 thousand ton potassium) in 2008 year (Collection of data for 2009 has not been 

completed yet). As evident from table 5.2 and 5.3, quantity of mineral fertilizers given per ha 

of agricultural plants increases year by year. Rise in keen interest to grain growing is 

distinctive in stable increasing of manure use in this sphere. 

(See: Annexes 4.1, 4.2, 4.3). 

Protection and phyto-sanitary control of plants. Right usage of pesticides plays great role 

in protection of the environment. Harmful chemical products which commonly adopted and 

permitted, were used in Azerbaijan during Soviet regime. Including, application of long-term 

84 

2009



used pesticides which decompounded lately, hardly solved in water, had toxicity and 

hazardous for human and wildlife, caused to pollution of the environment. 

At the present, usage of more than 100 pesticides recorded at state registration is permitted in 

Azerbaijan. Import and sale of pesticides were implemented on the basis of special permit 

(licence) up to 2002. But after cancellation of licences multiple unregistered toxical pesticides 

are delivered and it should be prevented categorically in governmental level. 

On the other hand, new biological and other prevention methods must be priority in order 

gradually minimize chemical prevention methods. 

As many states (Iran, Turkey, Russia Federation, Georgia and etc.) of the world situated in 

border with geographical location of Azerbaijan, quarantine features of the imported 

vegetable (phytogenous) foodstuffs, seed and saplings which have special hazard and are not 

characteristic for Azerbaijan, should be prevented and phyto-sanitary measures should be 

carried out. 

Adoption of relevant statutory documents on status in delivery, use and sale of pesticides 

would be deemed expedient. 

In spite of the existing difficulties, there produced 103625 tons of corn including maize grain 

on agricultural entities of all categories of Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic in current 

year. Average 28.3 centner product was output of per ha. 

In current year (2009) output of several key agricultural products by producers in view of 

demand of domestic market is as follows. So that 37423tons of potato, 63627 tons of 

vegetable, 39583 tons of truck crops, 37782 tons of fruit, 13790 tons of grape, 15783 tons of 

sugar beet and 4.0 tons of tobacco were produced. In Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, 

as elsewhere in Azerbaijan, recent land reform has had significant impacts on agriculture, 

resulting in upturn in this sector. Over 99% of agricultural output is now produced by the 

private sector. In 2000, agricultural products were worth 269 billion manats, which was 

29.6% higher than the previous year. As a result of internal markets, production was 

increased for almost all products, apart from tobacco for which production fell by 81% 

between 1999 and 2000. Livestock numbers have also risen. Despite a drought in 2002 

agricultural output remained high 38 . In 2001, 15,724 ha of land were under cultivation (an 

increase of 46% on 1999), and productivity of this land also increased over this period, 

particularly in terms of grain production. However, one identified threat to ongoing 

production is the spread of a number of weed species, and measures are needed to prevent 

their further expansion. Weeds are also invading a number of pastures and hayfields, 

associated with their over-use and degradation, and some of these weeds are poisonous to 

livestock. As elsewhere in Azerbaijan, Nakhichevan relies on irrigation systems to support 

intensive agriculture, and much of the irrigation infrastructure is in a poor state of repair. 

Salination contributes to land degradation and the change in grassland communities to more 

salt-tolerant forms. 

Limited access to pastures results in overstocking (with densities of up to 150 head/ha), and 

privately owned flocks from villages are often pastured freely on communal land, with little 

awareness of regulated use, resulting in trampling of vegetation, erosion, change in plant 

communities and destruction of natural habitats. 

38 Agricultural output in 2002 included 54,428 tonnes of grain, 13, 454 tonnes of potatoes, 42,723 tonnes 

of vegetables, 33,567 tonnes of melons, 28,444 tonnes of fruits, 14,015 tonnes of grapes, 45,499 tonnes 

of sugar-beet and 28,200 tonnes of tobacco were produced 

85 

2009

3.2.2. Forestry 



Azerbaijan is referred to sparsely forested countries. Overall area of forest fund is 1213.7 

thousand ha (out of them 989.5 thousand ha is covered with forest) and totalled to 11.4% of 

the countrywide territory. 0.14 ha forest area is shared by per capita in the country. 

Forests of the republic is referred to first category and carries functions of soil protective, 

water- hold and climate sensitivity and it is prohibited to conduct top cutting in these forests. 

Major forest areas were referred to state forest fund (934.5 thousand ha) and public and 

community facilities (54.0 thousand ha). Adequate protection and conservation regimes are 

applied in forests because of their categories. 

Forests on area spreaded out unevenly. Share of Great Caucasus in overall forest area - 

48.8%, Little Caucasus - 34.2%, Talish - 14.5%, Kura-Araz plain - 2.5%, Nakhichevan - 

0.5%. There exist areas of thick forests (Balakan - 49.3%, Lankaran - 44.1%, Zagatala - 

41.5% and etc.) alongside with bare and woodless fields (Zardab, Bilasuvar, Salyan and etc.). 

Wood reserve of the forests totalled to 59.73 million m 3 in beech forests, to 27.97 million m 3 

in oak forests and to 59.73 million m 3 in hornbeam forests. Overall wood reserve in montane 

forests totalled to 110.92 million m 3 or 81.4%. Total wood reserve of overall broadleaf trees is 

114.85 million m 3 or 94.67%. 

Spread out of forests on density is various. 13.7% of the countrywide forests is in low density, 

65.2% in medium density, 18.3% in normal density and 2.8% in high density (0.9-1.0). Total 

average density of the forests is determined as 0.5. High density forests total to 22.6 thousand 

ha of forest areas being remained mainly in outlying and inaccessible forest lands. 


The greatest difficulties in forest preservation, forest renewal/ reforestation and 

implementation of actions in this line are made by forest peoples and other concerned parties. 

Demand for firewood and wood as fuel causes to occurrence of illegal cut-offs in the forests. 

Most significant of problems to be necessarily solved in forest conservation and preservation 

is to minimize illegal wood cutting. 

Analysis of statistic reports on last period shows that illegal forest cut-offs decline year by 

year. Fuel shortage and deficiency can be mentioned as main reason for wood cut-offs in all 

cases. Replacement of demand for wood as fuel type with other fuel types can diminish 

impact of the rural peoples upon forests. Gasification of regions as well as villages has been 

expanded throughout the republic recently. Continuance of rural gasification is one of 

important issues for deterioration in demand for wood. 

Usable wood gained from environmental harvesting and sanitation cutting in countrywide 

forests totalled to a few part of the need. As evident from analysis of the situation that 2 lines 

should be in focus to slow down demand for usable wood and woodware/timber materials and 

subsequently, to minimize pressure on forest resources: 

1. Organization of more efficient usage of the existing forests. 

2. Enhancement of volume of the imported usable wood and woodware. 

86 

2009



Moreover, forestry of the republic has faced with more grevious challenge. 261 thousand ha 

(or 25% of wood covered area) forest area remained under occupation and getting out of 10.2 

thousand ha forest area from farming turnover due to Armenian aggression. 

Forests of the republic are conserved and reafforested by proper structural authorities of the 

Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources. 40 forest guard and forest replantation 

enterprises are engaged in protection, preservation, renewal and reforestation. There approved 

“National Programme on forest renewal and enhancement in Azerbaijan Republic” by the 

Decree №1152 dated February 18, 2003 in order to provide elimination of problems appeared 

in forestries within the last years and development of forests. Execution of this National 

Programme was entrusted with the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources. 

Main purpose in adoption of the National Programme is to implement management of 

countrywide forestry more effectively and to increase density of I category forests having 

water hold, air cleaning, sanitary-hygienic and social-ecological functions and to enhance 

valuable tree and bush species. Goals and objectives of the Programme included partial 

satisfaction of people’s demand for small usable wood through cultivation of short-duration 

and quickly growing trees, expansion of protective forest strips and belts, preservation of 

agricultural lands, prevention of soil erosion, conservation of water sources and protection of 

forests from fires and harmful insects. 

The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources commenced execution of the National 

Programme and completed it successfully in 2008 since approval of the National Programme. 

Forest Development Department of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and its 

local divisions overfulfilled forecasts planning of forest renewal and reforestation provided 

for every year since spring season of 2003 including 2008. So that forests were regenerated 

and reafforested in approximate 60 thousand ha field within the past period. This figure was 

higher as two times in comparison with the previous 5 years. 

There established forest plantation enterprises such as Jangi, Garadagh, Gilazi, Zardab and 

Nakhichevan and regional forest seed orchards such as Absheron, Guba and Kura in order to 

create forest landscape by modifying wild landscape in arid and semidesert areas which 

deprived of natural vegetation peculiarized with the hardest forest planting condition, to 

change soil and climate condition of the area, to prevent erosion processes and to avoid 

desertification. 213 million plant materials were cultivated in various cultivars and strains 

comprised by trees and shrubs at seed orchards within 2003-2008. Seed harvesting totalled to 

1127 tons. 

One of priority features of the aforesaid National Programme is to renew sparse woodlands in 

the country, to improve its species, to reafforest in bare and nonwood areas and thereby to 

pave the way for enhancement of countrywide forest covered areas and rising up to 

international norms. 

87 

2009



Forests are sparse in Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, they are functioning as park and 

have been fragmented. There exist no any forests in Sadarak and Sharur regions. There are 

3365 ha forest at balance of Nakhichevan AR and 1348 ha are covered with forests. At the 

present, area forests became sparse and cut-off forest fields have been replaced with 

shrublands due to undergoing intensive human impacts. Natural recovery and restoration 

stopped due to mowing and grazing of forestside meadows and forest glades. On one hand, 

biological diversity of forest lands is impacted by hard ecological factors and on the other 

hand, by farming activity of people as well as disease and insects. Assignment of a part of 

forest lands to the population as a lot impacted its destructive effect upon forests within the 

last years. 

Large-scale forestry and greenery works started in the territory of Nakhichevan Autonomous 

Republic in the last years. So that there carried out forest plantation and reforestation works 

and more than 400 thousand tree saplings and flower shrubs were planted in 486 ha area in 

spring season of 2008 and 2009. It means that every person has planted one tree in the 

Autonomous Republic. Furthermore schemes and layouts of areas to be planted in cities, 

settlements, villages, roadsides of highways and around of water reservoirs and water canals 

have been drafted and dislocation plan of plant fields has been elaborated through selection 

of trees and seeds in compliance with soil and climate features. Hundreds ha of differently 

salinized and eroded soil have been recovered for arable rotation as a result of multiple 

actions. Green belts are planted not only in water reservoir areas of the Autonomous 

Republic. Many gardens exist in the region being planted in bench form on hillock and 

slopes. Experience gained in several foreign countries are successfully used while planting 

new woodlands. One of them is application of drop irrigation system. 

Nature guard and its enrichment are internationally important with global peculiarities. 

Nevertheless greenery areas totalled to 0.6% of the territory of the Autonomous Republic in 

2000, this figure reached to 1.6% in 2008. Volume of greenery per capita rised up to 0.021 

ha from 0.012 ha. 

3.2.3. Fisheries 

There constructed and commissioned fish rearing station for Khilly sturgeon in 2003 in order 

to preserve and recover resources of sturgeons in the Caspian sea. 

Serious problems appeared in procurement of sturgeon spawning fishs in Azerbaijan within 

the past years as been in all Caspian countries. These problems adversely impacted upon 

quantity indicators of artificial propagation of sturgeons. Dependence of sturgeon fish rearing 

stations on private companies in view of spawning procurement cause this problem to be 

salient. Creation of repair-spawning fund in Khilly sturgeon fish rearing station started since 

2004 in order to eliminate this problem partially even. At the present, 400 thousand fishes of 

various cohort are represented in this fund. Use of these fishes as spawner is intended in the 

nearest future. Application of hard roe method without killing spawners is one of the actions 

oriented towards solution of this problem. Besides, all these will serve to declining of pressure 

upon resources of such valuable fishes existing in nature. 

Conducting of marine expeditions in the Caspian was renewed by Azerbaijan Scientific- 

Research Fishery Institute in 2004 after a long time (1998-2004). Fishery resources, quality 

and quantity indices, dissemination of fishes in Azerbaijan waters of the Caspian, feeds 

provision and areal are studied through expeditions carried out by “Alif Hajiyev” research 

vessel that it ensures fishery on scientific basis. 

88 

2009



Decline in fishing as compared to 2003 was possible mainly on account of sprat and 

sturgeons. Its reason is related to reduction as 12-16 times of number and biomass of 

zooplanctons which sprats feeded with and subsequently, diminishing of volume of sprat 

fishery due to impact of Mnemiopsis Leidiyi being alien specy for the Caspian. 

Notwithstanding national quotas were allocated by the Bioresources Commission in 2006 and 

2009 no requests were addressed for industrial fishing of sturgeons by the organizations 

engaged in fishing and fish trade, because export quota has not been ratified by the 

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. 

(See: Annexes 6.1, 6.2 , 6.3 and 6.4) 

3.2.4. Industry 

As a result of downswing in industrial production under 

Picture 

economic crisis condition at the beginning of 1990 years, 

generation of social-economic crisis situation within the 

following five years and nonoccurrence of new socialeconomic 

relations quantity of industrial wastes decreased. 

But the problems accrued from the previous years remained 

unsolved. Most significant problems - pollution of the 

environment (mainly soil and water sources) with industrial 

wastes in industry zones and surrounding fields and expiry 

of operating life of old technologies and equipment. 

In this situation involvement of foreign investors for application of ecologically safe modern 

technologies is put forward. 

As a result of large-scale and fundamental reforms in countrywide economy essential 

outcomes were obtained in the industry within 1995-2008. Contracts on joint activity in oil & 

gas industry which signed with advanced companies representing worldwide developed 

countries on September 20, 1994 stimulated rapid growth of oil and gas industry. 

Production of cash registers, microcalculators, telephone sets, household electricity 

appliances, plastic doors and window units, special pipes for oil transportation and other 

output were digested in the last years. Launching production in Azerbaijan of a part of many 

goods previously imported from foreign countries enabled enrichment of our domestic market 

and almost elimination of import dependency. 

All these gave a strong push for enhancement of business activity in the industry and 

development of small entrepreneurship. It is a result of “open door” policy pursued by the 

President that number of foreign and joint enterprises increased as three times. Presently, 

about 200 foreign investment enterprises are working for in the industry which representing 

63 states and, there created thousands of work places. Considerable increase of newly 

generated economies, expansion and dynamic growth of small enterpises and engagement of 

individuals in business are accompanied by gradual rise of non-governmental sector. 

So that share of non-state sector in overall output of industrial product increased to 75% in 

2008 as compared to 5.5% in 1995. 

89 

2009



Dynamic growth of oil sector will pave a strong way for more acceleration of non-oil sectors 

development. Moreover, favourable investment atmosphere created in non-oil sector, ongoing 

privatization process and other reforms will provide more intensive development of non-oil 

sector within 2008-2012. 

Industrial output to the extent of 28 billion Manat was produced in 2008 and increased as 6% 

in comparison with 2007. There produced 44.5 million tons of oil and 16.3 billion m 3 of gas 

within 2008 that it is higher as 4.6% and 50.4% as compared to 2007. 

Untreated discharged effluents diverted to water facilities totalled to 181 million m 3 in 2008. 

Volume of pollutant emissions totalled to 923.0 thousand tons and 281 thousand tons out of 

them are shared by stationary pollution sources/ fixed sources of environmental pollution. 

Volume of sewage diverted to water reservoirs decreased as 1.7 times, volume of pollutant 

emissions as 3.1 times in 2008 in comparison with 1990. 

Volume of waters incoming from countrywide water-storage basins totalled to 11.735 billion 

m 3 in 2008. Volume of waters taken from countrywide water sources decreased as 1.4 times 

in 2008 as compared to 1990. Actual consumption of water was 7.886 billion m 3 , 68% hereof 

was used in irrigation, 26% in production and 4.4% for household-farming purposes. Despite 

strong water demand appeared in the country, 32.8% of intake water is lost while its delivery. 

Basic indices characterizing effect of human activity upon the environment are mentioned in 

the following table: 

Water taken from 

water sources, million 

m 3 

Water consumption, 

million m 3 

Discharge of water to 

surface watercourses, 

million m 3 

Pollutant emissions, 

thousand tons 

including: 

stationary sources 

motor transport 

1990 1995 2000 2005 2006 2007 2008 

16176 

12477 

303 

2846.1 

2108.5 

737.6 

13976 

10223 

134 

1325.4 

878.6 

446.8 

90 

11110 

6588 

171 

908.1 

515.4 

392.7 

12050 

8607 

161 

1054 

558 

12360 

8865 

163 

875 

344 

12270 

8371 

177 

970 

386 

11735 

Share of pollutant emissions from fixed sources of environmental pollution per m 2 area unit of 

the republic totals to 3.2 tons, share of of pollutant emissions per capita totals to 33 kg. 

496 

531 

7886 

It should be noted that one of factors considerably effecting to aggravation of countrywide 

ecological situation is characterized in previously accumulated and presently generated 

hazardous wastes. At the present, there remained approximate 2.5 million tons of hazardous 

wastes in landfills, enterprises and refuse dumps. 

Alongside with that declining in scale of construction and reconstruction of nature 

conservancy facilities due to insufficient investment to basic capital adversely impacted upon 

584 

181 

923 

281 

642 

2009



protection of environment. So, basic capital outlay towards protection of environment and 

effective use of natural resources totalled to 97.8 million Manat in 2008. 

Table 3.10. Air pollutants in the largest four cities of Azerbaijan 

(exceeded norm for some times) 

Pollutant Baku Sumgayit Mingachevir Shirvan 

Dust 1-1.2 2 2-2.3 2 

Sulphur anhydride -- -- 1-1.2 -- 

Carbon oxide -- -- 1-1.5 -- 

Nitrogen 4-oxide 1.5-2 2-2.2 1-1.5 1.6-1.8 

3.2.5. Construction 

Economic and social progress of Azerbaijan was closely related to the extent of construction 

in the years of 2003-2008. Production and non-production designated large buildings and 

facilities were constructed and commissioned, the existing ones were expanded and 

reconstructed in the country territory within these years. 

38.1 billion Manat investment was laid on basic capital by enterprises and organizations of all 

ownership forms for development of countrywide economy and social sphere. 13.6 billion 

Manat (35.8%) of the used investment are shared by state owned organizations, 24.5 billion 

Manat (64.2%) by non-state owned organizations. The investment laid on basic capital 

totalled to 9.9 billion Manat in 2008 and it is higher as 3.0 times in comparison with 2003. 

There spent 1.5 billion Manat or funds to 3.8% of overall investment on basic capital by the 

population in order to improve current social condition. Commissioning of new production 

facilities was provided in these years by spending 31.1 billion Manat or funds to 81.7% of 

overall investment towards development of countrywide production sector. 

Favorable condition created together with foreign investors in the course of market economy 

transition resulted in outlay of more investments for economy growth in the country by them. 

Foreign investment totalled to 18.5 billion Manat (48.6%) of overall volume of investment 

laid on basic capital within 2003-2008. 

There spent investment of 24.1 billion Manat (63.2%) for development of industry branch of 

the economy, 2.7 billion Manat (7.2%) for housing, 4.5 billion Manat (11.9%) for transport 

and 0.6 billion manat (1.7%) for trade and service in the years of 2003-2008. 

Individual dwelling houses to the extent of 6.0 million m 2 were put into usage on account of 

personal funds within these years and 2.5 million m 2 i.e. 41.4% of them were constructed in 

rural areas. 

But it should be noted that in many cases dwelling houses and facilities are constructed 

without agreement of proper organizations and state expertise for relevant documents on 

allocation of land plots. For example, we can mention building massive allocated for property 

development in sanitory zone of Jeyranbatan water reservoir on sides of Baku-Rostov 

highway. Such developments were carried out in Absheron peninsula and Nabran-Khudat 

areas in sanitary-protection zones of the Caspian coast within the last years. Construction, 

repair-refurbishment and reconstruction works in Baku city were performed in violation of 

key design principles and requirements of applicable master plot plan in many cases. 

Dwelling houses and other facilities were constructed in protection zones of oil and gas 

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pipelines, water mains, multiple underground communication lines and power substations 

and, even in green zones. Such cases were observed in territories of other regions, too. 

Absence of connection to relevant public utilities and nonavailability of necessary 

infrastructure cause to pollution of the environment. 

Impacts upon the environment enhanced due to construction of many facilities in coastal areas 

without adherence to ecological and sanitary norms in the last years. The Decree dated 

January 13, 2003 of the President of Azerbaijan Republic is very important in ensuring 

regulation of use of the Caspian beach and shore. 

Establishment of industrial complexes, plants and other like designated enterprises on 

construction materials, reinforced-concrete, brick, marbled travertine and etc.in Nakhichevan 

Autonomous Republic having rich and multiple building materials, enabled delivery of 

building materials to worldwide markets. Construction-assembly and building-repair works 

carried out hereof, are provided on account of internal construction materials and funds. 

Presently, 62 construction-assembly organizations exist in the region that out of them 38 are 

large-scale, 24 are small and medium production-scale units. Capital outlay on construction 

increased as 5.2 times in comparison with the previous years within the past 6 years and 

there performed construction-assembly works to the amount of 813.4 million Manat in the 

Autonomous Republic in this period. 

3.2.6 Mining industry 

Proper geological study of Azerbaijan territory started from 1930 years and a number of 

industrial fields and deposits such as iron Fe, molibdenum, cobalt, polymetal were discovered 

at the shortest time and put into operation. 

Field development works were carried out by russian, german, english and partially local 

manufacturers in cobalt deposits of Dashkasan, copper deposits of Gadabay, Bittibulag and 

Balakan from 40 years of XIX century to 20 years of XX century because of library materials. 

There extracted 56 thousand tons of copper, 6.3-12.7 tons of gold, 120.6-126.1 tons of silver 

from Gadabay copper deposit, 608 tons of cobalt ore from Dashkasan cobalt deposit, 16000 

tons of copper ore from Bittibulag copper deposit and they were transported to Germany by 

“Siemens” firm within 1867-1914 years. 

Beginning of geological prospecting works and mining industry in the territory of Azerbaijan 

Republic fell on the second half of XIX century. 

Current status and prospects of mineral raw materials base of Azerbaijan territory and 

involvement of foreign and national investments on mining industry and geological survey of 

countrywide earth core create wide opportunities for integration of mining products into 

world market. Pursuant to the Decree №782 dated September 2, 2002 of the President of 

Azerbaijan Republic “On improvement of rules for issuance of special permit (licence) to 

some activities”, activity on use of earth core has not been included in the register and 

therefore, issuance of licences has been suspended. 

According to the Decision №1 dated January 9, 1999 of the Cabinet of Ministers of 

Azerbaijan Republic, 470 Acts like “Mining certificate” were issued for geological survey of 

earth core, use of subsurface waters and development of non-metallic deposits by 

governmental, private and foreign organizations in the years of 2003-2009. 

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At the present, territory of the republic was divided into Shaki-Balakan, Lok-Garabagh, 

Lachin-Kalbajar, Vejnali, Araz and Talish geological-economic regions in compliance with 

feature of mineralization and, Zagatala-Balakan, Shaki-Gonagkand, Gadabay-Dashkasan, 

Mehmana, Murovdagh, Gazakh, Aghjakand, Khojavand, Joyja-Akara, Kalbajar-Gochaz, 

Vejnali, Astara-Lerik, Ordubad, Sharur, Nakhichevan regions subject to structure formation 

and structure metallogeny zones, industrial development and prospectivity of metallic ore 

mineral deposits and peculiarity of its oil bearing was reviewed. 

Current mineral-raw materials base and industrial resources of Azerbaijan Republic contain 

460 deposits, including 20 ore minerals (iron, alunite, copper, lead, gold, cobalt, mercury, 

molibdenum), 39 nonmetallic minerals (bentonite clay, rock salt, dolomite, gypsum, sulphur, 

kaolin clay, quartz sand, mineral color, flux and limestone for soda production), 303 building 

materials (saw stone, ornamental/cap stone, clay, cement raw meal, building stone, sandgravel 

mix, mortar sand, bitumen sands, perlite and etc.) and 98 subsurface water deposits 

(iodine-bromide, potable, mineral and thermal) which appropriately recorded at state 

registration and area balance. 

68 of them are under occupation, including 6 ore, 4 nonmetallic, 47 building materials and 11 

subsurface water deposits are situated in the occupied territories. 

According to the Decree dated February 5, 1996 of the President of Azerbaijan Republic “On 

prospecting and development of several gold deposits in Azerbaijan Republic” for purpose of 

creation of gold-mining industry in the republic, there signed an agreement on prospecting, 

development and production sharing of prospective gold deposits such as Gadabay, Gosha, 

Ordubad range (Pyazbashy, Aghyurd, Shakardara, Kalaki), Soyudlu, Gizilbulag and Vejnali 

gold deposits between former “Azergizil” State Company and “RV Investment Group 

Services” LLC of USA on August 20, 1997 and additional survey works were launched in 

other deposits except to Soyudlu (Zod), Gizilbulag and Vejnali deposits located in the areas 

occupied by armenians since 2005. 

There signed an Agreement “On survey, exploration, prospecting, development and 

production sharing of Garadagh, Chovdar, Goydagh, Dashkasaman ore fields, Kohnamadan 

area and Kurakchay deposits” between the Government of Azerbaijan Republic and “Londex 

Resources S.A”, “Will and Mayris S.A”, “Fargeit Mining Copogeyhn”, “Olobex International 

LLR” and “Mitsui Mineral Development Engineering Co. Ltd” on December 30, 2006 

according to the Decree №1877 dated December 28, 2006. 

303 mineral deposits being in operation and reserve - 27 ore deposits (including 7 deposits in 

the occupied territory), 84 nonmetallic deposits (20 deposits in the occupied territory), 191 

building material deposits (47 deposits in the occupied territory) and 1 subsurface water 

deposit were recorded at field balance. 

It should be noted that total 142 mineral deposits and appearances of various types remained 

in the occupied territories of the republic. 

The environment is damaged in a great number during open type operation of mineral 

deposits. 

Ten thousands ha of winter pasture fields in Absheron peninsula and Gobustan area became 

unsuitable due to operation of building materials. 

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At the present, there exist quarries in the above areas. Millions m 2 surface rocks and mineral 

rocks flow out surrounding areas because of operation works and subsequently, sparse 

vegetative environment is suffered seriously. A progress has been achieved in this sphere 

related to land reform implemented after gaining independency of our republic. 

Geoecological works and seismic-hydrogeodynamic survey are ongoing in ore-based regions 

and adjoining plain areas of Azerbaijan in the last years in order to assess changes occurred in 

the environment as well as to observe and forecast development of Exogen Geological 

Processes which considerably damage countrywide economy resulted from various scale 

geological, geophysical, hydrogeological and engineering geoplanning works and, operations 

on exploration and prospecting of solid mineral and subsurface potable water deposits and, 

pollution of the country territory and subsurface waters by technogen impacts. 

Mining works to the overall extent of ten thousands cubic meters are carried out every year in 

the course of exploration and prospecting of mineral deposits and roads to the overall extent 

of hundred thousands cubic meters are paved in slopes and small squares and grounds are laid 

for drilling of bore wells. The environment suffer seriously while performing such works. Soil 

erosion processes intensify as a result of mining excavations and recovery of the laid 

roadways after completion of geological exploration and prospecting works and, vegetation 

fall out due to slopes washout and appearance of ravines. 

Thousands ha of areas become unusable resulted from flowout to surrounding areas of 

industrial wastes (slag/refuse burnout, ash and etc.) generated upon processing of minerals. 

Production wastes disrupt vegetation, input repugnant compounds to the migration and 

contaminate air, water and soil. Polluted river waters intoxicate wildlife upon flowing in sea. 

Heavy metals take dominany place among pollutants of the environment. Major and adjoining 

minerals in ore deposits discovered in Little Caucasus and southern slopes of Great Caucasus 

contain mainly high-toxic heavy metals. Usually, there happens pollution of the environment 

with heavy metals comprising deposits in areas where such deposits situated in. 

Mining excavations and the paved roadways should be recovered in the course of exploration 

and prospecting of mineral deposits after completion of field works and, quarry places should 

be recultivated and soil-vegetation should be restored after completion of operation works in 

the quarries in order to protect biodiversity. 

Sufficient prospectivity of molibdenum, zinc, lead, building lime and rock salt resources 

which produced based on raw source of Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, is evident. Rock 

salt reserve of Duzlag deposit was calculated as 100 thousand tons, reserve of Nehram rock 

salt deposit totals to 1-1.2 billion tons being the richest deposit. Sustan salt deposit has reserve 

of 750 thousand tons. Reserve of Nehram dolomite deposit equals to 130 million tons. 

Shahtakhly lining reserve totals to 8 million m 3 . 

Non-ferrous metals of Mehri-Ordubad area such as lead, zinc, molibdenum, copper and, 

Gumushlu lead-zinc, Aghdara polymetal, Paraghachay, Gapijig, Aghyurd, Diakhchay, Kilit 

copper-molibdenum, Kotam cobalt, Munundara and Pezbashy gold deposits are very 

important. Copper-molibdenum minery is operated in the territory of Ordubad region. There 

exist rich mineral and thermal water resources in the territory of the region. 

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3.2.7. Energy and oil extraction 



Reserves of fuel & energetics being one of the most advanced branches of countrywide 

industry totalled to 44.1 million tons of fuel equivalent in 2001 that it was less than the figure 

of 1990 as 45.6 million tons or 51%, but higher than the figure of 1995 as 4.6 million tons or 

12%. 28% of the consumed fuel was spent for production of electric and heat energy. 

Production of electric energy totalled to 21.6 billion kilowatt-hour in 2008 and it increased as 

1.7% in comparison with 2003. 88.2% of electric energy produced in 2008 is shared by heat 

Picture 

power stations, 6.8% by water power stations and 0.8% by mobile generators. Heat power 

stations cause to high level air pollution because of their functioning with gas and heavy oil 

(residual). 

There observed a decline in fuel equivalent spent for per kilowatt-hour of electric energy 

produced in power stations within the past years. In this period average 300 gram fuel 

equivalent was spent for per kilowatt-hour in a year. 

Considering electric energy production of 19.1 billion kilowatt-hour in heat power stations 

within 2008, then air pollution extent can be imagined. 

Oil extraction industry historically played a leading role in industrial complex of the country. 

This sector constituting a basis of fuel-energetics material supply determined structure of our 

economy and led to creation of industry branches such as oilrefinery, oil-chemistry and 

chemistry. At the present, role of this sector increased more. 

There established State Oil Company including enterprises on oil refinery and end products 

after gaining independency of Azerbaijan. This body was granted authorities necessary for 

execution of prospecting and development of oil & gas fields onshore and in Azerbaijan 

sector of the Caspian sea in order to provide development of oil-gas complex and to satisfy 

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fully demand of consumers for energy sources. Presently, the Company carried out oil & gas 

operations in 22 thousand ha area onshore and 10 thousand km 2 area offshore. 

The SOCAR employs 60400 persons, including 15500 women. Out of them 46000 work for 

oil & gas production, 6050 for refinery complex and 8350 for construction and other 

supporting units. 

At the present, there extracted oil and gas from 54 fields. 37 of them are situated in onshore 

area, 17 in shelf of the Caspian sea. All fields became wateriness in high extent due to longterm 

operation, except to Gunashli and Chirag offshore fields and oil production decreased 

sharply. As more than 70% of well stock are technically unsuitable, they are considered to be 

potential pollution source. Trestle and trestleside scaffolds and stationary/fixed platforms 

which expired its operation life, pollute the sea, too. 

Joint development of three large oil fields (Azeri, Chirag and deepwater sections of Gunashli) 

launched in Azerbaijan sector of the Caspian sea according to Contract signed between the 

SOCAR and the Consortium in which eleven foreign companies from six countries included 

on 1994 in order to eliminate the current situation. There established Azerbaijan International 

Operating Company (AIOC) for implementation of the Contract. Following this Contract 

more 20 large-scale oil contracts were signed with foreign oil companies on joint prospecting, 

development and production sharing of offshore and onshore oil fields and exploration 

targets. Good results were obtained under these contracts - Ashrafi oil field, Garabagh and 

Shah Daniz gas condensate fields were discovered. Shah Daniz field having one trillion m 3 

gas and 300 million condensate reserve is very important in growth of countrywide economy. 

At the present, construction of Baku-Tbilisi-Arzurum export gas pipeline and Baku-Tbilisi- 

Ceyhan export oil pipelines have been completed and commissioned. Length of the pipeline 

passing through Azerbaijan is 443 km and width 44 m. Protection zone of the pipelines cover 

2517.8 ha area in 58 m width and surface technical facilities involve 25.3 ha area and these 

lands were leased for 60 years. 

It should be noted that the Environment Impact Assessment documents are compiled and 

agreed with the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources in all phases of oil fields 

development in order to minimize environmental impact. 

Production of crude oil totalled to 44.5 million tons in 2008, including 96% offshore and 4% 

onshore. So, the decline in oil production was prevented which continued yearly due to 

objective causes since the end of 1960 years and oil production was higher as 2.9 times in 

comparison with 2003. Gas recovery totalled to 15.5 billion m 3 (including 99.2% offshore) in 

2008 and it increased as three times in comparison with 2003. Oil production totalled to 42.3 

million tons and gas recovery to 13.5 billion m 3 that within ten months of 2009 that it equals 

to 112.1% and 102.8% as compared to similar period of the previous year. 

Oil extraction and oil refinery industry had great impact upon the environment, including 

biological diversity. There started oil extraction by industrial method in Azerbaijan in 1871 in 

Balakhany-Sabunchu-Ramana fields of Absheron peninsula. Then new oil & gas fields were 

discovered and on stream without performance of necessary technical accomplishment works 

following one another in the peninsula and other onshore areas of the republic and Azerbaijan 

sector of the Caspian. Land storages and open canals were used in collection and 

transportation of well products for tens years. Ecosystems of both onshores and offshores 

were seriously damaged resulted from usage of elementary technical means in initial phases 

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and, absence of adherence to operational and maintenance conditions in drilling, operation 

and refurbishment of wells and, indifferent attitude to nature conservancy actions. 

Particularly, land resources of Absheron suffered considerably and 7400 ha area became 

completely unusable together with boring and oil sludge, produced waters, various chemical 

reagents, heavy metals and other repugnant wastes. Natural lakes were polluted and there 

appeared multiple artificial lakes. Oil and petroleum derivatives settled down to 3 m or more 

and polluted subsurface waters hereof. Local areas contaminated with natural radioactive 

nuclides were discovered in sites of major mines. It should be noted that Absheron peninsula 

is one of the passage routes of migratory birds. 

A great extent of lands were contaminated with petroleum derivatives in areas of oil fields in 

Guba-Caspian zone and medium and lower Kura valley. 

30 thousand m 3 household-sanitary sewages diverted to the Caspian, 81 thousand tons of 

repugnant substances, including 58 thousand tons of hydrocarbons emitted in 2003. Presently, 

pollution of the environment is ongoing due to overdepreciation and obsolescence of oil 

mining and treatment facilities. 

Oil & gas extraction enterprises intermediately impact upon environmental components and 

other industry branches. Pollution of sea waters adversely impact to its fauna and flora and 

restricts shipping and fishery in any extent. 

Energy shortage occurs in electricity networks of Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic. 

Therefore, power energy is transmitted from neighbouring Iran and Turkey with intervals. 

Water power station over Araz river constructed jointly with Iran does not satisfy demand 

for energy. Great difficulties emerge in delivery of gas and pit coal fuels because of being 

under blockade condition of the region by Armenia Republic. 

No any oil are not extracted in Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic, but geological 

prospecting works conducted in many areas of the region proved existence of oil hereof. 

Presently, capital works are planned to be started in this sphere. 

3.2.8. Transport 

Rise in transportation volume through International Eurasia transport corridor functioning 

within the framework of TRASECA programme, increased number of transport enterprises 

and individuals engaged in automobile transport as well as growth in industry, agriculture, 

construction and other major production lines of the country in comparison with the previous 

years, seriously effect to development of transport. 

Number of transport enterprises which recorded at State Register of accounting units as legal 

entities, increased as 1.7% in comparison with the previous year totalled to 1220 and natural 

persons engaged in automobile transport without establishment of legal entity totalled to 

40000 by increasing as 28.4% up to January 1, 2009. 

Number of vehicles existing in the republic increased as 860.1 thousand in 2008 or as 348.6 

thousand in comparison with 2003. 81.4% of vehicles is shared by cars, 13.1% by trucks, 

3.4% by buses and remaining part by other automobiles. Number of private cars subject to per 

hundreds families equalled to 36 in the past year. Cargo transportation by legal entities and 

natural persons working for transport sector in 2001 increased as 183.1 million tons or 66.4% 

in comparison with 2003. 

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Rehabilitation of ancient Silk Way is one of the successful milestones during independency of 

our country. Creation of favorable condition in useful and safe transportation and delivery of 

cargo on mutual basis among countries of Asia-Caucasus-Europe since 1996 continued its 

good outcomes in the past years and it has become a corridor could compete with regional 

transport corridors and, remained to be one of key factors seriously effecting upon 

development of countrywide economy and forming of ground transport complex. Cargo 

transportation through the corridor increased as 19.0%, transit cargo transportation as 37.3% 

and amount of income generated from cargo transportations increased as 29% in 2008 in 

comparison with 2003. 

It should be noted that emissions from motor transport are dominant in pollution of 

countrywide atmosphere. 642 thousand tons or 70% of overall volume of noxious emissions 

generated from automobile transport. 

Density of transport routes and construction of highways and pipelines result in fragmentation 

of living circumstances and it impacts upon protection and recovery of biological diversity . 

(Annex 7.1) 

3.2.9. Tourism 

Azerbaijan is a country possesses rich nature, historical and cultural potential for development 

of tourism. Azerbaijan became a place could cause to keen interest of both internal and 

foreign tourists during the Soviet regime. There were various sites serving for tourists in 

majority regions of the republic. But such sites became unserviceable due to uncared attitude 

until the last years, approximate 30% of tourist sites were out of order and 60% of them were 

settled by the refugees. 

However, favorable natural climate condition and enrichment of cultural-historical sites of the 

republic as well as rapid development of tourism infrastructure and services to the level of 

worldwide standards led to yearly growth of number of the tourists arriving in the country and 

thus, tourism has become one of the priority lines of the country economy. 

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism executes state tourism policy in the country. “State 

Programme on Tourism Development for 2002-2005 years” was compiled and implemented 

successfully by this body in 2002. Considering prospectivity of this sphere and in view of 

enhancement of tourist flows to the country in future, “State Programme on Tourism 

Development for 2009-2013 years” has been compiled as a continuance of reforms and 

presently, it is under ratification. Besides, according to proper Decree of the President of 

Azerbaijan Republic there established special tourism and recreation zones in order to 

integrate internal tourism market into international tourism market. 

Several exhibitions are held for organization of countrywide tourism propaganda and 

involvement of foreign investors to this sector and thematic publications are issued to 

introduce local traditions, national kitchen and cultural-national heritage. Tourism Institute 

was established 

in 2006, then regularly working courses on different professions were arranged attached to it 

and furthermore, various training programmes are implemented under support of the World 

Trade Organization and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Turkey in order to raise 

qualification and upgrade professional skills of employees working for tourism. 

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At the present, more than 300 hotels and inns and more than 250 tourism centers work for the 

country. Significant works are carried out towards construction of hotel centers meeting 

international standards and, improvement of service quality. Number of foreign citizens who 

visit to our country, rises up every year. Number of persons arriving in the country totalled to 

two millions in 2008 that it is higher as 42% in comparison with 2007. 

International experience and practice are used for achievement of the successes planned on 

tourism. So that there signed agreements on tourism cooperation with 20 countries and such 

draft agreements with 27 countries are discussed. Azerbaijan cooperates with many 

international regional organizations on tourism, including the World Tourism Organization, 

Islamic Conference Organization, Economic Cooperation Organization, Organisation of 

Economic Cooperation and Development, Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization, 

GUAM and Tourism Council of the CIS member nations. 

Picture 

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Chapter 4. Conclusions: Progress Towards 

the 2010 Target and Implementation of the 

Strategic Plan 

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4.1. Protected areas system 



4.1.1. Description of status, location and scope of protected areas 

Pursuant to legislation of Azerbaijan Republic, protected areas and sites are national wealth of 

Azerbaijan Republic and cover natural complexes having specific ecologic, scientific and 

aesthetic value. 

Protected areas of Azerbaijan Republic differed in conservation goals and usage features are 

assigned the following status: 

- state nature reserves, including biosphere reserves 

- national and natural parks 

- ecological parks 

- natural monuments 

- state nature sanctuaries 

- zoological parks 

- botanical and dendrological parks 

- sanatoria and resorts. 

Activity of the existing protected areas necessitates execution of the scientific, conservative 

and tourism designated functions that it constitutes basis of activity of the same areas and 

their institutional commitments. 

According to the Law №840/IG dated March 14, 2000 “On protected areas and sites” of 

Azerbaijan Republic: 

State nature reserves - areas having status of nature conservative and scientific-research 

institutions, which established for the purpose of preservation of typical and exotic natural 

complexes and sites in natural condition and study of progress of natural processes and 

occurrences. Functions of the state nature reserves are as follows: 

- to carry out conservation of natural areas in order to preserve natural condition of genebank, 

biological diversity, ecological systems, natural complexes and sites; 

- to organize and conduct scientific researches and to compile “Nature chronicle”; 

- to implement ecological monitoring within the framework of state monitoring of the 

environment and natural resources; 

- to participate in state ecological expertise of location designs and schemes of farming areas 

and other facilities; 

- to assist in training of scientific personnel and specialists on environmental protection and 

nature conservation. 

National parks - areas having status of nature conservative and scientific-research institutions 

where natural complexes of preferential ecological, historical, aesthetic and likewise 

importance located on and, used for nature conservative, enlightenment, scientific, cultural 

and other purposes. Functions of the national parks are as follows: 

- to preserve natural complexes, exotic and standard natural zones, historical-cultural sites; 

- to create opportunities for tourism and rest (recreation); 

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- to develop and apply scientific methods of nature conservation and ecological 

enlightenment; 

- to enlighten the population from ecological standpoint; 

- to implement ecological enlightenment; 

- to restore the damaged natural and historical-cultural complexes and sites. 

State natural sanctuaries - areas of particular importance for protection or restoration of 

natural complexes and or their components as well as for maintenance of ecological balance. 

State natural sanctuaries can be organized in land plots of owners, users and tenants without 

disappropriation of them in a manner provided by the legislation. Functions of the state 

natural sanctuaries are as follows: 

- to protect or restore natural complexes and or their components; 

- to maintain ecological balance; 

- to ensure adherence to restrictions set in farming activity of land owners, users and tenants 

depending on establishment profile (objective); 

- to implement scientific, cultural, educational and limited farming activities. 

First preservations, i.e. Goygol, Zagatala and Gizilaghaj state nature reserves were established 

in 30 th years of the last century in order to protect charming nature of Azerbaijan. Adoption of 

“Law on Azerbaijan Nature Conservation” in 1969 caused a rise in number and growth of the 

reserves in our country. As a result, additional 6 other protected areas - Shirvan, Basitchay, 

Garayazi, Aghgol, Ismayilly, Ilisu and Altiaghaj state nature reserves were established. 

It should be noted that there existed 14 state nature reserves and 20 state nature sanctuaries 

with total area of 478000 ha in the territory of our country till 2001. 

For conformity with up-to-date requirements of protected areas system in the Republic, 

conservation of all necessary ecosystems and key species and creation of buffers and 

protective zones, departments and administrations at status of National Park have been 

established since 2003 for the first time in the country history through more sustainable 

actions within the last years. Actions carried on enhancement and expansion of Protected 

Areas since 2003 were continued according to “Towards effective protected areas system - A 

guide for action on implementation of PAs Work Programme of Convention of Biological 

Diversity” and presently, there exist protected areas at total 876236.1 ha, including 8 National 

Parks, 11 state nature reserves and 24 state nature sanctuaries in our country. 

Coverage of Protected Areas of Azerbaijan Republic 

(ha) 

361980 

102 

218335.2 

295920.90 

National Parks State Nature Reserves State Nature Sanctuaries 

2009



Moreover, Gobustan state nature reserve and Baku Seaside National Park (area of 80 ha) are 

functioning, there exist 2083 centennial trees, 37 geological and paleontological sites and 15 

thousand ha endemic and valuable forest lands. 

While speaking on countrywide protected areas and their potential it should be noted 

regretfully that Basitchay and Gara-gol state nature reserves, Dashalty, Lachin, Gubadly, 

Arazboyu state nature sanctuaries and a number of valuable and exotic natural monuments left 

uncared in the territories of our republic, which occupied as a consequence of armenian 

aggression. There are hundreds of centennial trees, 13197.5 ha valuable forestries, 6 

geological sites in the conserved regions with total area of 44.3 thousand ha which undergone 

occupation and are being destroyed by armenian plunderers savagely. 

Brief information on national parks and state nature reserves of Azerbaijan Republic 

Shirvan National Park 

Established at 54373.5 ha in administrative areas of Garadagh district of Baku, Salyan and 

Neftchala regions on July 5, 2003. Shirvan National Park is located at 54373.5 ha of protected 

area overall 65580.0 ha in south-eastern Shirvan plain of Kura-Araz lowland, Shirvan State 

Nature Reserve at 6232.0 ha and Bandovan State Nature Sanctuary at 4930.0 ha. 

Key objective in establishment of National Park aims to conserve semidesert landscape, 

gazelles included in the Red Book of Azerbaijan Republic and fauna species specific for the 

area. 

Aghgol National Park 

Established at 17924 ha in administrative areas of Aghjabedi and Beylagan regions on July 5, 

2003. Shirvan National Park is located at 54373.5 ha. 

Aghgol was included in “Ramsar List” of Ramsar Convention on wetlands of international 

importance as main habitats of water birds, being wintering place of migratory bird species as 

significant wetland. 

Hirkan National Park 

Established on February 9, 2004. The National Park is located in south-eastern of 

Azerbaijan, i.e. in administrative areas of Lankaran and Astara regions. Its area is 40358 

ha. Main purpose in establishment of National Park aims at complex protection of nature in 

the same area and conservation of unique relic and endemic plant species of III era. 

Altiaghaj National Park 

Established in administrative areas of Khizi and Siyazan regions on August 31, 2004. Its area 

is 11035 ha. 

Main purpose in establishment of the National Park aims at conservation of natural 

landscapes, flora and fauna species of south-eastern slopes of Great Caucasus. 

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2009

Absheron National Park 



Established at 783 ha in administrative area of Azizbayov district of Baku city on February 8, 

2005. The National Park is located in south-eastern end of Absheron peninsula - Shah Dili 

area. 

Main purpose in establishment of Absheron National Parks aims at conservation of rare 

nature complexes, sites, Khazar seal, gazelle and wetlands. 

Shahdagh National Park 

Established in administrative areas of Guba, Gusar, Ismayilly, Gabala, Oghuz and Shamakhy 

regions on December 8, 2006. Its area totals to 115895 ha. Ismayilly and Pirgulu State Nature 

Reserves were included in area of the National Park. 

Objective in establishment of Shahdagh National Park is to restore and protect globally 

important mountain forests and pasture ecosystem located in uplands including multiple 

endemic and endangered species and transboundary migratory animals. 

Goygol National Park 

Established in administrative areas of Khanlar, Dashkasan and Goranboy regions on April 1, 

2008. Its area totals to 12755 ha. 

The National Park was established for the purpose of conservation of typical landscape, fauna 

and flora of Little Caucasus. 

Gizilaghaj State Nature Reserve 

Established on July 3, 1929. Its area is 88360 ha. There exists Little Gizilaghaj State Nature 

Sanctuary at 10.7 thousand ha area together with the reserve. 

Main purpose in establishment of the reserve aims at creation of favorable condition for study 

of natural complex in the area, protection and growth in number of wildlife inhabited here. 

Gizilaghaj State Nature Reserve was included in “Ramsar List” of Ramsar Convention on 

wetlands of international importance as main habitats of water birds in 1976 and therefore, it 

is considered to be internationally important reserve. 

Considering possible attraction of multiple local and foreign tourists to the area by variety of 

the reserve nature and richness of flora and mainly of fauna, it is planned to establish first 

seaside national park at the area of approximate 100000 ha on the basis of the reserve in the 

future. 

Zagatala State Nature Reserve 

Established in administrative areas of Zagatala and Balakan regions in 1929. Its area totals to 

47349 ha. 

Main purpose in establishment of Zagatala State Nature Reserve aims at conservation of 

natural complex, flora and fauna of south slope of Great Caucasus. 

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Turyanchay State Nature Reserve 



Established on May 6, 1958. Its area is 22488 ha. The reserve is located in administrative 

areas of Aghdash, Oghuz, Yevlakh and Gabala regions. 

Objective in establishment of Turyanchay State Nature Reserve is to protect one of arid forest 

areas, i.e. Bozdagh arid forest landscape complex being the principal one. 

Shirvan State Nature Reserve 

Established in administrative areas of Salyan and Neftchala regions on April 30, 1969. Its area 

is 6232 ha. 

Objective in organization of the reserve is to conserve and rehabilitate gazelles included in the 

Red Book of Azerbaijan Republic and other fauna species specific for this area. The reserve is 

functioning in the composition of Shirvan National Park. 

Basitchay State Nature Reserve 

Established in administrative area of Zangilan region on July 4, 1974. Its area totals to 107 ha. 

It was arranged for conservation of rare natural plane forest. 

The reserve is under occupation of armenian aggressors presently and rare natural plane trees 

located in the reserve area are savagely cut off by the armenians. 

Garayazy State Nature Reserve 

Established in administrative area of Gazakh region on March 2, 1978. The area is 9658 ha. 

Nature complex of well-known tugai (riparian) forests is protected in the reserve. 

Ilisu State Nature Reserve 

Established in administrative area of Gakh region on February 20, 1987. Area of the reserve is 

17381.5 ha. 

Objective in organization of the reserve is to conserve and restore natural complex. 

Garagol State Nature Reserve 

Established in administrative area of Lachin region on October 17, 1987. The area totals to 

240 ha and is one of the high mountainous lakes being particularly interesting. Alp has 

landscape complex. This lake is characterized in important hydrological and economy. 

The reserve is under occupation of armenian aggressors presently. 

Eldar Shamy State Nature Reserve 

Established in administrative area of Samukh region on December 16, 2004. The area covers 

1686 ha. 

Objective in establishment of the reserve is to conserve rare Eldar shamy forest. 

State Nature Reserve for Mud volcanoes range of Baku and Absheron peninsula 

105 

2009



Established on August 15, 2007. 52 mud volcanoes were titled as state nature reserve. 

Objective in establishment of the reserve is to organize elimination of anthropogen impacts 

upon mud volcanoes and protection of them which located in Baku and Absheron 

peninsula. 

Korchay State Nature Reserve 

Established in administrative area of Goranboy region on April 1, 2008. The area covers 

4833.6 ha. 

Objective in establishment of the reserve is to conserve rare animal and bird species. 

There created Zangazur National Park named after academician Hasan Aliyev on the basis of 

Ordubad National Park and Shahbuz State Nature Reserve on November 25, 2009. Area of 

National Park is 42797.4 ha. 

Alongside with National Park, Ordubad State Nature Sanctuary is located in 27870.0 ha of the 

protected area. 

Objective in establishment of Zangazur National Park aims at protection of separate 

components in the area, availability of the unique climate, relief and other physicalgeographical 

features and conservation of various animals, including endemic species. 

There created Arpachay State Nature Sanctuary in 68911 ha area of Sharur region on June 26, 

2009. 

Objective at establishment of Protected Areas aimed to protect rich and endemic vegetation 

and wildlife. 

(Appendix 3) 

4.1.2. Evaluation of gaps in protected areas system 

Gaps existing in protected areas of Azerbaijan Republic are as follows: 

a) uncontrolled existence and destruction of Basitchay and Garagol State Nature 

Reserves, Dashalty, Lachin, Gubadly, Arazboyu State Nature Sanctuaries, more than 

150 centennial trees, 13197.5 ha valuable forestries and 6 geological sites in the 

occupied territories of our republic caused by Armenian aggression; 

b) development of countrywide livestock farming, especially sheep-breeding and 

subsequently, appearance of facts of illegal grazing in PAs because of need for pasture 

lands (number of countrywide sheep exceeds 8 millions); 

c) low level knowledge of conservation employees, lack of highly educated personnel, 

including scientific workers due to insufficiency of salaries and wages; 

d) non-availability of vehicles (car, marine transport and horse) for efficient organization 

of the conservation as a result of shortage in supply of all PAs with vehicles; 

e) absence of air transport means for inventory taking of wild animals in PAs and 

operative organization of conservation work and lack of proper funds for their lease 

hereof; 

f) noncompletion of infrastructure building fully up today and lack of management plans 

and modern radio receiver sets in major PAs notwithstanding there carried out largescale 

actions towards creation of necessary infrastructure in PAs within the last years; 

106 

2009



g) driving of livestock and cattle into the area and coming of people hereof for the 

purpose of recreation, hunting and wood procurement due to absence of border marks 

in major parts of PAs boundaries and nondigging of protection trenches in necessary 

parts; 

h) weakly organization of enlightenment of local communities living in frontier with PAs 

and absence of interest for them in protection of these areas; 

i) low level knowledge of specialists for arrangement of ecotourism in National Parks 

and poor necessary conditions for tourists in recreational zones and etc. 

In Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic a number of villages are located along the borders of 

the protected areas, and summer pastures near Zangazur National Park and Ordubad State 

Nature Sanctuary are significantly overgrazed, being used by up to 250,000 head of livestock 

each year. 

4.2. Conservation outside Protected Areas 

4.2.1. In situ conservation measures in the wider landscape 

The President of Azerbaijan Republic signed a Decree №1152 dated February 18, 2003 

“National Programme on forest renewal and enhancement in Azerbaijan Republic” and 

according to the Decree the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources prepared National 

Programme on forest renewal and enhancement by involving state and local self-governing 

bodies and scientific organizations. There carried out actions for forest renewal and 

reafforestation at 69700 ha area under the Programme. 66400 ha of them are shared by the 

Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources. 

There established regional forest seed orchards such as Absheron, Guba and Kura (Hajigabul) 

in order to create plant materials containing various trees and shrubs required for 

establishment of protective forest lands in Caspianside sandy places. More than 21 million 

various trees and shrubs were cultivated in the above regional forest seed orchards from their 

establishment time up today. The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources carried out 

reafforestation works at total 60674 ha area from its establishment time up today that 24132 

ha are shared by newly planted forests. At the same time, total 200 million plant materials 

were cultivated in various cultivars and strains comprised by trees and shrubs within this 

period. Seed harvesting totalled to 1155 tons. 

Moreover, launching of National Monitoring system on 2001 aims at collection of 

environmental monitoring data and tracking of processes in water basins, soil and atmosphere 

and, assessment of anthropogenous impacts upon the environment. The Ministry of Ecology 

and Natural Resources has created special network engaged in collection of information and 

data on biodiversity monitoring, i.e. vegetation and forests and animal population within this 

structure. 

4.2.2. Ex situ conservation 

In general, there is little ex-situ propagation or reintroduction of rare native species in 

Azerbaijan, despite recent efforts to improve the situation including legislation to support exsitu 

conservation 39 . In particular, there is a real lack of local expertise in ex-situ conservation. 

39 Presidential Decree No 675 IQ (1999) and Cabinet of Ministers Decree No 117 (2000) 

107 

2009



There is a need to develop a coherent strategy for ex-situ conservation, captive breeding and 

reintroduction in Azerbaijan, in line with international (IUCN) guidelines. As a start, laws are 

currently in force, that protect threatened species from unlicensed collection for unofficial 

breeding or propagation programmes. 

Plant propagation and botanic gardens 

The main collection and site for plant propagation in Azerbaijan is the Mardakan Tree 

Nursery, which was established in 1926 on a 12 ha site on the Absheron Peninsula, 40km 

from Baku. This garden hosts a wide collection of specimens, both of exotic and native 

species. 


Captive breeding 

The main centre for captive breeding in Azerbaijan is at the Baku City Zoological Park, which 

has a collection of nearly 200 different species. The zoo is active, and the size of collections 

has grown over the period 2001 to 2003. The collection includes a number of species that are 

listed on the Azerbaijan Red Book, including Mediterranean turtle (Testudo graeca), greater 

flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus), Dalmatian pelican (Pelecanus crispus), purple gallinule 

(Porphyrio porphyrio), mute swan (Cygnus olor), tawny eagle (Aguila rapax), Peregrine 

falcon (Falco peregrinus), lammergeier (Gypaetus barbatus), and goitred gazelle (Gazella 

subgutturosa). 

In addition, the zoo is actively involved in breeding a number of animals, including native 

species such as European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis), Mediterranean turtle (Testudo 

graeca), Caspian gecko (Cyrtopodion caspius), Griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus), purple gallinule 

(Porphyrio porphyrio), golden jackal (Canis aureus), wolf (Canis lupus), badger (Meles 

meles), and goitred gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa). 

According to the Decree №109 dated 26, 2008 of the President of Azerbaijan Republic, works 

are ongoing towards creation of Zoological Park to the extent of 200 ha area responding the 

highest standards by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources. 

4.3. Organizations involved in biodiversity conservation 

and management 

4.3.1. Government structures and agencies 

The underlying legislative base pertaining to conservation of biological resources is 

developed by the Milli Mejlis (Parliament). Under this framework, a number of government 

institutions exist which contribute to the delivery of environmental policy. 

• The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources. Established by Presidential Decree in 

2001, the Ministry manages forestry and hunting activities (including oversight of hunting 

quotas and permits), oversees protection and rehabilitation of fish stocks (and other 

aquatic bioresources) in marine and freshwater habitats, and is also responsible for 

biodiversity conservation. It develops strategies for long-term and short-term approaches 

to sustainable development and sustainable use of biological resources. The activity of the 

Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources is divided into six areas: (i) ecological policy 

development; (ii) ecological protection; (iii) water monitoring and management; (iv) 

108 

2009



protection of marine (Caspian) bioresources; (v) forest management; and (vi) protected 

areas. Further information about the work of the Ministry can be found on their website 

(www.eco.gov.az). 

• The Ministry of Agriculture. As a major land user and the biggest user of water 

resources in the country (using 75% of supplies) agriculture has a significant impact on 

biodiversity. The Ministry of Agriculture carries out work on plant protection and on the 

rural environment. It runs a number of research institutes, focusing on crop and vegetable 

cultivation, horticulture, cultivation of cotton, grapes and fodder and livestock breeding, 

In addition, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Tourism, and the State 

Committee of Land and Cartography conduct some activities which are relevant to 

biodiversity conservation. Other relevant state organizations include: 

• State Commission of Genetic Resources on Biodiversity. This was established by 

Presidential Decree in December 2002, to implement measures in line with Azerbaijan’s 

commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity in order to prevent the loss of 

genetic resources of plants, animals and microorganisms. 

• National Academy of Sciences. This is key national scientific research organization, and 

operates a series of research institutes, many of which conduct work relevant to 

biodiversity conservation (including, among others, the Institutes of Geography, Botany, 

Zoology, Genetic Resources, Microbiology, Oil-Chemistry Processes and Soil Research). 

Further information about the work of the ANAS can be found on their website 

(www.science.az). 

4.3.2. Non-governmental organisations 

At present there are over 60 ecological NGOs and associations, of which up to 30 are on 

biodiversity (See Annex 9.2). Among these are scientific groups undertaking basic 

biodiversity research (such as the Society of Botanists, the Society of Zoologists, the Society 

of Geographers, the Society of Mammologists and the Azerbaijan Centre for the Protection of 

Birds). A number of other NGOs are active in environmental education relating to 

biodiversity, and have an important role in raising public awareness. 

4.3.3. Business and the private sector 

In addition to local private entrepreneurs a number of international corporations operate in the 

Republic of Azerbaijan. Representatives of local private businesses have not yet taken an 

active role in solving environmental problems, mainly due to the relatively early stage of 

business development in Azerbaijan. In general, foreign investors have been more involved in 

ecological protection that the local business sector. In particular, the oil sector (including 

companies such as BP, Exxon Mobil) has been directly involved in biodiversity protection 

activities, as a result of their recognition of both potential corporate impacts and social 

responsibility. 

Of particular note is the work undertaken to date by BP, whose local operation (BP 

Azerbaijan) has developed the Biodiversity Strategy, in full consultation with local 

stakeholders. Under this strategy BP will support both short-term local projects (to be 

delivered by local NGOs under a small grants scheme) and longer-term regional initiatives 

109 

2009



(such as work to rehabilitate Tugai forest along the Kura river), and will also support 

activities to increase public awareness about biodiversity. 

110 

2009

111 



Appendices 

2009



Appendix 1 - Information concerning reporting Party 

Contracting Party Republic of Azerbaijan 

Full name of the institution 

Name and title of contact 

officer 

Mailing address 

NATIONAL FOCAL POINT 

Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of 


Mrs.Sadagat Mammadova 

Head of Sector 

Division of Environment and Nature Protection Policy 

Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources 

B.Aghayev str. 100 A, AZ 1073 

Baku, Republic of Azerbaijan 

Telephone + (994 12) 439 11 11, + (994 12) 492 73 69 

Fax + (994 12) 492 59 07 

E-mail sagagat.biodiv@mail.ru 

CONTACT OFFICER FOR NATIONAL REPORT (IF DIFFERENT FROM ABOVE) 

Full name of the institution 

Name and title of contact 

officer 

Mailing address 

Telephone 

Fax 

E-mail 

Signature of officer 

responsible for submitting 

national report 

Date of submission 

SUBMISSION 

Submitted on the 24 th of February 2010 to the Secretariat of 

CBD 

112 

2009

113 



Appendix 2 - Information concerning the preparation of national 

report 

National Consultants 

The steering committee in the frame of the preparation of the IV National Report consists of 

following members: 

Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Azerbaijan 

Haziyev Mammad 

Ahadov Sabir 

Huseynov Gurbanali 

State Statistic Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan 

Lazimova Rena 

State Land and Cartography Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan 

Amirquluyev Hikmat 

Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Azerbaijan 

Gahramanov Mahir 

Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Azerbaijan 

Division of Law 

Shakaraliyev Teymur 

Bakirov Anar 

Division of Environment and Nature Protection Policy 

Abdulhasanov Mutallim 

Division of Industry Policy 

Orujov Zamin 

Department of Biological Diversity Protection and Specially Protected Nature Areas 

Development 

Alizade Hikmat 

Mammadova Solmaz 

Abdurahmanova Nigar 

Pashayev Jeyhun 

Ismayilov Emin 

Majidov Elshan 

Mustafayev Arzu 

2009

Department of Envionment Protection 

Mammadov Fuzuli 

Department of Reproduction and Protection of Aquatic Bioresources 

Zahidli Gahraman 

Hashimov Tahir 

Department of Forestry Development 

Aliyev Loghman 

Mammadova Gulnare 

National Hidrometeorological Department 

Taghiyeva Umayra 

114 



2009

115 



Appendix 3 – Progress towards Targets of the Global Strategy for 

Plant Conservation and Programme of Work on Protected Areas 

More than 10% of plants in Azerbaijan are considered to be under danger of extinction, 450 

species of them were presented as exotic and extinct species in order to be included in second 

edition of the Red Book of Azerbaijan Republic. (although only 140 of them are mentioned in 

the current Red Book of Azerbaijan 40 ) and three species are listed as globally threatened in 1989 

- Iris acutiloba, Calligonum bakuense and Astragalus bakuenses. In 1982 the government 

recognised that 2,124 plant species in Azerbaijan are rare, endemic, threatened, or of economic 

importance (Government Order number 167). 

Just under 2% of the flora of Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic is listed in the Azerbaijan Red 

Data Book (54 species or subspecies are listed 41 ). In addition, some species have not been found 

in the territory for a number of years and may have become locally extinct 42 . 

Threatened Species recorded from Azerbaijan 43 

Scientific name English and/or Azeri 

Common name(s) 

PLANTS 

Sporophyta – Ferns and horsetails 

Dryopteris raddeana (Fomin) 

(1911) 

Status (IUCN 

and CITES) 

National 

Status 

Радде айыдюшяйи - Included in the 

Red Data Book 

of Azerbaijan. 

Gymnospermae - Gymnosperms 

Pinus eldarica Medw. (1902) Елдар шамы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 

Pinus kochiana Klotzsch ex C. 

Koch, (1849) (Pinus hamata 

(Stev.) Sosn.) 

Кох шамы (гармагвари шам) - 


Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Juniperus foetidissima Willd. Аьырийли ардыж - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Angiospermae - Angiosperms 

Monocotyledonus – Monocotyledons 

Nectaroscordum dioscoridis (Sibth. 

et Smith.) Stank (1966) 

Nectaroscordum tripedale (Trautv.) 

Grossh. (1940) 

Galanthus caucasicus (Baker) 


Рянэли нектароскордум - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Цчфутлу нектороскодум 

- Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Гафгаз хядижяэцлц - Included in the 

Red Data Book 

40 Red Book of Azerbaijan SSR, Published: Ishig, (1989). This classifies species by threat (0-4): extinct, 

endangered, rare, vulnerable or data deficient. 

41 Of particular note are Nectaroscordum tripedale, Ferula oopoda, Stenotaenia daralaghezica, Campanula radula 

and Salsola tamamschjana 

42 For example, Aristolochia bottae, Paeonia tenuifolia, Camranula minesterana and Triticum monococcum 

43 In total 303 species are considered to be nationally or internationally threatened, and these are listed 

here. 

2009

Sternbergia colchiciflora Waldt. et 

Kit. (=S.alexandre Sosn.) (1936) 

Sternbergia fisheriana (Herb.) M. 

Roem. 

Sternbergia lutea (L.) Spreng. 

(1847) 

Danae racemosa (L.) Moench 

(1974) 

Гышда чичякляйян 

штернберэийа, Фишер 

штернберэийасы 

116 





Red Data Book 


Фишер штернберэийасы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Winter daffodil (Сары 

штернберэийа) 


Red Data Book 


Будаглы данайа - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Ruscus hyrcanus Woronow (1907) Щиркан бикявяри - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Crocus caspius Fisch. et Mey. 

(1838) 

Gladiolus halophilis Boiss. et 

Heldr. (1853) 

Iridodictyum reticulatum (Bieb.) 

Rodionenko=Iris reticulata Bieb. 

(1808) 

Хязяр зяфяраны - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Шоран гарьасоьаны - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Торлу иридодиктиум - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Iris acutiloba C. A. Mey. (1831) Итикянарлы сцсян - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Iris camillae Grossh. Камилла сусяни - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Iris elegantissima Sosn. (1915) Гяшянэ сцсян - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Iris grossheimii Woronow ex 


Гроссщейм сцсяни - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Iris iberica Hoffm. (1806-08) Эцржц сцсяни - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Iris lycotis Woronow (1915) Гурдгулаьы сцсян - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Iris paradoxa Stev. (1820) Парадоксал сцсян - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Iris prilipkoana Kem.-Neth. Прилипко сцсяни - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Fritillaria grandiflora Grossh. 

(1919) 

Lilium ledebourii (Baker) Boiss. 

(1884) 

Merendera candissima Micz. et 


Muscari elegantissimum Schchian 

(1947) 

Иричичяк лалявяр - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Ледебун замбаьы Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Аьаран данагыран - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Гяшянэ илансоьаны - Included in the 

Red Data Book 

2009

Ornithogalum hyrcanum Grossh. 

(1929) 




Щиркан хынжалаусу - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Scilla atropatana Grossh. (1935) Атропатен зцмрцдчичяйи - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Tulipa biebersteiniana Schult.et 

Schull. Fil. (1829) 

Биберштейн даьлалялси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Tulipa florenskyi Woronow (1924) Флоренски даьлаляси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Tulipa julia C.Koch (1948) Йулийа даьлаляси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Tulipa karabachеnsis Grossh. 

(1936) 

Гарабаь даьлаляси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Tulipa schimidtii Fomin (1909) Шмит даьлаляси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Tulipa eichleri Regel. ейхлер даьлаляси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Cеphalanthеra longifolia (L.) 

Fritsch. (1888) 

Himantoglossum formosuм (Stcv.) 

C.Koch = Loroglossum formosum 

Stеv. (1908) 

Limodorum abortivum (L.) SW 

(1799) 

Узунйарпаг тозбаш сящляб - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Гяшянэ гайышлячяк - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Натамам лимодорум - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Orchis purpurea Huds.(1762) Фырфыр сящляб - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Ophrys caucasica Woronow ex 

Grossh. 

Steveniella satyrioides (Stev.) 

Schlechter (1918) 

Paeonia mlokoscwilschii Lomak 

(1897) 

Гагаз гаш сящляби - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Сатириодвари стевениелла - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Млокосевиж пиону - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Ammochloa palaestina Boiss. (1853) Фялястин гумоту - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Avena ventricosa Bal. (1854) Шишкин вялямир, Шишкин 

щажагуйруг 

Stipa pellita (Trin, el Rupr.) Tzvel. 

(1966) 

117 


Red Data Book 


Тукжцклц шийав - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Triticum monococcum L. (1753) Тякдянли бцьда - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Dicotyledonae – Dicotyledons 

Dorema glabrum Fisch. et Mey. Dorema (Чылпаг дорема) - Included in the 

2009



(1835) Red Data Book 


Caropodium platycarpum (Boiss et 

Hanskn.) Schishk. 

Ferula caspica Bieb. = F. caucasica 

Korov. (1808) 

Ferula oopoda (Boiss. et Buhse) 

Boiss. (1872) 

Орагмейвя капоподиум - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Гафгаз илaнкюлэяси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Йумуртавари иланкюлжяси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Ferula persica Willd.(1797) Иран иланкюлэяси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Ferula szowitsiana D. C. Шовитс иланкюлэяси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Smyrniopsis oneberi Boiss. (1936) Оше лялякливяси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Stenotaenia macrocarpa Freyn et 

Sinl. ex Freyn. = S. daralaghezica 

(Takhl.) Schischk. (1949) 

Иримейвя стенотенийа - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Ilex hyrcana Pojark. (1947) Щиркан шцмшяси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Hedera pastuchowii Woronow 

(1932) 

Aristolochia bottae Jaub. et Spach 

(1842-43) 

Cladochaeta candissima (Bieb.) DC. 

(1837) 

Пастухов дашсармашыьы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Ботта зярвянди - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Парлаг кладохета - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Gundelia tournefortii L. (1753) Турнефор гунделийасы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Lactuca takhtadzhianii Sosn. Тахтажан сцдлямяси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Pyrethrum komarovii Sosn. (1945) Камаров биряоту - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Pyrethrum kotschyi Boiss. (1855) Кочи биряоту - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Scorzonera grossheimii Lipsch. et 

Vass. 

Гроссщейм тякясаггалы, кечи 

йемлийи 

Scorzonera pulchra Lomak. (1897) Эюзял тякясаггалы, кечи 

йемлийи 

118 


Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 


Scorzonera pusilla Pall. (1804) Кичик тякясаггалы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Telekia speciosa Schred.) 

Baumg.(1816-46) 

Эюзял телекийа - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Alnus subcordata C. M. Mey. Црякйарпаг гызылаьаж - Included in the 

2009

(1831) 



Red Data Book 


Betula raddeana Trautv.(1887) 

Радде тозаьажы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Physoptychis caspica (Habl.) V. 

Boczan.= P. gnaphalodes (DC) 

Boiss. (1867) 

Pseudovesicaria digitata (C. A. 

Mey.) Rupr.(1869) 

Buxus sempervirens L. = B. colchica 

Pojark.+ B. hyrcana Pojark.(1907) 

Gleditsia caspia Desf.(1809) 

Campanula radula Fisch. ex Tchih. 

(1860) 

Euonymus velutina Fisch. et Mey 

(1838) 

Anabasis brachiata Fisch. et Mey. 

ex Kar. et Kir. (1842) 

Хязяр бозговаж - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Бармагвари говаг - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Common box (Щямишяйашыл 

шумшад) 

119 

LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 


Red Data Book 


Каспи, Хязяр шейтанаьажы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Шцалы зянэчичяйи - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Мяхмяри эярмяшов - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Шамданвари юлдцрэян - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Anabasis eugeniae lljin (1937) Йевэени юлдцрэяни - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Corylus colurna L.=C. cervorum 

V.Petrov.(1936) 

Diospyros lotus L.(1753) 

Rhododendron caucasicum Pall. 

(1784) 

Turkish hazelnut (Марал 

фындыьы) 


Red Data Book 


Date plum (Гафгаз хурмасы) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Гафгаз ханымяли - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Rhododendron luteum Sweet (1830) Сары ханымяли - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Euphorbia grossheimii Prokh.(1930) Гроссщейм сцддцйяни - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Astragalus bakuensis Bunge (1868) Бакы эявяни - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Astragalus nachitschevanicus Rzazade 

(1954) 

Нахчыван эявяни - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Astragalus kubensis Grossh. (1933) Губа эявяни - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Astragalus paradoxus Bunge (1859) Гярибя эявяни - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Astragalus prilipkoanus Grossh. 

(1936) 

Castanea sativa Mill. 

Прилипко эявяни - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


European chestnut (Ади - Included in the 

2009

Quercus boissieri Reult.=Q. araxina 

(Traulv.) Grossh. (1930) 

Quercus castaneifolia 

C.A.Mey.(1831) 

Platanus orientalis L. Oriental planetree (шярг 

чинары) 

Gentiana lagodochiana 

(Kusn.)Grossh. (1932) 

Globularia trichosantha Fisch.et 

Mey.(1879) 

Parrotia persica (DC.) C.A.Mey. 

(1831) 

шабалыд) 



Red Data Book 


Боасийе палыды, Араз палыды - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Шабалыдйарпаг палыд - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


120 


Red Data Book 


Лaгодех ажычичяйи - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Дарлячяк глобуларийа - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Дямираьажы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Anogramma leptophylla (l.) Link Назикйарпаг анограмма - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Hypericum formossimum Takht. Эюзял дазы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Pterocarya pterocarpa (Michx.) 

Kunth exI.Iljinsk.(1824) 

Acantholimon schemachense 


Acantholimon tenuiflorum Boiss. 

(1846) 

Ганадмейвя йалангоз - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Шамахы тыс-тысы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Назикчичяк тыс-тыс - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Alcea kusariensis (Iljin) Iljin ((1949) Гусар эцлхятми - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Alcea lenkoranica Iljin (1949) Лянкяран эцлхятми - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Alcea sachsachanica Iljin (1940) Саьсаьан эцлхятми - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Marsilea strigosa Willd. Сярттцклц марсилийа - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Ficus hyrcana Grossh. Щиркан янжири - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Albizia julibrissin Durazz. (1772) 

Nelumbo caspica (DC) Fisch. 

(Nelumbium caspica (DC.) Fisch.) 

(1823) 

Nymphaea alba L. (1753) 

Лянкяран эцлябришини, Ипяк 

акасийасы 


Red Data Book 


Шанаэцлля - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


European white waterlily (Аь 

сузанбаьы) 


Red Data Book 


Nymphaea candida J. et C. Persl Гар сузанбаьы - Included in the 

2009



Red Data Book 


Calligonum bakuense Litv. (1922) Бакы жузгуну - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Calligonum polygonoides L. (1753) Гырхбуьум жузгун - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Rheum ribes L. (1973) Гараьат рявянди - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Primula juliae Kusn.(1899) Йулийа новрузчичяйи - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Cyclamen elegans Boiss. et Buhse Зяриф мешяноврузэцлц - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Punica granatum L. Pomegranate (Ади нар) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Anemone kuznetzowii Woronow 

et Grossh.(1930) 

Frangula grandiflora (Fisch. el 

Mey.) Grub.(1949) 

Кузнетсоv ясмяси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Ирийарпаг кювряк мцрдяшир - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Coteneaster saxatilis Pojark. (1938) Гайа довшаналмасы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Laurocerasus officinalis M. 

Roem.(1847) 

Padus avium Miel.=P. racemosa 

(Lam.) Gilib.(1785) 

Дярман дяфняэилянары - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Гуш мешяэиласы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Pyrus boissierana Buhse(1860) Буасийе армуду - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Pyrus eldarica Grossh.(1944) Елдар армуду - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Pyrus hyrcana Fed.(1952) Щиркан армуду - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Rosa pulverulenta Bieb. (Rosa 

azerbajdzhanica Novopokr.et Rzazade(1947)) 

Pyracantha coccinea (L.) M. Roem. 

(1847) 

Азярбайжан итбурнусу - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Scarlet firethorn (Гырмызы 

тубульа) 

121 


Red Data Book 


Rosa karjaginii Sosn.(1944) 

Гарйаэин итбурну - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Rosa nisami Sosn.(1944) Низами итбурну - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Rosa canina L. (Rosa sosnovskyi 

Chrishan.(1951)) 

Dog rose (Итбурну) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Salix kuznetzowii Laksch ex Kuznetsov’s willow (Кузнетсов - Included in the 

2009

Goerz. сюйцдц) 



Red Data Book 


Atropa caucasica Kreyer (1925) Caucasian belladonna (Гафгаз 

ханымоту) 

122 


Red Data Book 


Staphylea colchica Stev. Колхида Стафуласы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Taxus baccata L. English yew (эиляли 

гаражющря) 

Daphne transcaucasica Pobed. Transcaucasian daphne 

(загафгазийа жанаварэиляси). 

Stelleropsis magakjanii (Sosn.) 

Pobed. . (1940) 


Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 


Магакйан жинжилимжяси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Trapa hyrcana Woronow(1917) Щиркан суфындыьы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Zelkova carpinifolia (Pall.) C.Koch 

(1892) 

Вялясйапаг азат LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 


Red Data Book 


Valeriana alliarifolia Adams (1805) Сарымсагйарпаг пишикоту - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Vitis sylvestris C.C.Gmel. (1905) Мешя цзцмц - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Woodsia alpina R. Br. (1823) Alpine woodsia, Northern 

woodsia, Woodsie alpine (Алп 

vудйасы) 


Red Data Book 


Lactuca takhtadzhjanii Sosn. (1941) Тахтажан сцдлямяси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Salsola tamamsahjanae Iljin (1936) Тамамшйан шоранэяси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Zeravschania pauciradiata 

(Tamamsch.) M. Pimen. 

(Peuecedanum paucirodiatum Tam. 

(1936)) 

Азшцалы даьчятири - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


ANIMALS 

Phylum: Annelida 

Class: Hirudinoidea 

Order: Arhynchobdellae 

Family: Hirudinidae 

Hirudo medicinalis Linnaeus, 1758 Тибби зяли (Medicinal leech) LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Phylum: Molluska 

Class: Gastropoda 

Order: Stylommatophora 

Family: Vertiginidae 

Vertigo angustior Jeffreys, 1830 Narrow-mouthed Whorl Snail LR/cd 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Vertigo moulinsiana Dupuy, 1849 Des Moulin’s Snail LR/cd 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Phylum Arthropoda 

Class Insecta 

- 

- 

- 

2009

Order Hymenoptera 

Family Apoidae 

Bombus (Mg.) portchinsky 

Radoszkowski, 1883 

Bombus (Th.) mlokosievitzii 


Bombus (Ev.) persicus 


Order: Odonata 

Family: Cordulegastridae 

Cordulegaster mzymtae Bartenev, 

1929 

Family: Gomphidae 

Onychogomphus assimilis 

(Schneider, 1845) 

Portchinskii’s Bumblebee 

(Порчински золаглы арысы) 

Mlokosievitz’s Bumblebee 

(Млокосевич золаглы арысы) 

Persian Bumblebee (Фарс 

золаглы арысы) 

Order Coleoptera 

Family Cerambycidae (Longhorned Beetles) 

Rosalia alpina Linné, 1758 Rosalia longicorn (Алп 

розалийасы) 

123 



- VU B1+2c 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Mallosia scovitzi Fald., 1837 Scovitz’s longhorned beetle 

(Сковитз узунбыьы) 

Purpuricenus talyschensis Reitt., 

1891 

Purple talysh longhorned 

beetle (Тцндгырмызы талыш 

узунбыьы) 

Dorcadion talyschense Gang., 1883 Talysh root-eating longhorned 

beetle (Талыш кюкйейяни) 

Parandra caspia Men., 1832 Caspian parandra (Хязяр 

парандрасы) 

Family Carabidae (Ground Beetles) 

Carabus clypeatus talyschensis 

Men., 1832 

Carabus scabrosus caucasicus 

Adams, 1817 

Talysh three-bladed runner 

(Цчпярли талыш гачаьаны) 

Caucasian splashing snaileater 

(Гафгаз илбизйейян 

фышгырданы) 

Calosoma sycophanta L., 1758 Pretty ground beetle (Гяшянэ 

бюжяк) 

Megacephalus euphraticus Latr., 

1885 

Family Buprestidae (Jewel Beetles) 

Ancylocheria salomoni Thomson, 

1878 

Euphrates runner (Фярят 

чапаьаны) 

Solomon’s jewel beetle 

(Соломон гызыл бюжяйи) 

- VU B1+2c 

ver 2.3 (1994) 


Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 


d- Included in the 

Red Data Book 


VU A1c 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Order: Orthoptera 

Family: Tettigonidae 

Saga pedo (Pallas, 1771) Predatory bush cricket VU B1+2bd 

- 

- 


Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 


ver 2.3 (1994) 

Order Lepidoptera – Butterflies and moths 

Family Papillonidae 

Parnassius apollo L., 1758 Apollo butterfly (Аполлон) VU A1cde 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

- 


Red Data Book 

2009




Parnassius nordmanni Men., 1849 Нордман аполлону - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Zerynthya cericyi caucasica Led., 

1850 

Papilio alexanor orientalis Rom., 

1884 

Гафгаз зеринтийасы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Шярги алексанор йелкянжили - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Anthocharis gruneri Chr., 1870 Шяфягсачан - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Zegris menestho Men., 1832 Ейфема - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Colias thisoa Men., 1832 Алп сарыжасы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Colias caucasica Strgr., 1871 Гафгаз сарыжасы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Colias aurorina H.-S., 1850 Аврорина сарыжасы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Colias chlorocoma Chr., 1888 Кцрд сарыжасы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Danais chrysippus L., 1758 Хризип - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Pararge adrastoides Bien., 1870 Талыш мяхмяри кяпяняйи - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Melanargia hylata Men., 1882 Щилата - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Satyrus alpina Stgr., 1879 Алп сатири - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Thaleropis jonia Fisch., 1851 Ионийа бяргвураны - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Argynnis alexandra Men., 1832 Александра сядяфлиси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Heodes ochimus H.-S., 1851 Охим гызылы кяпяняйи - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Tomares romanovi Ch., 1882 Романов томареси - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Manduca atropos L., 1758 "Кялля шякилли" щаф - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Daphnis nerii L., 1758 Олеандр щафы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Rethera komarovi Chr., 1885 Комаров щафы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 

124 

2009




Hippotion celerio L., 1758 Ири тяняк щафы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Brahmaea christophi Strg., 1885 Талыш брамейасы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Axiopoena maura Eichw., 1832 Тутгун айыжа - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Zygaena Tamara Chr., 1889 

Family: Lycaenidae 

Тамара алажасы - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Lycaena dispar (Haworth, 1802) Large Copper LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

- 

Maculinea arion (Linnaeus, 1758) Large Blue LR/nt 

- 

Maculinea nausithous (Bergstrasser, 

1779) 

Order: Sphingidae 

Hyles hippophaes 

(Esper, 1793) 

Proserpinus proserpina (Pallas, 

1772) 

Phylum Chordata 

Pisces - fish 

Class Cephalaspidomorphi 

Order Petromyzontiformes 

Family Petromyzontidae 

Caspiomyzon wagneri Kessler, 1870 Caspian Lamprey 

(Иланбалыьы) 

125 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Dusky Large Blue LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

- DD 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Willowherb Hawkmoth DD 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Class Actinopterygii - ray-finned fishes 

Order Acipenseriformes 

Family Acipenseridae - Sturgeons 

Acipenser gueldenstaedtii Brandt, Russian Sturgeon (Рус няряси) EN A2d 

1833 

ver 2.3 (1994), 

CITES 

(appendix II) 

Acipenser nudivetntris Fringebarbel sturgeon (Кялямо, 

Гайабалыьы) 


Red Data Book 


EN A1acde+2d 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

CITES 

(appendix II) 

Acipenser persicus Borodin, 1897 Persian sturgeon EN A2d 

ver 2.3 (1994), 

CITES 

(appendix II) 

Acipenser stellatus Pallas, 1771 Starry sturgeon (Узунбурун) EN A2d 

ver 2.3 (1994), 

CITES 

(appendix II) 

Acipenser ruthenus Linnaeus, 1758 Sterlet (Чюкя) VU A1c+2d 

ver 2.3 (1994), 

CITES 

(appendix II) 

Huso huso Linnaeus, 1758 Beluga, European Sturgeon, 

Giant Sturgeon, Great Sturgeon 

(Бюлэя) 

EN A2d 

ver 2.3 (1994), 

CITES 

(appendix II) 

- 

- 

- 

- 


Red Data Book 


- 

- 

- 

- 

2009



Order Salmoniformes 

Family Salmonidae - Salmonids 

Salmo trutta fario Linnaeus, 1758 

Order Clupeiformes 

Brown trout (Гызылхаллы) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Family Clupeidae (Herrings, shads, sardines) 

Clupeonella cultriventris 

Nordmann, 1840 

Black Sea sprat (ади килкя) DD 

ver 2.3 (1994), 

Not included in 

the Red book of 


A. pontиca (A. pontиca kesslerи, A. Волга сийяняйи вя Грабел 

DD 

- 

p. volgensиs) 

Order Cypriniformes 

сийяняк(Pontиc shad) 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Family Cyprinidae (Minnows and carp) 

Abramis sapa Pallas, 1814 White-eye bream (Пору) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Pelecus cultratus Linnaeus, 1758 Ziege (Гылынжбалыг) DD Included in the 

ver 2.3 (1994) Red Data Book 


Rutilus frisii (Nordmann, 1840) 

Фясиля: Cobitidae 

Кцтцм, зийад (Black Sea Roach) DD 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

- 

Sabanejewia aurata (De Filippi, Гызылы илишкян (Goldside 

DD 

- 

1863) 

Order Perciformes 

Family Percidae (Perches) 

Loach) 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Lucioperca marine Cuvier, 1928 Marine Zander (Дяниз сыфы) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Class Amphibia - Amphibians 

Order Caudata 

Family Salamandridae - Salamanders 

Triturus vulgaris Linneus.,1758 (In Smooth Newt (Ади тритон) - Included in the 

Azerbaijan Triturus vulgaris lantzi 

Red Data Book 

threatened) 


Triturus cristatus Laur., 1786 (In Great Crested Newt (Дараглы LR/cd Included in the 

Azerbaijan Triturus cristatus тритон) 

ver 2.3 (1994) Red Data Book 

karelini threatened) 

Order Anura 

Family Pelobatidae 


Pelobates syriacus Boettger., 1889 Eastern Spadefoot (Сурийа 

сарымсагийли гурбаьасы) 

Family Hylidae 

Hyla arborea Common Tree Frog (Ади аьаж 

гурбаьасы) 

Family Pelodytidae 

Pelodytes caucasicus Boul., 1896 Caucasian Parsley Frog (Гафгаз 

хачлыжасы) 

Family Bufonidae - Toads 

Bufo verucosиssma (Pallas,1813) Гафгаз гуру гурбаьасы 

(Caucasиan Toad) 

Class Reptilia - Reptiles 

Order Testudines 

126 


Red Data Book 


LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 


Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 


- 

- 

2009

Family Testudinidae 

Testudo graeca Linnaeus, 1758 Common Tortoise, Greek 

Tortoise, Moorish Tortoise, 

Spur-thigned Tortoise (Аралыг 

Дянизи Тысбаьасы) 

Order Squamata 

Suborder Sauria (Lacertidae)- Lizards 

Family Agamidae - Agamas 

Trapelus ruderatus Rastegar- 

Pouyani, 2000 

Phrynocephalus helioscopus 

Engelmann et al, 1993 

Family Scincidae - Skinks 

Mabuya aurata Greer & 

Nussbaum, 2000 

Ablepharus bivittatus Engelmann 

et al, 1993 

Horn-scaled Agama 

(Харабалыг кялязи) 

Sunwatcher Toadhead Agama 

(Эирдабаш йовшанлыг 

кяртянэяляси) 

Golden Grass Mabuya (Гызылы 

мабуйа) 

Twin-striped Skink (Золаглы 

чылпагэюз кяртянэяля) 

Suborder Ophidia (Serpentes) – Snakes 

Family Colubridae - Colubrids 

Coluber longissimus Laurenti, 1768 Aesculapean Snake (Ескулап 

иланы) 

127 



VU A1cd 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Elaphe situla (Linnaeus, 1758) Leopard snake DD 

Rhynchocalamus melanocephalus 

Engelmann et al, 1993 

Natrix megalocephala Engelmann 

et al, 1993 

Palestine Kukri Snake 

(Гарабаш ринхокаламус) 

Bighead-European Grass 

Snake, Large-headed Water 

Snake 

Vipera raddei raddei Boettger, 1890 Caucasus Viper (Кичик асийа 

эцрзяси) 

Vipera dinniki McDiarmid, 

Campbell & Toure 

Dinnik's Viper VU C1+2a 

ver 2.3 (1994) 


Azerbaijan red 

data book 


Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 


- 

ver 2.3 (1994) 


Red Data Book 


VU A1d, C1 

- 

ver 2.3 (1994) 


Red Data Book 


Class Aves - Birds 

Order Pelecaniformes 

Family Pelecanidae - Pelicans 

Pelecanus onocrotalus Linn.1758 White pelican (Чящрайы гутан) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Pelecanus crispus Bruch, 1832 Dalmatian pelican 

(Гыврымляляк гутан) 

Family Phalacrocoracidae 

Phalacrocorax pygmaeus Pall.,1773 Pygmy cormorant (Кичик 

гарабатдаг) 

Order Ciconiiformes 

Family Threskiornithidae 

LR/cd 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 


red data book 

- 


Red Data Book 


- 

2009

128 



Platalea leucorodia Linn.,1758 Spoonbill (Ярсиндимдик) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Family Ciconidae 

Ciconia nigra Linn.,1758 Black stork (Гара лейляк) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Order Ciconiformes 

Family Phoenicopteridae 

Phoenicopterus ruber Pall., 

Linn.,1758 

Greater flamingo (Гызылгаз) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Order Anseriformes 

Family Anatidae 

Branta ruficollis Pallas., 1769 Brent goose (Гырмызыдюш газ) VU B1+2c 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Anser erythropus Linnaeus, 1758 Lesser white-fronted goose 

(Аьгаш газ) 

VU A1acd+2bcd 

ver 2.3 (1994) 


red data book 


Red Data Book 


- 

Cygnus olor Gm., 1789 Mute swan (Фысылдайан гу) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Cygnus columbianus bewickii 

Varrell, 1830 

Marmaronetta angustirostris 

Menetr.,1832 

Bewick’s swan (Кичик гу) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Marbled teal (Мярмяр жцря) VU A1cd+2cd, 

C1 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Aythya nyroca Guld., 1770 Ferruginous duck (Аьэюз 

дальыж) 

Oxyura leucocephala Scop., 1769 White-headed duck 

(Эюйдимдик) 

LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

EN A1acde 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 


Red Data Book 


- 

Order Falconiformes 

Family Accipitridae 

Pandion haliaetus Linn.,1758 Osprey (Чай гарагушу) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Haliaeetus albicilla Linn.,1758 White-tailed (sea) eagle 

(Аьгуйруг дяниз гарталы) 

LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

- 


Red Data Book 


Accipiter gentilis Linn., 1758 Goshawk (Тетрачалан) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Accipiter badius Gmelin, 1788 Shikra (Тцркцстан тцвцйц) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Aquila nipalensis Temm.,1828 Steppe eagle (Чюл гарталы) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


2009

Aquila clanga Pall.,1811 Greater spotted eagle (Кичик 

гарталча) 

129 



VU C1 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Aquila heliaca Savigny, 1809 Imperial eagle (Мязар гарталы) VU C1 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

- 


Red Data Book 


Aquila chrysaetus Linn.,1758 Golden eagle (Бяргуд) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Gypaetus barbatus Linn.,1758 Lammergeier or Bearded 

vulture (Тоьлуэютцрян) 


Red Data Book 


Aegypius monachus Linn., 1758 Black vulture (Гара кяркяс) LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

- 

Circaetus gallicus Gmelin,1788 Short-toed eagle (Иланйейян) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Circus macrourus Gm., 1771 Pallid harrier (Чюл 

белибаьлысы) 

LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Family Falconidae 

Falco cherrug Gray., 1834 Saker falcon (Цтялэи) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Falco peregrinus Tunstall, 1771 Peregrine (Шащин, лачын) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Falco naumanni Fleischer, 1818 Lesser kestrel (Чюл муймулу) VU A1bce+2bce 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

- 

Order Galliformes 

Family Tetraonidae 

Tetrao mlokosiewiczi Taczan., 1875 Caucasian black grouse 

(Гафгаз тетрасы) 

Tetraogallus caspiсus Gm.,1784 Caspian snowcock (Хязяр 

улары) 

Tetraogallus caucasicus Pall., 1811 Caucasian snowcock (Гафгаз 

улары) 

Family Phasianidae 

Francolinus francolinus Linn.,1758 Black francolin, black partridge 

(Тураж) 

Phasianus colchicus talischensis 

Lor.,1888 

Order Gruiformes 

Family Gruidae 

Pheasant (Гырговулун талыш 

йарымнювц) 

DD 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

- 


Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 


2009



Grus leucogeranus Pall., 1773 Siberian crane (Аь дурна) CR A2cde 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

- 

Crex crex Linn.,1758 Corn crake (Живдимдик) VU A2c 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

- 

Family Rallidae 

Porphyrio porphyrio Linn.,1758 Purple gallinule (Султан 

тойуьу) 

Family Otididae 

Otis tarda Linn.,1758 Great bustard (Довдаг) VU A2c 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Otis tetrax Linn.,1758 Little bustard (Бязэяэ) LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Chlamydotis undulata Jacuin, 1784 Houbara bustard (Эяшянэ 

довдаг, Жек) 

Order Charadriformes 

Family Charadriidae 

Vanellus gregarius Pall., 1771 Sociable plover (Чюкцкбурун 

жцллцт) 

Vanellus (= Chettusia) leucura 

Licht., 1823 

Family Scolopaciadae 

Numenius tenuirostris Vieillot, 

1718 

White-tailed lapwing 

(Аьгуйруг чюкцкбурун) 

Slender-billed curlew (Кичик 

кроншнеп) 

130 


Red Data Book 


LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 


Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 


VU A1ac+2bc, 

- 

C1 

ver 2.3 (1994) 


Red Data Book 


CR C2b, D 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Gallinago media Latham, 1787 Great snipe (Тямбял бекас) LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Family Glareolidae 

Glareola nordmanni Nordm., 1842 Black-winged pratincole (Чюл 

щачагуйруг жцллцтц) 

Order Columbiformes 

Pterocles orientalis Linn., 1758 Black-belled Sandgrouse 

(Гарагарын баьрыгара) 

Order Passeriformes 

Family Turdidae 

Irania gutturals Guerin, 1843 White-throated Robin (Аьбоьаз 

бцлбцл) 

DD 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

- 

- 


Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 


Family Parinae 

Parus hyrcanus Loscot, 1977 Hircan tit (Щиркан arыquшu) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


2009

Rhodopechys githaginea (= 

Bucanetes githagineus) Licht., 1823 

Trumpeter finch (Сящра 

гаргушу) 

Class Mammalia – Mammals 

Order Chiroptera – Bats 

Rhinolophus euryale Blasius, 1835 Mediterranean horseshoe bat 

(жянуб налбуруну) 

Rhinolophus mehelyi Matschie, 

1901 

Mehely’s horseshoe bat 

(Мещели налбуруну) 

131 




Red Data Book 


VU A2c 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

VU A2c 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Rhinolophus blasii Peters, 1866 Blasius’s horseshoe bat LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Rhinolophus ferrumequinum 

Schreber, 1774 

Rhinolophus hipposideros 

Bechstein, 1800 

Greater horseshoe bat LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Lesser horseshoe bat VU A2c 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Miniopterus schreibersi Kuhl, 1817 Common bentwing bat, 

Schreiber’s long fingered bat 

LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Nyctalus lasiopterus Schreber, 1780 Giant noctule LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Nyctalus leisleri Kuhl, 1817 Lesser noctule LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Тadarida teniotis Rafinesque, 1814 European fretailed bat 

(Бюйцкдодаг енлийарпаг) 

Barbastella barbastellus Schreber, 

1774 

Western barbastelle VU A2c 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Myotus bechsteini Kuhl, 1817 Bechstein’s bat (Берштейн 

шябпяряси) 

Myotus emarginatus É. Geoffroy, 

1806teniotis 

Geoffroy’s bat (Цчрянэ 

шябпяря) 


Red Data Book 


- 

- 

- 

- 


Red Data Book 


- 


Red Data Book 


VU A2c 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

VU A2c 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

- 

- 

- 

- 

2009

Order Carnivora 

Suborder Feliformia 

Family Felidae – Cats 

Panthera tigris virgata Illiger, 

1815 44 



Tiger, turan tiger (Пялянэ) EN C2a(i) 

ver 3.1 (2001) 

Lynx lynx Linnaeus, 1758 Eurasian lynx (Вашаг) LT 

ver 3.1 (2001) 


Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 


Panthera pardus Linnaeus, 1758 Leopard (Бябир (халлы пялянэ) Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Felis silvestris Schreber, 177545 Wild cat (чюл пишийи) - Included in the 

Red Data Book 


Otocolobus manul Pallas, 1776 Pallas' cat (Манул пишийи) NT 

ver 3.1 (2001) 

Sub-order Pinnepedia 

Family Phocidae 

Phoca caspica Gmelin, 1788 Caspian Seal (Хязяр суити) VU B1+2e 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Family Hyaenidae – Hyaenas 

Hyaena hyaena Linnaeus, 1758 Striped hyaena (Золаглы 

кафтар) 

Family Mustelidae – Mustelids 

Vormela peregusna Güldenstädt, 

1770 

Marbled Polecat (Сафсар 

(сарыглы)) 

LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

Lutra lutra L., 1758 Common Otter (Чай самуру) VU A2cde 

Order Rodentia – Rodents 

Family Hystricidae – Scirtidae 

Sciurus anomalus Güldenstädt, 

1785 

Caucasian Squirrel, Persian 

Squirrel (Загафгазийа 

синжабы) 


Red Data Book 


44 The last recorded Turan tiger was killed in the Talysh region (Prishib village) in 1932. Reports of tigers 

in the Lenkoran region persisted since 1950, however there was thought to be some confusion with 

observation of leopards, and the tiger was listed in the Red Book subsequent to its extinction in 

Azerbaijan. 

45 

The steppe form of wild cat, which is distributed across Africa and Asia, is protected in Azerbaijan 

2009 

132 

- 


Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 


- 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Family Didodidae 

Sicista betulina Pallas, 1779 

Family Myxodae 

Northern Birch Mouse LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

- 

-



Glis glis Linnaeus, 1766 Fat dormoise LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

- 

Family Muridae 

Apodemus hyrcanicus Vorontsov, 

Boyeskorov & Mezhzherin, 1992 

Calomyscus urartensis Vorontsev 

& Kartavseva, 1979 

Caucasus field mouse DD 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Urartsk mouse-like hamster LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

Chionomys nivalis Martins, 1842 European snow vole, snow 

vole 

Order Artiodactyla 

Family Bovidae 

Gazella subgutturosa Güldenstädt, 

1780 

Goitred Gazelle, Sand Gazelle 

(Жейран) 

Capra cylindricornis Blyth, 1841) Eastern Caucasian Tur 

(Даьыстан туру, Даь кяли) 

Capra aegagrus Erxleben, 1777 Wild goat (Безоар кечиси, Гайа 

кечиси) 

Rupicapra rupicapra L., 1758 Alpine chamois (Кюэяр 

(Гарапача)) 

Ovis orientalis Gmelin, 1774 Mouflon (Кичик Асийа Муфлону, 

Вящши гойун) 

133 

LR/nt 

ver 2.3 (1994) 



data book 

NT 

ver 3.1 (2001) 

VU A1d+2de, 

C1 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

VU A2cde 

ver 2.3 (1994) 

- 

- 

- 


Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 



Red Data Book 


VU A2cde 

ver 2.3 (1994) 


Red Data Book 


2009

134 



Rare plant species listed in the Red Book of Nakhchivan 

Autonomous Republic 

Latin name Status Localities 

Nektaroskordum tripedale (Trautv) 

Grossh. 

Population declining, endemic Demirlidag, Soyugdag 

Carapodium platicarpum (Boiss. et Rare, at risk of extinction Kuku, Arafsa, Nasirvaz, 

Hausskn.) Schischk. 

Nusnus 

Dorema glabrum Fisch. et Mey. Rare, at risk of extinction Duzdag, Daridag, 

Nehramdag 

Ferula oopoda (Boiss. et Buhse) 

Boiss 

Rare, in danger of disappearing Duzdag 

Ferula persica Willd. Rare, habitat declining Sederek, Validag 

Ferula szowitsiana DC. Rare, habitat declining Duzdag, Validag, 

Nehramdag 

Peucedanum pauciradiatum 

Tamamsch. 

Rare, endemic Ordubad, Genze, Saridag 

Smyrniopsis oneberi Boiss. Rare, limited habitat Kechli, Bijenek, Kuku, 

Nurs 

Stenotaenia daralaghezica Takth. Rare, Caucasus habitat Arinch, Kuku, Upper 

Remeshen 

Aristolochia bottaee Jaub. et Spach Rare, reducing Within Garababa village 

Gundelia tournefortii L. Rare, Eurasian species Bashkend, Gazanchi, 

Hanaga, Aza 

Lactuca takhtadzhianii Sosn. Rare, population declining Novruz village, Garababa 

Pyrethrum komarowii Sosn. Rare, endemic Ordubad, Paraga, 

Nasirvaz 

Scorzonera pusilla Pall. Rare, habitat declining Duzdag, Sahtaxti 

Physoptychis gnaphaloides ( DC. ) 

Boiss. 

Rare, small population Demirlidag, Gemigaya 

Sampanula radula Fisch. et Tchih Rare, restricted habitat Aznaburd, (now 

Chalhangala) 

Anabasis eugeniae Iljin Rare, restricted habitat Kirna, Diza, Daridag 

Salsola tamamschjanae Iljin Rare, restricted habitat Velidag 

Juniperus foetidissima Willd. Rare, small population Batabat, Bijanak, 

Ilanlidag 

Eurhorbia grosshejmii Pokh. Rare, endemic Julfa, Ordubad, Kotam, 

Kilit 

Astragalus nachitsceanicus Rare, endemic, restricted habitat Garababa, Kotam, Kechili 

Astragalus paradoxus Bunge Rare, restricted habitat Nehrem, Jannab, 

Alinchachay 

Astragalus prilipkoana Grossh. Endemic, restricted habitat Bilev, Paraga 

Globularia trichosantha Fisch. et Rare, low-numbered Garagurd, Garagush 

Mey 

mountains 

Hypericum formosissimum takht. Rare, endemic, restricted habitat Aznaburd (Chalhangala) 

Iris grosshejmii Woronow ex Grossh. Rare, restricted habitat Shixyurdu, Soyugdag 

Iris elegantissima Sosn. Rare, endemic Around Sederek 

Iris lycotis Woronow Rare, endemic Aznaburd , Daridag, Aza, 

Arafsa 

Iris paradoxa Stev. Rare, endemic Around Nahchivan 

Iris prilipkoana Kem.-Nat. Rare, endemic Bijanak, Batabat, Kuku 

Iridodictium reticulate Bieb. Rare, small population Arafsa (Hazina) 

Scilla atropatana Qrossh. Rare, small population Dirnis, Nusnus 

Tulipa eichlnri Regel. Rare, endemic, restricted habitat Nusnus ( Sari mountains) 

Tulipa karabachensis Qrossh. Rare, endemic, restricted habitat Kotam, Kilit, Horhatdag 

Tulipa florenskyi Woronow Rare, habitat declining Nusnus, Galaguney,Dirnis 

Tulipa julija C. Koch. Rare, restricted habitat Bijenek, Arachidag, 

2009



Goydag 

Tulipa schmidtii Fomin Endemic species Nusnus (Diah, 

Fahladarasi) 

Platanus orientalis L. Population declining, relict specie Nahchivan, Ordubad, 

Nusnus 

Avena ventricosa Bal. ex Coss. Rare, small population Payiz, Chalhangala 

Triticum monococcum L. Rare, at risk of extinction Chalhangala, Garagush, 

Payiz 

Calligonum polygonoides L. Rare, declining and at risk of extinction Velideg, Kotam-Kilit 

Rheum ribes L. Rare, at risk of extinction Duzdag, Daridag, Kolani 

,Kuku 

Punica qranatum L. Reducing in numbers Around Kotam, Kilit, 

Nehrem 

Coteneaster saxatilis Pojark Rare, endemic Around Ahura, Hemzeli, 

Havus 

Padus avium Mill. Declining and at risk of extinction, rare Ahura-Havus, Bijenek, 

Batabat 

P. racemosa (Lamp.) Gilib. Declining and at risk of extinction, rare Ahura-Havus, Bijenek, 

Batabat 

Rosa azerbajdzhanica Novopokr et Rare, endemic Around Kuku 

Rzazade 

Rosa karjaginii Sosn. Rare, small population Around Urmis 

Rosa nizami Sosn. Rare, endemic Kuku, Bijenek 

Rosa sosnowskyi Chrshan. Rare, endemic Batabat, Bicenek 

Daphne transcaucasica Pobed. Rare, declining habitat Payiz, Chalhangala, 

Bijenek 

Stelleropsis magakjanii ( Sosn. ) Rare, endemic Around Kuku 

Pobed. 

Valeriana alliarifolia Adam. Rare, habitat specific Hurs, Nurgut, Kuku, 

Bayahmed 

135 

2009



Endemic plant species recorded in Nakhchivan Autonomous 

Republic 46 

Latin plant names 

136 

Endemism 

Caucasus Azerbaijan 

Nakhichevan 

AR 

Also in 

neighbouri 

ng regions 

Allium dictyoprasum C.A.Mey.ex Kunth. + 

A. affine Ledeb.(A.transcaucasium Grossh.) + 

A. pseudoampeloprasum Miscz. ex Grossh. + 

A. leucanthum C. Koch + 

A. mariae Bordz. + + 

A .woronowii Miscz.ex Grossh. + + 

A. leonidii Grossh. + + 

A. kunthianum Vved. + + 

A. syntamanthum C.Koch + + 

A. materculae Bordz. + + 

A. viride Grossh. + + 

Alchimilla sedelmeyeriana Juz. + + 

A. amicta Juz. + + 

A. grossheimii Juz. + 

A. ortotricha Juz. + 

A. epipsila Juz. + 

A. smirnovii Juz. + 

A. venosa Juz. + 

Aethionema diastropis Bunge + 

Anabasis eugeniae Iljin + + 

Asparagus persicus Baker (A.leptophyllus Schischk.) + 

Aconitum nasutum Fisch.ex Reichenb. + 

Atropatenia rostrata (N. Busch.) F. K. Mey. + + 

Arabis carduchorum Boiss.(A. armena N. Busch) + 

Amyqdalus natrica Fed. et Takht. + 

Androsace kozo-poljanskii Ovez.- (A. barbulata Ovez.) + 

A. raddeana Somm.et Levier + 

A. lehmanniana Spranq. + 

Arctium transcaucasium Sosn. + 

Astragulus cancellatus Bunge (A. perrarus Boiss.) + + 

Astragalus szovitsii Fisch. + + 

A. shelkovnikovii Grossh. + + 

A. conspicus Boriss. + + 

A. aznabjurticus Grossh. + + 

A. schachbuzensis Rzazade + + 

A. nachitschevanicus Rzazade + + 

A. euoplus Trautv. + 

A. insidiosus Boriss. + + 

A. badamlensis Chalilov + + 

Astragalus karakuschensis Gontsch. + + 

A. regelii Trautv. + + 

A. gezeldarensis Grossh. + 

A. kochianus Sosn. + 

A. hajastanus Grossh. + 

A. goktschaicus Grossh. + 

A. chalilovii Grossh. et Fed. + + 

A. ordubadensis Grossh. + + 

A. prilipkoaunus Grossh. + + 

A. achundovii Grossh.ex Fed. + + 

A. erivanensis Bornm.et Woronow + 

46 331 species are listed as endemic 

2009



A. montis-aqulis Grossh. + + 

A. johannis Rzazade + + 

Astracantha barba-carpinus (AI. Theod., Fed. et Rzazade) 

Podlech 

+ + 

A.vedicus (Takht.) Czer. (Astraqalus vedicus Takht..) Podlech + 

A. jucundus (AI. Theod., Fed. et Rzazade) Podlech + + 

A. gudrathi (AI. Theod., Fed. et Rzazade) Podlech + + 

A. flavirubens (AI. Theod., Fed. et Rzazade) Podlech + 

Alyssum stapffii Vierh.(A. buschianum Grossh.) + + 

Aphanopleura trachysperma Boiss. + 

Bellevalia longistila (Miscz.) Grossh. + + 

B. pycantha (C. Koch) Losinsk + 

B. zygomorpha Woronow. + 

Bromus tzvelevii Musayev et Sadichov + + 

Camelina sativa (L.) Grantz. + 

Carlina acaulis L. + 

Cymatocarrus grossheimii N Busch. + + 

Cirsium tricholoma Fisch. ex C. A. Mey. + + 

C. sinuatum (Trautv.) Boiss. + + 

C. megricum Charadze + 

C. schelkownikowii Petrak. + 

Сarum caucasicum (Bieb.) Boiss. + + 

Crataegus caucasica C. Koch. + + 

C. armena Pojark. + 

C. cynovskisii Kassumova + + 

Colutea komarovii Takht. + + 

Cephalaria nachiczevanica Grossh. + + 

C. armeniaca Bordz. + 

Cephalorrynchus kirpicznikovii Grossh. + + 

Campanula karakuschensis Grossh.(C.minsteriana Grossh) + + 

C. bayerniana Rupr.(C. elegantissima Grossh.) + 

C. daralaghezica (Grossh.) Kolak. et Serdjukova 

(Symphyandra daralaqhezica Grossh.) 

+ + 

C. zangezura (Lipskyi) Kolak et Serdjukova (Symphyandra 

zangezura Lipsky) 

+ + 

C. trautvetteri Grossh. ex Fed. + 

Chamerion transcaucasicum Manden + 

Ch. caucasicum (Willd.) Boiss. + 

Chamaemelum nobile (L.) All. + 

Colchicum szovitsii Fisch. et C. A. Mey. + 

C. zangezurum Grossh. + 

Celtis caucasica + + 

Carduus seminudus Bieb. + 

Cousinia lomkinii C. Winkl. + 

Centaurea fischeri Schlecht + + 

Coteneaster saxatilis Pojark + + 

Crepis karakuschensis Czer. + + 

Draba bruniifolia Stev. + 

D. bryoides DC. + 

D. siliguosa Bieb. + + 

Dianthus raddeanus Vierh. + + 

D. subulosus Freyn et Conrath + 

Delphinium foetidium Lomak. + 

D. flexuosum Bieb. + 

D. buschianum Grossh. + 

D. caucasicum C. A. Mey. + 

D. lomakinii Kem.-Nath. + + 

Doronicum macrophyllus Fisch.ex Hornem. + 

137 

2009

D. oblongifolium DC. 



+ 

Dorema glabrum Fisch. et C.A.Mey. + + 

Dracocephalum botryoides Stev. + + 

D. multicaule Montbr. + + 

Echinops orientalis Trautv.(E.arachinus Mulk.) + + 

E. polygamus Bunge (E. grossheimii Iljin) + 

Elytrigia heydemaniae Tzvel. + + 

Eurhrasia georgica Kem.-Nath. + 

E. caucasica Juz.-Qafqaz g. + 

Euphorbia leucographus Bunge + 

E. marschalliana Boiss. 

E. nutans Lag. 

+ + 

E. grossheimii Prokh + + 

Eryngium wanaturi Woronow + 

Erysimum chazarjurti N. Busch. + 

E. lilacinum Steinb. + 

E. leptophyllum (BIeb.) Andrz. (E. feodorovii M. Kassumov) + + 

E. buschii M. Kassumov + + 

E. subulatum J. Gay (E. Iljinii M. Kassumov) + + 

E. crassipes Fisch.et C. A. Mey.(E. transcaspium M. 

+ + 

Kassumov) 

E. wagifii M. Kassumov + + 

E. nachiczevanicum M. Kassumov + + 

Fritillaria caucasica Adams + + 

Fuernrohria setifolia C, Koch. + 

Ferula oopoda (Boiss.et Buhse) Boiss. + + 

Gagea alexeenkoana Miscz. + + 

G. caroli-kochii Grossh. + + 

G. improvisa Grossh. + + 

Galium czerepanovii Pobed. + + 

G. consanguineum Boiss.(G. majmechense Bordz.) + 

G. achurense Grossh. + + 

G. atropatanum Grossh. + + 

G. bulbatum Lipsky + + 

G.hyrcanum C.A.Mey (G.grossheimii Pobed.) + + 

Gypsophila szovitsii Fisch.etC.A.Mey.ex Fenz + + 

G. stevenii Fisch.ex Schrank + 

G. lipsky Schischk. + 

Dianthus caucasicus Smith.(G.discolor Smith.) + 

D. raddeanus Vierh. + 

D. subulosus Freun et Conrath. + 

Hylotelephium caucasicum H. Ohba.(Sedum caucasicum 

+ 

Grossh.) 

Hypericum formosissimum Takht. + + 

H. atropatanum Rzazade + + 

H. helianthomoides (Spach)Boiss. + + 

Haplophyllum villosum (Bieb.)G.Don fil. + + 

H.schelkovnikovii Grossh. + + + 

Hedysarum ibericum Bieb. + + 

H. cericeum Bieb. + + 

H. caucasicum Bieb. + 

Helichrisum araxinum Takht.et Kirp. + + + 

Hieracium cincinnatum Fries. + 

H. perileucum(Schischk. et Zahn.)Juxip + 

H. akinfiewii Woronow et zahn. + 

Heracleum pastinacifolium C.Koch. + + 

H. schelkownikovii Woronow + 

Iris spuria subsp.I.musulmanica Fomin + + 

I. paradoxa Stev. + + 

I. iberica Hoffm. + + 

I. prilipkoana Kem.- Nat. + 

I. grossheimii Woronow ex Grossh. + + 

I. limbata Lindl.(I.sulphurea C.Koch.) + 

138 

2009



I. lycotis Woronow + + 

Irydodictyum hyrcanum (Woronow ex Grossh.) Rodionenko + 

Juno schischkini (Grossh.)Czer. + + 

I. caucasica (Hoffm) Klatt. + 

I. pseudocaucasica (Grossh.) + + 

Inula mariae Bordz. + 

Jurinea spectabilis Fisch.etC.A.Mey. + 

Lathyrus rotundifolius Willd. + + 

L. atropatanus (Grossh/.)Sirj.(Orobus atropatanus Grossh.) + + 

Lactuca georgica Grossh. + 

Lotus caucasicus Kuprian.ex Juz + 

Limonium fischeri (Trautv.) Lincz. + + 

Linum subbiflorum Juz. + + 

L. hypericifolium Salisb. + + 

Linaria zangezura Groosh. + 

L. megrica Tzvel.(L.ordubadica Tzvel.) + 

L. schelkownikowii Schischk. + 

Cardaria propingua Fisch.et C.A.Mey.(Lepidium 

propinguum Fisch.) 

+ 

Medicago caucasica Vass. + + 

Melica schischkinii Iljinsk. + + 

Milium transcaucasium Tzvel. + + 

Muscari leicostomum Woronow ex Gzerniak + 

Malabaila sulcata Boiss. + 

Marrubium nanum Knorr. + + 

Melampurum chlorostachyum Beauverd + 

M. caucasicum Bunge. + 

Melilotoides biflora (Griseb.) Czer.(Melissitus biflorus 

Griseb.) 

+ 

Nepeta stricitifolia Pojark.(N.grossheimii Poyark.) + + 

N. zangezura Groosh. + + 

N. mussinii Spreng.(N.transcaucasica Grossh.) + 

N. noraschenica Grossh . + + 

N. trautvetteri Boiss.et Buhse (N.velutina Pojark) + 

N. schischkinii Pojark. + + 

N. betonicifolia C.A.Mey. + + 

N. erivanensis Pojark. + 

Neurotropis armena (N.Busch) Czer.(Thlaspi armena 

N.Busch) 

+ + 

N. szovitsiana (Boiss.)C.A.Mey.(Thlaspi szovitsianum Boiss) + + 

Noccaea tatianae (Bordz.) F.K.Mey.(Thlaspi tatianae 

Bordz.) 

+ + 

Nonnea rosea (Bieb.) Link. + + 

Onobrychis transcaucasica Grossh. + + 

O. hajastana Groosh. + + 

O. heteropylla C.A.Mey. + + 

O. radiata (Desf.)Bieb. + 

O. cyri Grossh + 

Orobanche raddeana G.Besk + + 

Ornithogalum brachystachys C.Koch. + + 

O. schelcovnikovii Groossh + 

O. balansae Boiss.(Schmalhausenii Albov) + + 

O. trancaucasicum Miscz.ex Grossh. + 

Oxytropis karjaginii Grossh. + + 

O. lupinoides Groosh.exFed. + + 

Onosma gracilis Trautv + 

Pimpinella aromatica Bieb. + 

Populus canascens (Ait.)Smith (P.hibrida Bieb.) + 

P. sosnovskyi Grossh. + 

P. gracilis Grossh. + 

Pyrus zangezura Maleev + 

P. voronovii Rubtz. + 

P. nutans Rubtz. + 

P. medvedevii Rubtz. + 

139 

2009



P. raddeana Woronow + 

Potentilla lomakinii Lomakini + 

P. conferta Bunge (P.agrimonioides Bieb.) + + 

P. szovitsii Th. Wolf + + 

Pyrethrum ordubadense Manden + + 

P. komarovii Sosn. + + 

P. punctatum (Desr.)Bordz.ex Schischk. + 

Polygala hohenaskeriana Fisch.et C.A.Mey. + + 

Polygonum bellardii All.(P.tiflisensis Kom.) + 

Peducularis crassirostris Bunge. + 

Peltariopsis grossheimii N.Busch. + + 

Ribes biebersteinii Berl.ex DC. + 

Rubus ibericus Juz. + 

Rosa tuschetica Boiss. + 

R. nizami Sosn. + + 

R. sachokiana P.Jarosch. + 

R. karjaginii Sosn. + + 

R. marschalliana Sosn. + 

R. zangezura P.Jarosch + 

R. sosnovskyana Tamamsch. + 

R. kazarjanii Sosn. + 

R. hracziana Tamamsch. + 

R. sosnovskiana Chrshan. + 

R. brotherorum Chrshan. + 

R. pulvurulenta Bieb.(R.azerbajdzhanica Novopokr et 

Rzazade ) 

+ + 

R.buschiana Chrshan. + 

R. orientalis Duront ex Ser (R.vanheurckiana Crep.) + 

Ranunculus grandiflorus L.( R.elegans C.Koch) + 

Rhynchocorys orientalis (L)Benth. + 

Salsola cana C.Koch + 

S. futilis Iljin + + 

S. tomentosa (Mog.) Spach, (S. flavovirens Iljin, S. 

takhtadzijani Iljin) 

+ + 

S. nitraria Pall.(S.macera Litv.) + 

S. tamamschjanae Iljin + + 

S. dzulphensis Grossh. + + 

S. nodulosa (Mog.)Iljin + + 

Salvia pachystachya Trautv. + + 

S. limbata C.A.Mey.(S. prilipkoana Grossh., S. fominii 

Grossh.) 

+ + 

S. suffruticosa Montbr.et Auch,ex Benth.(S. alechandrii 

+ + 

Pobed) 

S. reuteriana Boiss.(S. nachiczeanica Pobed.) + + 

S. andreji Pobed. + + 

Scilla mischtchenkoana Grossh.(S. zangezura Grossh.) + + 

S. sibirica Haw. + 

S. armena Grossh. + 

Scorzonera czerepanovii R.Ram.(S. lanata (L)Hoffm + + 

Scrophularia atropatana Groosh. + + + 

S. nachitschevanica Grossh. + + 

S. cinerascens Boiss.(S. grossheimii Schischk.) + 

S. thesoides Boiss.et Buhse. + + 

S. variegata Bieb.-Ala q. + + 

Sedum corymbosum Grossh. + + 

Silene prilipcoana Schischk. + + + 

S. depressa Bieb. + 

S. caucasica (Bunge)Boiss. + 

S. tatjanae Schischk. + 

S. longipetala Vent.(S./chloropetala Rupr.) + 

S. iberica Bierb. + 

Smyrniopsis aucheri Boiss. + + 

Swertia iberica Fisch.et C.A.Mey. + 

140 

2009



Stachys fruticulosa Bieb.(S. grossheimii Kapell.) + + 

S. intlata Benth. + 

S. fomini Sosn. + + 

Symphytum asperum Lepech. + + 

S. caucasicum Bieb. + 

Sameraria glastifolia (Fisch.et C.A, Mey.) Boiss. + + 

Senecio lipsky Lomak. + 

Stenotaenia macrocarpa Freyn et Sinth. + + 

Stipa issaevii Musayev et Sadychov + + 

S. karjaginii Musayev et Sadychov + + 

S. gaubae Bor. (S. nachiczevanica Musayev et Sadychov) + + 

S. olosericea Trin.et Rupr. + 

Salix aegyptiaca L.(Phlomoides Bieb.) + 

Seseli grandivittatum (Somm.et Levier.) Schischk. + 

Scutellaria karjaginii Grossh. + + 

S. rhomboidalis Grossh. + + 

S. darriensis Grossh. + + 

S. sevanensis Sosn.et Grossh. + 

Saxifraqa pontica Albov + 

S. juniperifolia Adams + 

Solidago armena Kem-Nath.ex Grossh. + 

Serratula haussknechtii Boiss. (S. trancaucasica Bornm.) + 

S. serratuloides (Fich. et C.A.Mey.) Takth. + 

Stizolophus balsamita (Lam.) Cass.ex Takht. + 

Thesium szovitsii A.DC. + + 

Thymus migricus Klok.et Shost. + + 

Th. nummularies Bieb. + + 

Th. collinus Bieb. + 

Tragopogon marginatus Boiss. + + 

T. nachitschevanicus (Kunth) N.Pop. + + 

T. sosnowskyi Kuth. + 

Taraxacum desertorum Schischk. + + 

T. prilipkoi Czer. (T.praticola Schischk.) + 

Tomanthea daralaghezica (Fomin) Takht. + 

Trinia leiogona (C.A.Mey.) B.Fedtsch. + + 

Tulira eichleri Regel + 

Trifolium fontanum Bobr. + 

Vicia anatolica Turrill. (V. hajastana Grossh.) + + 

V. ciceroidea Boiss.(V. rafigae Tamamsch) + + 

V. grossheimii Ekvtim + 

Vavilovia formosa (Stev.)Fed. + + 

Verbascum erivanicum E.Wulf + + 

V. georgicum Benth. + 

V. paniculatum E.Wulf + + 

Zeravschanica pauciradiata (Tamamsch.) M.Pimen + + 

Zizirhora denticulate Juz. + 

141 

2009

142 



Specially Protected Nature Areas of the Republic of Azerbaijan 

The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources established under Decree dated May 23, 2001 

and organized its countrywide activity efficiently. As evident from one fact, only total area of 

protected areas reached to 10.1% by increasing from 4.5% in relation to the country territory in 

the course of the Ministry activity. 

For conformity with up-to-date requirements of protected areas system in the Republic, 

conservation of all necessary ecosystems and key species and creation of buffers and protective 

zones, departments and administrations at status of National Park have been established since 

2003 for the first time in the country history through more sustainable actions within the last 

years. Actions carried on enhancement and expansion of Protected Areas since 2003 were 

continued according to “Towards effective protected areas system - A guide for action on 

implementation of PAs Work Programme of Convention of Biological Diversity” and presently, 

there exist protected areas at total 876236.1 ha, including 8 National Parks, 11 state nature 

reserves and 24 state nature sanctuaries in our country. 

Moreover, Gobustan state nature reserve and Baku Seaside National Park (area of 80 ha) are 

functioning, there exist 2083 centennial trees, 37 geological and paleontological sites and 15 

thousand ha endemic and valuable forest lands. 

№ Name of the SPNA Administrative territory Area Date of 

establishment 

1 

National Parks 

Shirvan NP Garadagh district of Baku 

city, Salyan and Neftchala 

regions 

54373,50 2003 

2 Aghgol NP Aghjabadi and Beylagan 

regions 

17924,00 2003 

3 Hirkan NP Lankaran and Astara 

regions 

40358,00 2004 

4 Altiaghaj NP Khizi and Siyazan regions 11035,00 2004 

5 Absheron NP Azizbayov district of Baku 783,00 2005 

city 

6 Shahdagh NP Guba, Gusar, Ismayilly, 

Gabala, Oghuz and 

Shamakhy regions 

7 Goygol NP Goygol, Dashkasan and 

Goranboy regions 

115895,00 2006 

12755,00 2008 

8 Zangazur NP 

named after 

Academician 

H.Aliyev 

Nakhichevan AR 42797,4 2009 

State Nature Reserves 

1 Gizilaghaj SNR Lankaran region 88360,00 1929 

2 Zagatala SNR Zagatala and Balakan 

regions 

47349,00 1929 

3 Turyanchay SNR Aghdash, Oghuz,Yevlakh 

and Gabala regions 

22488,00 1958 

2009

143 



4 Shirvan SNR Salyan and Neftchala 

regions 

6232,00 1969 

5 Basitchay SNR Zangilan region 107,00 1974 

6 Garayazy SNR Gazakh region 9658,00 1978 

7 Ilisu SNR Gakh region 17381,60 1987 

8 Garagol SNR Lachin region 240,00 1987 

9 Eldar shamy SNR Samukh region 1686,00 2004 

10 Mud volcanoes Baku and Absheron 

20000,00 2007 

SNR 

peninsula 

11 Korchay SNR Goranboy region 4833,60 2008 

State Nature Sanctuaries 

1 Lachin SNS Lachin region 20000,00 1961 

2 Korchay SNS Goygol and Goranboy 

regions 

15000,00 1961 

3 Bandovan SNS Salyan region and 

Garadagh district 

4930,00 1961 

4 Shaki SNS Shaki region 10350,00 1964 

5 Gusar SNS Gusar region 15000,00 1964 

6 Shamkir SNS Shamkir region 10000,00 1964 

7 Gil island SNS Gil island 400,00 1964 

8 Garayazy-Aghstafa Aghstafa region 

SNS 

10000,00 1964 

9 Barda SNS Barda and Aghdam regions 7500,00 1966 

10 Zuvand SNS Lerik,Yardimly regions 15000,00 1969 

11 Ordubad SNS Ordubad region 27869,00 1969 

12 Ismayilly SNS Ismayilly and Gabala 

region 

23438,00 1969 

13 Qubadlı SNS Qubadlı, Lachin region 20000,00 1969 

14 Lesser Gizilaghaj 

SNS 

Lankaran region 10700,00 1978 

15 Dashaltı SNS Shusha region 450,00 1981 

16 Qızılja SNS Gedebey region 5135,00 1984 

17 Arazboyu SNS Zangilan region 2200,00 1993 

18 Gabala SNS Gabala region 39700,00 1993 

19 Gakh SNS Gakh region 36836,00 2003 

20 Hirkan SNS Lankaran and Astara 

regions 

1553,00 2005 

21 Arazboyu SNS Nakhichevan AR 9118,00 2005 

22 Zagatala SNS Zagatala and Balakan 

regions 

6557,00 2008 

23 Arpachay SNS Nakhichevan AR , Sharur 

region 

68911,00 2009 

24 Rvarud SNS Lerik region 1333,00 2009 

2009



Appendix 4 – National indigators used in the report. 

Refer to the Chapter 1. 

144 

2009

145 



Annexes 

2009

Annex 1.1 

146 



The morphometric description of the main rivers in the Republic is given below. 

River Where the river 

flows into (to 

which bank) 

Length, km Water 

collecting area, 

km 2 

Height situation, m 

origin outfall 

1 2 3 4 5 6 

Kura river Caspian sea 1515 188000 2740 -27 

Ganikh Mingachevir 

reservoir 

413 16920 2560 75 

Gabirri Mingachevir 

reservoir 

389 4840 2560 51 

Khram Kura river (right) 220 8340 2422 255 

Aghstafachay Kura river (right) 133 2586 3000 210 

Kurakchay Kura river (right) 126 2080 3100 18 

Araz Kura river (right) 1072 102000 2990 -11 

Arpachay Araz (left) 126 2630 2985 780 

Hakarichay Araz (left) 128 5540 3080 268 

Samur Caspian sea 216 4430 3600 -27 

Pirsaat Caspian sea 199 2280 2400 -11 

Bolgarchay Mahmudchala lake 168 2170 1710 -17 

2009

Annex 2.1 

Status of the countrywide land use 

147 



YEARS 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Difference on 

2003-2008 

Total area 8641506 8641506 8641506 8641506 8641506 8641506 + - 

Agricultural 4524980 4524776 4528272 4524825 4524073 4523960 

1020 

lands, including 1282267 1287326 1289452 1287500 1287361 1286968 

irrigated, total 

4701 

Arable lands, 1630813 1635420 1640964 1638301 1650153 1659672 28859 

irrigated hereof 1102045 1107734 1112595 1110068 1106065 1107371 5326 

Uncropped 53011 49893 45688 45788 45630 41761 

11250 

lands, irrigated 

hereof 

20432 16945 14915 15176 15076 13434 

6998 

Perennial 158521 155752 155505 155070 158591 161549 3028 

arable lands, 

irrigated hereof 

113186 110417 109710 110046 114070 116484 

3298 

Hayfield, 109031 109027 109629 109549 109689 109689 658 

irrigated hereof 6253 6304 6304 6302 6302 6302 

49 

Pastures, 2573604 2574684 2576486 2576117 2560010 2551289 22315 

irrigated hereof 40351 45926 45928 45908 45848 43377 

3026 

Household 254401 255306 255601 256732 258095 258454 4053 

plots, irrigated 

hereof 

137308 137459 136910 138281 138855 139157 

1849 

2009

Annex 2.2 

Status of the land use by the economical regions (information on December 2009) 

Econimical 

regions 

Overall area 

Rural 

populatio 

n (1000 

persons) 

Annual 

plants 

Parennial 

plants 

148 

Noncropp 

ed lands 

Househol 

d plot 

(arable 

area) 



Total 

Arable 

lands 

Meadow 

and 

pasture 

areas 

1000 hektares 

Total 

agricultur 

elands 

Absheron 525.5 34.6 21.8 4.2 4.8 2.7 35.7 152.1 187.8 

Guba- 

Khachmaz 

801.0 316.1 128.4 31.6 2.1 11.7 170.5 276.0 446.5 

Zagatala- 

Balakan 

987.7 405.9 179.9 46.7 1.8 19.1 241.2 221.1 462.3 

Shirvan 1196.4 526.1 299.3 17.8 8.7 38.2 362.3 390.1 752.4 

Ganja-Gazakh 1249.4 607.2 189.6 12.9 3.2 36.6 242.0 550.2 792.2 

Garabagh-Mil 886.8 548.4 266.1 25.3 2.8 15.6 314.3 256.2 570.5 

Mugan- 

Salyan 

776.8 488.7 286.7 25.0 3.9 28.4 327.8 251.5 579.3 

Lankaran- 

Astara 

493.7 459.2 66.6 10.2 2.1 25.4 92.4 105.4 197.8 

Nakhchivan 536.3 271.1 27.9 2.9 7.9 12.9 54.6 116.2 170.8 

Total 7453.5 3657.2 1466.3 176.6 37.3 190.6 1840.9 2318.8 4159.7 

Occupied 

areas 

The Republic 

of Azerbaijan 

- total 

1188.0 387.7 171.4 38.0 7.1 13.2 224.9 356.4 581.3 

8641.5 4044.9 1637.7 214.6 44.4 203.8 2065.7 2675.2 4741.0 

2009

Annex 2.3 

Distribution of the arable lands and average limits of the farm 

Name of 

the 

economical 

regions 

Number 

of the 

rural 

families 

(the end 

of 

2009) 

149 



Mountanous area Plain area Total 

Total 

arable 

lands 

(1000 

ha) 

Land 

area 

for per 

familiy 

(ha) 

Number 

of the 

rural 

families 

(the end 

of 2009) 

Total 

arable 

lands 

(1000 

ha 

Land 

area 

for per 

familiy 

(ha 

Number 

of the 

rural 

families 

(the end 

of 

2009)) 

Total 

arable 

lands 

(1000 

ha 

Land 

area 

for per 

familiy 

(ha 

Absheron 1671 7.4 4.43 4996 28.3 5.66 6667 35.7 5.35 

Guba- 

Khachmaz 

- - - 64821 170.5 2.63 64821 170.5 2.63 

Zagatala- 

Balakan 

- - - 84736 241.2 2.85 84736 241.2 2.85 

Shirvan 30216 117.1 3.87 78644 245.3 3.12 108860 362.4 3.33 

Ganja- 

Gazakh 

21872 20.0 0.91 103371 222.0 2.15 125243 242.0 1.93 

Garabagh- 

Mil 

- - - 124046 314.3 2.53 124046 314.3 2.53 

Mughan- 

Salyan 

- - - 124106 327.8 2.64 124106 327.8 2.64 

Lankaran- 

Astara 

24014 33.6 1.40 76811 58.9 0.77 100825 92.5 0.92 

Nakhchivan - - - 56774 54.6 0.96 56774 54.6 0.96 

Total 77773 178.1 2.29 718305 1662.8 2.31 796078 1840.9 2.31 

Occupied 

areas 

The 

Republic of 

Azerbaijan - 

total 

77540 224.9 2.90 - - - 77540 224.9 2.90 

155313 403.0 2.59 718305 1662.8 2.31 873618 2065.8 2.36 

2009

Annex 2.4 

Land use status in Nakhchican AR 

150 



YEARS 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 

Total area 536300 536300 536300 536300 536300 536300 

Agriculture lands, 

including irrigated 

total 

Arable lands, 


Noncropped, 


Perennial arable 

lands, 


Hayfield, 


Pastures, 


Household plots, 


162447 

43201 

36321 

33623 

5750 

3687 

706 

706 

3340 

607 

116330 

4578 

14577 

13046 

162447 

43652 

36711 

34821 

4992 

2446 

732 

732 

3336 

658 

116676 

4995 

14201 

12684 

162447 

43652 

41326 

36100 

2551 

1409 

490 

490 

3336 

658 

114744 

4995 

14206 

12684 

162423 

43628 

41188 

35687 

2975 

1754 

549 

549 

3336 

658 

114375 

4980 

14392 

12690 

162391 

43596 

41257 

35735 

2874 

1674 

549 

549 

3336 

658 

114375 

4980 

14424 

12722 

162382 

43587 

50535 

39403 

194 

32 

549 

549 

3336 

658 

107768 

2945 

14439 

12731 

2009

Annex 3.1 



Rare and endangered animal species included in the Red 

Data Book of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic 

Latin names of the species Status Areal 

Aegypius monachus L. Decreasing area, close to danger Open landscape uplands, sparse 

Accipiter brevipes Severtzov Restricted area, sensitive, exotic 

juniper wooded rocky areas, wintering 

lowland zone 

Hayfield forest of Shahbuz State 

specy 

Allactaga williamsi Thomas Decreasing area, poorly studied 

biology, close to danger 

Nature Reserve 

Boyukduz and Julfa flats, as well as up 

to 2500 m height above sea level in 

mountainous and xerophytes/ 

xerophilous plants covered areas in 

Nakhichevan AR 

Anser erythropus Linn. Sensitive, exotic specy Coasts of the Caspian sea, Gizilaghaj 

reserve, Aghgol, Sarisu, Gushgol, 

Jandargol and, Araz river of 

Ammoperdix griseogularis 

(B.R.) 

Restricted area, sensitive, exotic 

specy 


Lanscapes surrounded by low-lying 

hills and rocky places and covered 

with xerophilous plants in the territory 

of Nakhichevan AR 

Shahbuz, Ordubad (1200 m) and Julfa 

Aquila chrysaetos Linn. Minor numbered, endangered, 

restricted area, sensitive regions in Nakhichevan AR 

Aquila heliaca Savigny Close to endangering by Upland and foothill zones of 

continually declining abundance 

dynamics 


Aythya nyroca Guld. Decreasing area, poorly studied Caspian seacoast part of Gizilaghaj 

biology, close to danger bay, water cross-sections of Araz river 

Barbastella leucomelas Restricted area, minor Kilit cave of Ordubad region of 

Cretzchmar 

numbered, 

specy 

sensitive, exotic Nakhichevan AR 

Bucanetes githagineus (Licht.) Decreasing area, poorly studied Daridagh part, around Aza village of 

biology, close to danger, exotic 

specy 

Julfa region of Nakhichevan AR 

Calomuscus urartensis Vor. Et Decreasing area, poorly studied Frontiers of medium mountainous zone 

Kar. 

biology, close to danger of Nakhichevan river 

Capra aegagrus Erxleben Restricted area, sensitive, exotic 

specy 

Ilanlidagh, Nehramdagh, Zangazur 

Circaetus gallicus Gmel. Decreasing area, minor Araz sloping plain (Boyukduz and 

numbered, close to danger, Darasham) and medium mountainous 

exotic specy 

zones 

Circus macrourus G.M. Decreasing area, poorly studied Araz plain and grey forest soil of 

biology, close to danger Nakhichevan AR 

Chlamydotis undulata Jacquin Specy in critically limited Araz valley and flat, crippled 

natural condition and probably 

endangered 

semidesert zones 

Chettusia gregaria Pall. Endangering specy by declining Arazside zone of Kangarli region and 

abundance 

Alinja bank of Julfa region in 

Crex crex Linn. Decreasing area, poorly studied 


Boyukduz and Julfa flats of Araz plain 

biology, exotic specy by in Nakhichevan AR 

2009 

151



declining abundance, close to 

danger 

Cygnus cygnus Linn. Decreasing area, poorly studied Araz river of Nakhichevan AR 


Elaphe hohenackeri Strauch. Restricted area, sensitive, exotic 

specy by sharply declining 

abundance 

Eremias strauchi Kessl. Exotic specy by continually 

declining abundance 

Eremophila alpestris Linn. Decreasing area, poorly studied 


Eumeces schneideri Daud. Decreasing area, close to danger, 

minor numbered, exotic specy 

Falco biarmicus Temm. Restricted area, sensitive, exotic 

specy by declining abundance 

Falco peregrinus Tunstall. Decreasing area, poorly studied 

biology, exotic specy by 

declining abundance, close to 

danger 

Falco naumanni Fleischer Restricted area, sensitive, exotic 

specy by gradually declining 

Felis libyca Forster Decreasing area, poorly studied 


Felis manul Pallas Restricted area, sensitive, exotic 

specy 

Felis lynx Linn. Decreasing area, poorly studied 


Felis silvestris Schreber Decreasing area, poorly studied 

biology 

Glareola nordmanni Nordm. Decreasing area, poorly studied 

biology, exotic specy by 

Gypaetus barbatus Linn. 

continually declining abundance, 

close to danger 

Minor numbered, endangering, 

restricted area, sensitive 

Gyps fulvus Habl. Decreasing area, poorly studied 


Haliaeetus albicilla Linn. Decreasing area, poorly studied 

biology, exotic specy close to 

danger 

Hyaena hyaena Linn. Specy in critically limited 


endangered 

152 

Bichanak village of Shahbuz region 

and vicinity of Yukhary Andamij and 

Ganza villages of Ordubad region in 


Surroundings of Nakhichevan city, 

Daridagh and Soyugdagh areas 

High mountain belt of Nakhichevan 

AR, Arazside areas and surroundings 

of Nakhichevan city in winter 

Semideserts and plains adjoining to 

Arazside part of Julfa and Ordubad 

regions 

Around Kuku mountain area 

(Daraboghaz) and rocky place in the 

vicinity of Gizil Gishlag of Shahbuz 

region in Nakhichevan AR 

Garagush mountain of Sharur region, 

Gilanchay and Nurgut villages of 

Ordubad region, around Kolany village 

of Shahbuz region in Nakhichevan AR 

Tugai forests, oases and sparsely 

wooded open areas 

Mughan and Salyan plains, Hajinohur 

flats and Araz river valley in 


Validagh areas of Sadarak region 

adjacent to Araz river and Darasham 

area of Julfa region in Nakhichevan 

AR 

South slopes of Great Caucasus 

(Shaki-Zagatala, Ismayilly and 

Shamakhy forests) - north east utmost 

ends (Guba and Davachi regions), 

Nakhichevan AR and Lankaran region 

Areas of Great Caucasus and Little 

Caucasus and, Bichanak and Tillak 

forests of Nakhichevan AR 

Araz sloping plain and medium 

mountainy zones of Nakhichevan AR 

Ilanlidagh, Darasham and Batabat 

areas in Nakhichevan AR 

Rocky places of medium and high 

mountainy zones of Nakhichevan AR 

Plains and, coasts of the Caspian and 

banks of Araz river 

Bottoms of Bozdagh and, Aghdam and 

Fizuli regions, areas of Ilanlidagh, 

Paradash of Julfa region and Gilanchay 

2009

Hystrix indica Kerr. Decreasing area, poorly studied 


Irania gutturals G.M. Decreasing area, exotic specy 

close to danger 

Lacerta parva Boul. Specy in critically limited 

Lanius senator Linn. 


endangered 

Decreasing area, poorly studied 


Larus ichthyaetus Pall. Decreasing area, poorly studied 


Marmaronetta angustirostris Endangering, sensitive, exotic 

Men. 

specy 

Mabuya aurata Linneus Decreasing area, close to danger, 

restricted area, exotic specy by 

declining abundance 

Miniopterus schreibersi Kühl. Decreasing area, poorly studied 

biology, minor numbered, exotic 

specy 

Otis tarda Linn. Specy by declining abundance, 

close to endangering 

Ovis orientalis Gmelin. Close to endangering by 

continually declining abundance 

dynamics 

Oxyura leucocephala Scop. Specy by continually declining 

abundance and needed for 

preferential protection 

Panthera pardus Linn. Specy in critically limited 


endangered 

Pelobates syriacus Boettger Decreasing area, close to danger, 

restricted area, minor numbered, 

exotic specy 

Pelecanus onocrotalis L. Disseminated in limited areas, 

sensitive, exotic specy 

153 



valley of Ordubad region in 


Lankaran zone, Mountainous 

Garabagh and, areas of Kotam, Ganza, 

Vanand, Dirnis, Gilanchay, Bilav and 

Tivi villages in Nakhichevan AR 

Araz valley, down to lowland belt 

Territory of Julfa region of 


Dry climate shrublands of low-lying 

and foothill regions 

The Caspian sea, Mingachevir, Araz 

river 

Araz river of Nakhichevan AR 

Surroundings of Old Kotam, Ganza 

and Kilit of Ordubad region of 


Cavern areas covered with phryganoid 

vegetation of medium mountain belt 

Kura-Araz, Lankaran areas and, 

Boyukduz and Darasham flats of Araz 

sloping plain in Nakhichevan AR 

Zangazur, Daralayaz and Ilanlidagh 

ranges of Nakhichevan AR 

Surroundings of the Caspian coasts 

and water cross-section of Araz river 

Zangazur and Daralayaz ranges of 


Surroundings of Araz river 

Araz river of Nakhichevan AR, 

vicinity of Arpachay water reservoir 

Pelecanus crispus Bruch. Globally protected specy Lankaran and Kura-Araz lowlands, 

water sources in the Caspian coasts, 

Araz river and Arpachay water 

Phalacrocorax pygmaeus Pall. Endangered, 

specy 

sensitive, exotic 

Phrynocephalus helioscopus Minor numbered, restricted area, 

Pall. 

exotic specy 

reservoir in Nakhichevan AR 

Araz river of Nakhichevan AR 

Uzunoba village of Babek region, 

Dasta village of Ordubad region, 

Gulustan village of Julfa region 

of Nakhichevan AR, Zuvand and 

Absheron peninsula (Garadagh 

district) 

Phoenicopterus roseus Pall. Decreasing area, close to danger Gizilaghaj bay, Aghgol and Araz river 

bank of Nakhichevan AR 

Phylloscorus collybita Viell. Decreasing area, poorly studied Forest and shrublands of Shahbuz and 

biology, close to danger Babek regions, Nabatat garden of 

2009

Plecotus auritus Linn. Decreasing area, poorly studied 

biology, minor numbered, exotic 

specy disseminated in limited 

area 

Platalea leucorodia Linn. Decreasing area, poorly studied 

Psammophis lineolatum 

Brandt. 


Decreasing area, poorly studied 


Pterocles alchata Linn. Decreasing area, poorly studied 


Pterocles orientalis Linn. Restricted area, close to danger, 


Rhinolophus euryale Blasius Restricted area, minor 

numbered, 

specy 

sensitive, exotic 

Rhinolophus hipposideros Decreasing area, poorly studied 

Bechstein 


Rhinolophus mehelyi Matschie Restricted area, minor 

numbered, sensitive, exotic 

specy 

Rhinolophus blasii Peters Decreasing area, poorly studied 

biology, minor numbered, close 

to danger 

Rhynchocalamus 

melanocephalus Jan. 1993 

Specy in critically limited 


endangered 

Restricted area, minor 

154 



Nakhichevan city in Nakhichevan AR 

Kalaki village (1600 m above sea 

level) of Ordubad region, cavities and 

fissures on garrets, tree hollows in 

Nakhichevan city of Nakhichevan AR 

Aghgol, reedy and bulrush areas of 

Araz river banks 

Surroundings of Jamaldin village of 

Julfa region and Diza village of 

Ordubad region 

Semidesert and desert zones of Araz 

plain in Nakhichevan AR 

Boyukduz and Julfa flats of Araz plain 

in Nakhichevan AR 

Cavern in the vicinity of Kilit village 

of Ordubad region and Araz river in 


Medium and high mountain zones in 

the territory of Nakhichevan AR 

Cavern in the vicinity of Maralik 

village of Shahbuz region in 


Maralik village of Shahbuz region, 

Sirab village of Babek region and 

caverns in the vicinity of Ordubad 

region in Nakhichevan AR 

Ordubad, Kotam, around Kilit and 

Arazside zone in Nakhichevan AR 

Salmo trutta morpho fario 

Goygol, Sakkarsu, Ayrichay*, 

Linneus, 1758 

numbered, exotic specy Unuschay, Gilanchay 

Sitta tephronata Scharp. Decreasing area, poorly studied Slopes of rocky places and sparse 

biology, exotic specy close to shrublands of medium and high 

danger 

mountains 

Testudo graeca L. Minor numbered, restricted area, Garagush mountain of Sharur region, 


Jin mountain of Shahbuz region, 

Mazra village of Ordubad region in 


Tetraogallus caspicus Gmel. Restricted area, sensitive, exotic 

specy by declining abundance 

Shahbuz, Ordubad and Julfa mountains 

Tichodroma muraria Linn. Restricted area, sensitive, exotic Rocky places and ravines of lowland 

specy 

and upland zone in Azerbaijan 

Ursus arctos Linn. Restricted area, sensitive, exotic Great Caucasus and Small Caucasus, 

specy 

Talish and Nakhichevan forests, 

bottom of Daralayaz and Zangazur 

ranges in Nakhichevan AR, Batabat 

forest of Shahbuz State Nature 

Reserve, zone of Khurs and Nasirvar 

forests 

Vipera xanthina Gray Restricted area, sensitive, exotic Nakhichevan AR, namely areas 

(V.Raddei Boett) 

specy by sharply declining covered with mountainous and 

abundance 

xerophytes/xerophilous plants at 1100- 

2500 m height 

Vormela peregusna Güld., Decreasing area, close to danger Julfa, Babek and Ordubad regions of 


2009

155 



Annex 4.1 

№ Name of the indigators 

(thousand areas) 

Quantity 

1 Overall area of the irrigated agriculture lands 1450.0 

2 Total of the drainaged area of the irrigated agricultural lands 609.7 

3 Distribution of the irrigated areas on the incline degree of the subsoil Less than 1.0 m 68.7 

waters (metre) 

1.0-1.5 171.6 

1.5-2.0 314.5 

2.0-3.0 358.9 

3.0-5.0 234.9 

More than 5.0 296.3 

4 Distribution of the irrigated agriculture lands on the mineralization Less than 1.0 m 489.6 

degree of the subsoil waters (g/l) 

1.0-3.0 506.0 

More than 3.0 m 449.3 

5 Distribution of the irrigated agriculture lands on the mineralization Less than 1.0 m 1201.0 

degree of the irrigation waters 

1.0-2.0 243.9 

More than 2.0 m - 

6 Distribution of the irrigated agriculture lands on the saltiness degree Salty 757.2 

(on 0-100 sm layer of earth) 

Weak salty 387.1 

Medium salty 185.5 

Strong and very strong salty 115.1 

7 Distribution of the irrigated agriculture lands on the saline degree Non-saline 978.6 

(on 0-100 sm layer of earth) 

Weak saline 375.3 

Medium and strong saline 43.2 

8 Evaluation of the land-reclamation status of the irrigated areas on Good 396.1 

the incline depth and saltiness degree of lands 

Satisfactory 663.7 

Non-satisfacrory 385.1 

Including According to the depth of waters 103.4 

According to the saltiness of the lands 115.1 

According to the depth of waters and the 

saltiness of the lands 

166.6 

2009

Annex 4.2 

I n f o r m a t i o n 

on the amount of the mineral fertilizers used per hectares of the agricultural plant seedings 

156 



(kg affective substance is taken into consideration) 

№ Name of the plants 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 

1 Gorn 86.0 95.0 65.0 72.4 80.4 83.5 91.0 

2 Cotton 77.0 80.1 51.6 50.7 45.2 43.2 40.0 

3 Tobacco 30.8 37.0 42.0 34.5 30.0 26.7 25.2 

4 Vegetable-potato 17.5 17.9 26.0 46.8 50.3 60.0 64.7 

5 Fruit 21.8 18.5 30.4 37.1 46.7 50.4 56.2 

6 Fodder crops - - - - - - - 

2009

Annex 4.3 

I n f o r m a t i o n 

on the fertilizers used for agricultural plants 

157 



(thousand ton affective substance is taken into consideration) 

№ Name of the plants 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 

1 Gorn 6.5 8.3 8.6 8.7 11.9 15.0 32.3 

2 Cotton 4.6 4.0 6.4 9.2 8.9 0.8 0.9 

3 Tobacco 0.06 0.05 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 

4 Vegetable-potato 2.14 3.33 4.4 4.3 3.2 3.1 5.1 

5 Fruit 1.3 1.9 1.1 1.1 1.0 1.0 2.3 

6 Fodder crops 0.02 0.02 - - - - - 

Total 14.62 23.7 20.6 23.5 25.2 20.1 40.7 

Including : N 12.9 15.8 16.9 19.5 20.7 16.5 31.7 

P 1.72 1.8 1.8 2.0 2.5 2.0 4.5 

K - - 1.9 2.0 2.0 1.6 4.5 

2009

Annex 5.1 

Information reflecting situation of forestry is given in the following table under the statistic data of 2002-2008. 

158 



Name of the actions 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Total 

Renewal of the governmentally important forests, ha 

including: 

Forest plantation and sowing, ha 

Forest plantation in ravines, gorges, sandy places and 

inarable lands of other land users, ha 

Referring of young trees in the governmentally 

important forest lands 

to category of cultivated valuable woodlands, ha 

including: 

by forest plantation, ha 

7750 

3150 

214 

4403 

1122 

Fire occurred forest lands, ha 46 9 77 21 15 88 25 281 

Forest service and sanitary cutoffs, ha 5807 2836 9991 3462 3536 5477 4514 35623 

Wood procurement for sale, cubic meter 64665 22064 31355 32082 31312 51599 36248 269325 

Protection of forest from insects and diseases by 

biological method, thousand ha 

- - 10 15 7 8 - 40 

8721 

3701 

136 

3851 

1265 

9126 

3705 

159 

3844 

1349 

9737 

3850 

55 

3803 

948 

10140 

3848 

76 

4863 

700 

10500 

3853 

20 

4350 

1475 

10960 

3898 

349 

4232 

1481 

66934 

26005 

1009 

29346 

8340 

2009

Fish species 

Storgeons 

(ton) 

Kilka 

(thousand) 

Annex 6.1 

159 



Information on the setting free young fishes in the Republic of Azerbaijan 

Name of the 

fish 

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 

Sturgeons 

(million) 

12,02 19,89 16,96 16,03 9,68 12,49 7,67 

Salmonids 

(thousand) 

0,073 0,078 0,113 0,095 0,118 0,174 0,180 

Minnows/carps 

(million) 

440,65 436,38 427,51 432,13 435,91 409,68 408,50 

Total: 452,74 456,34 444,58 448,26 445,71 422,35 416,35 

Annex 6.2 

Quota for fish hunting in the Republic of Azerbaijan and its assimilation 

Annex 6.3 

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 

limit fact limit fact limit fact limit fact limit fact limit fact limit fact 

104,59 104,48 104 88 100 84 90 8 90 73 90 72 90 3 

22 6,07 41,12 8,89 23,46 8,63 18,96 3,66 23 2,45 23 1,02 23 0,748 

Number of hunted fishes in the Republic of Azerbaijan during 10 months in 2003-2009 

ton) 

(thousand 

Fish species 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 

10 

months in 

2009 

Sturgeon 0,10 0,088 0,084 0,008 0,073 0,072 0,003 

Carp 0,211 0,21 0,219 0,238 0,328 0,324 0,206 

Kilka 6,07 8,89 8,63 3,66 2,45 1,02 0,748 

Shad 0,05 0,06 0,06 0,068 0,096 0,10 0,073 

Total: 6,431 9,248 8,993 3,974 2,947 1,516 1,03 

NOTE: Decline in fishing as compared to 2003 was possible mainly on account of sprat and sturgeons. Its 

reason is related to reduction as 12-16 times of number and biomass of zooplanctons which sprats feeded 

with and subsequently, diminishing of volume of sprat fishery due to impact of Mnemiopsis Leidiyi being 

alien specy for the Caspian. 

Notwithstanding national quotas were allocated by the Bioresources Commission in 2006 and 2009 no 

requests were addressed for industrial fishing of sturgeons by the organizations engaged in fishing and fish 

trade, because export quota has not been ratified by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered 

Species. 

2009

Annex 6.4 

160 



Information on the factual expenses, factual budget allocation and demand for budget allocation during 

2003-2008 for the financing the Department of Reproduction and Protection of Aquatic Bioresources and 

its subordinated institutions (thousand manats) 

№ Indicators Unit of 

measure 

1 Budget allocation 

requied for the 

support of the 

2 

Annex 7.1 

institutions 

Budget allocation 

affirmated according 

to the requiement 

3 Factual transferred 

resource from the 

affirmated budget 

allocation 

4 Factual expences 

from the affirmated 

budget allocation 

5 Less resource than 

the requiment was 

affirmated 

6 Less than the 

affirmated resource 

was financed 

7 So the resource 

transferred late, it 

wasn’t possible to 

use it and it was 

returned back to the 

Minstry of Finance 

of the Republic of 


ment 

Thousan 

d manat 

Density of the connection roads in the Republic area 

(for the end of the year; km road for per 1000 km 2 area) 

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 

641,6 627,4 668.0 1605.0 1866.0 5027.7 

-«- 210,9 275,0 379,1 1172,7 1683,0 1898.6 

-«- 209,9 257,6 379,1 1125,6 1562,2 1733.2 

-«- 192,3 246,5 360,8 811,5 1242,6 1400.6 

-«- 430,7 352,4 288,5 432,3 183,0 3129.1 

-«- 1 17 0 47 121 165 

«- 75 25 

2001 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 

Railway - total 37,7 35,3 34,5 34,3 34,3 33,7 33,7 

Transport sector 24,4 24,5 24,5 24,5 24,5 24,2 24,2 

Non-transport areas 13,3 10,8 10,0 10,0 9,8 9,5 9,5 

Main pipelines 50,8 48,5 52,0 47,3 53,1 61,1 61,1 

Main oil-pipelines 16,2 16,2 16,2 16,2 21.9 21,4 21,4 

Main gas-pipelines 34,6 32,3 35,8 31,2 31,2 39,7 39,7 

Firm-coated roads - total 217,0 217,1 217.1 217,1 217,1 217,4 218,3 

2009

Annex 8.1 



Species found in captivity or 

in ex situ conditions in Azerbaijan 47 

Scientific name Common name(s) IUCN 

listing 

CITES 

status 

National 

Threat 

Status 

Mammals 

Panthera leo (Linnaeus, 1758) Lion (Африка Асланы) VU C2a(i) II - 

Panthera tigris longipilis (Fitzinger, Siberian tiger, Siberian tiger EN C2a(i) I - 

1868) 

(Амур пялянэи) 

Puma concolor (Linnaeus, 1771) Mountain lion, Puma (Пума) NT II - 

Felis chaus (Schreber, 1777) Jungle cat (Гамыш пишийи) - II - 

Ursus arctos (Linnaeus, 1758) Brown bear (Гонур айы) - II - 

Ursus americanus (Pallas, 1780) American black bear, black bear 

(Гара айы) 

- II - 

Canis lupus (Linnaeus, 1758) Gray Wolf (Боз жанавар) - II - 

Papio hamadryas (Linnaeus, 1758) Hamadryas baboon, Sacred 

baboon (Павиан-гамадрил) 

LR/nt II - 

Chlorocebus aethiops (Linnaeus, Green monkey, Vervet monkey - II - 

1758) 

(Йашыл меймун) 

Macaca mulatta (Zimmermann, Rhesus macaque, Rhesus 

LR/nt II - 

1780) 

monkey (Макака резус) 

Cercopithecus cephus (Linnaeus, Moustached monkey 

- II - 

1758) 

(Мависифят меймун) 

Capra cylindricornis (Blyth, 1841) East Caucasian tur (Даьыстан VU - - 

туру) 

A1d+2de, 

C1 

Gazella subgutturosa (Güldenstädt, Goitred gazelle, Sand gazelle 

NT - Endangered 

1780) 

(Жейран) 

Lama guanacoe Llama (Лама гуанако) - II - 

Sciurus anomalus (Güldenstädt, Caucasian squirrel, Persian 

LR/nt - - 

1785) 

squirrel (Гафгаз (фарс) синжабы) 

Sciurus vulgaris (Linnaeus, 1758) 

Birds 

Eurasian red squirrel, Red 

squirrel (Ади синжаб) 

NT - - 

Struthio camelus (Linnaeus, 1758) Ostrich (Африка дявягушу) - I - 

Pelecanus crispus (Linnaeus, 1758) Dalmatian pelican (Гыврымляляк LR/cd I Rare, 

гутан) 

declining 

Platalea leucorodia leucorodia Spoonbill (Ярсиндимдик) - II Rare, 

declining. 

Phoenicopterus roseus( Pall., 1758) Flamingo (Гызыл газ) - II Rare, 

declining 

Alopochen aegyptiacus (Linnaeus, 

1766) 

Нил газы - - - 

Aix galericulata (Linnaeus, 1758) Мандарин юрдяк - - - 

Branta canadensis (Linnaeus, 1758) Canada goose (Канада 

казаркасы) 

- I - 

Porphyrio porphyrio (Linnaeus, 1758) Purple swamphen, purple - - Rare species. 

gallinule (Султан тойуьу) 

Circus cyaneus (Linnaeus, 1766) Hen harrier (Чямянлик - II - 


Circus aeruginosus Marsh harrier (Батаглыг - II - 

Aythya nyroca (Guldenstadt, 1770) 


Ferruginous duck, Ferruginous LR/nt III - 

47 Includes a number of foreign species which are of conservation importance, with nationally threatened 

species are identified in the final column. 

2009 

161



pochard, White-eyed porchard 

(Аьэюз дальыж) 

Aegypius monachus (Linnaeus, 1766) Black vulture, Cinereous Vulture 

(Гара гриф) 

LR/nt II - 

Aquila chrysaetus (Linnaeus, 1758) Aigle royal, golden eagle 

- II Rare, 

(Беркут) 

declining 

Aquila heliaca (Savigny, 1809) Spanish imperial eagle (Мязар VU C1 I Rare, 

гарталы) 

declining 

Aquila nipalensis (Hodgson, 1833) Чюл гарталы - II - 

Gyps fulvus (Hablizl, 1783) Griffon vulture (Аьбаш кяркяс) - II - 

Gypaetus barbatus (Linnaeus, 1758) Lammergeier, bearded vulture 

(Тоьлуэютцрян) 

- II Endangered 

Falco peregrinus (Tunstall, 1771) Peregrine falcon (Ади шащин 

- I Rare, 

(сапсан)) 

declining 

Buteo buteo (Linnaeus, 1758) Buzzard (Ади сар) - II - 

Neophron percnopterus (Linnaeus, Egyptian vulture (Лешйлдян - II - 

1758) 

гартал) 

Ara ararauna (Linnaeus, 1758) Ara (Ара тутугушу) II - 

Amazona albifrons (Sparrman, 1788) Аьбаш амазон - - 

Psittacula eupatria (Linnaeus, 1766) Бюйцкхалталы тутугушу - II - 

Psittacula krameri (Scopoli, 1769) Rose-ringed parakeet (Кичик - III - 

Poicephalus senegalus (Linnaeus, 

1766) 

халталы тутугушу) 

Сенегал тутугушу - II - 

Eos histrio (Muller, 1776) Red and blue lory (Эюй-гырмызы EN A2cd, II - 

лори тутугушу) 

B1+2abcde 

Psittacus erithagus Linnaeus, 1758 Ъако тутугушусу - II - 

Psephotus 

1838) 

haematonotus (Gould, Охуйан тутугушу - II - 

Chrysolophus pictus (Linnaeus, 1758) Гызыл гырьовул - - - 

Chrysolophus 

(Leadbeater, 1829) 

amherstiae Алмас гырьовулу - - - 

Lophura swinhoii (Gould, 1863) Swinhoe’s Pheasant (Тайван LR/nt I - 

Lophura leucomelana (Latham, 1790) 

гырьоиулу (Свайнo)) 

Непал гырьовулу - - - 

Bubo bubo (Linnaeus, 1758) 

Reptiles and amphibians 

Eagle owl (Ири йапалаь) - II - 

Python molurus bivittatus (Kuhl Asian rock python, Burmese LR/nt I - 

1820) 

python (Тцндпялянэи питон) 

Eunectes notaeus (Cope 1862) Yellow anaconda (Парагвай - II - 

Boa constrictor (Linnaeus, 1758) 

анакондасы) 

Boa constrictor (Император 

удавы) 

- II - 

Varanus niloticus (Fitzinger, 1826) Nile monitor (Нил вараны) - II - 

Testudo graeca ibera (Pallas, 1814) Common tortoise, Greek Tortoise 

(Аралыг дянизи тысбаьасы) 

Emys orbicularis (Blanford, 1876) European pond turtle (Батаглыг 

тысбаьасы) 

Caiman crocodilus (Conant & Common caiman (Тимсащвари 

Collins, 1991) 

кайман) 

162 

VU A1cd I Declining 

range and 

population 

- - - 

- II - 

2009

Annex 9.1 

Money spent in the frame of the nature protection 

163 



(thousand manat) 

№ Directions of the expenses 

Years 

2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 

1. Current expenses for the environment protection measures 

including 

11648.6 15192.0 21110.5 21395.8 26036.8 36007.8 61382.5 

• For the protection and rational utilization of the water 

stocks 

9817.1 10957.8 17590.3 17899.3 21024.6 28603.3 37732.6 

• For the protection of atmosphere air 1421.2 2196.2 2591.0 2100.3 2866.4 2562.1 2607.7 

• For the protection against waste matters of the 

manufacture and consumption 

346.4 818.7 383.4 971.2 1336.9 3698.9 11474.0 

• For the restoration of the soil 63.9 1219.3 545.8 425.0 808.9 1143.5 9568.2 

2. Expenses for the capital repairs of the main production 

funds on the environment protection 

1158.8 1743.2 1809.3 1860.8 1790.4 2978.1 5482.1 

3. Expenses for the support of reserves, protection and 

rehabilitation of wild animals 

321.3 434.8 398.4 1026.0 1544.4 2461.4 2882.5 

4. Operation expenses for forestry 444.0 367.7 2834.8 3710.8 4329.1 7275.0 7969.0 

5. Investment on the main capital directed to the rational 

utlization of the natural resources and environment 

protection 

including 

2404.9 2965.1 1911.3 2912.3 8879.4 55504.6 97885.5 

• On the protection and rational utilization of the water 

stocks 

944.7 1949.8 1706.5 1309.8 6838.1 18762.8 78830.2 

• On the protection of atmosphere air 1426.1 879.1 204.8 1503.9 1601.9 1091.8 929.6 

• On the protection and rational utilization of the soils 

• Investment to the other measures 

34.1 136.2 98.6 439.4 35650.0 18125.7 

Sum of expenses for all nature protection measures 16986.1 22230.1 28064.3 30905.7 42580.1 104226.9 175601.6 

2009

Annex 9.2 

Environmental NGO’s in Azerbaijan 

English Name Contact person Phone /Fax E-mail Address 

Alive Nature Azerbaijan Flora 

and Fauna Founders Club 

Ana Kur International 

Ecological Society 

Association for Control of the 

Human and Animal's Protozoons 

Azerbaijan Center for Protection 

of Birds 

Azerbaijan Demographers 

Association (ADA) 

Aynur Surkhayeva 69504, 

722771 

Sumgayit, 23, 17th 

District, apt. 34 

Israil Aliyev 567901 Ganja, 273, Ataturk 

Avenue 

Hamida Gayibova, 

Mehdi Aliyev 

935773 

Elchin Sultanov 927052, 

3161651 

gamida_gaib@hot 

mail.com 

sultanov@azeurot 

el.com 

Niyazi Mursagulov 711909 mursakulovnn@az 

net.org, 

mursakulov@hot 

mail.com 

Baki, 27, Azerbaijan av., 

apt.22 

Baki, 370073, passage 

1128, mehelle 504 

Baki, 63 a , M.Hadi, apt. 

97 

Azerbaijan Ecological Union Manaf 

396123 Baki, 28a, Inshaatchilar 

Suleymanov 

av., apt. 43 

Azerbaijan Green Movement Farida Huseynova, 3299391, Guseynovafk@azn Baki, 370001, 47/17, 

Khalid Aliyev 958939 et.org 

Istiglaliyyet str. 

Branches in Mingechevir 

and Sumgayit. 

Azerbaijan National Committee Magbet Mamedov, 474068, farda@azerin.com Baki, 370148, 23 

on International Hydrologist Farda Imanov 390501, 

Khalilov academician 

Program 

673156 

str., Baki State 

Azerbaijan Society of Study of Aydin Eyvazov, 920882, 

University 

Baki, 27 U.Hajibeyov 

Local Lore 

Seyran Veliyev 987903, 

987903 

str. 

Azerbaijan Society of Zoologists Musa Musayev, 397371, zoology@deacs.ab Baki, 370073, 1128 

Barat Akhmedov, 397359, .az 

block, pass 504 

Tahir Kerimov 917783 

Azerbaijan Society for Protection 

of Animals 

Caucasus Int'l Center of Study of 

Local Lore & Ecotourism 

Cultural Ecological Center Goy 

Gurshagy 

Azer Garayev, 

Gunduz Rahimov 

940304, (850) 

125089 

Elchin Orujev 712468, 

3271273 

Dalga Charitable Society Seyidzadeh M., 

Ahmedov I. 

aspa@azintex.com Baki, 370014, 53, Fizuly 

str., apt. 96; Branch in 

Kazahstan 

cavcin@azdata.net Baki, 370123, 26, 

R.Mamedov, apt.154 

Ismayil Sadikhly 42294 Sheki 20, 5 Sary Torpag 

str., pereulok 4 

766365 Baki, 95, Babek av., apt. 

54. Branch in 

Mingechevir 

Eco-TES Chingiz Nazarov 61598 ekotes@mail.ru Mingechevir, 1, Y. 

Ecolex - Azerbaijan Samir Isayev, 683359, Ecolex@azdata.ne 

Mansurov str., apt. 16 

Baki, 4th district, 29a, 

Environmental Law Center Sevil Isayeva 3121439, 

683359 

t 

Javadkhan str., apt. 99 

Ecological Biophysics Ralfrid Hasanov 398608 Baki, 40, Patamdar road 

(2, Metbuat av.), Botany 

Institute 

International Youth Ecological Valida 

776184, azimovar@aznet.o Baki, 370001, 47, 

Center 

Khanbabayeva, Ali 

Azimov 

204537 rg 

Istiglaliyat str., apt. 17 

Ecological Fund Elshad Mamedov (22) 573578, 

575660 

azti@ganca.net Ganja, 103, 28 May str. 

Ecological Problems Research Kamran 

760042 ngo@isar-az.org Baki, 36, Ganja av., apt. 

Center 

Mahmudov 

35 

Ecology and Health Gulnara 

33827, 34461 Khachmaz, 74, 

Agarahimova 

Narimanov str. 

Ecology Teachers Charitable Suveyrat 

710609 Baki, 22b, Zikh road, 

Society 

Hasanova, Elmira 

Gabulova 

apt. 129 

Ecopark Organization Hikmet Salahov, 

sum@sec.sumgait. Sumgayit, 373200, 16, 

Arif Islamzade 

az 

Nizamy str.

Ecores Information Analytic 

Environmental Agency 

Rafig Verdiyev 958368, 

951223, 

983181, 

929961 

ECOS - Ecological Stability Ayten Poladova 951247, 

316589 

Ecosaf Rasim Aliyev 237778, 

552783, (855) 

7781923 

Ecosphere Social Ecological Firuza Sultanzade, 924348, 

Center 

Zuleykha Aliyeva 3320034 

165 

Country Study on Biodiversity and First National Report 


ecores@iatp.baku. 

az 

fidan8@azintex.co 

m 

rasimaliyev@yahoo.co 

m 

ecosphera@azeuro 

tel.com 

Baki 370002, 157 Sh. 

Azizbekov str., apt. 23 

Baki, 370014, 54, Bul- 

Bul Avenue 

Baki, 14, A.Manafov 

str., apt.36 

Baki, 3, Lermontov str., 

apt. 61 

Ekoil - Scientific Ecological Muslim Gurbanov 941214 mgurbanov@hotm Baki, 370014, 31a, H. 

Society 

ail.com 

Javid av. 

Elsevenler Society Chingiz Verdiyev 32145 Ganja, 80, Ozan str. 

Fevgal Association of Specialists Habib Ojagov, 390775, Fovgal@azeronlin Baki, 370073, 5, Ayna 

on Emergency Situations and Gayibeli 

395452 e.com 

Sultanova 

Security of Human Life Activity Hajimetov 

For Clean Caspian Sea Yegana Mehdi 758946 Yeganam@yahoo. 

com 

Public Ecological Foundation 

named after Gasan Aliyev 

Golden Beehive Beekeepers 

Society 

Baki, 21, Hojaly str., 

apt.6 

Garib Mamedov 392261 Baki 370073, 31 G. 

Javid av. 

Yevdokiya 

Khanbeyova, Kh. 

Aliyev, G. 

Huseynzade 

924686, 

3468917 

goldenhive@hotm 

ail.com 

Baki, 370004, 15, 1st 

Yasr povorot, apt. 2 

Gyulyum Irada Guliyeva 975291, 21century@azdata Baki, 2 bulvar, 5b 

902292 .net 

Mamedyarov str., apt.18 

Healthy Society Group Aydin Samedov 614540 Baki, 3a S.Akhundov 

str., apt. 7 

Human and Environment Ismayil Ismayilov 973867 ismayilov@bak.ne Baki, 370001, 29/3, 

t.az 

Mukhtarov str. 

Independent Ecology & Tural Jamalov, 267057, max-asif@usa.net Baki, Bakikhanov 

Economics Organization Asif Makhmudov 268578 

settlement., bloc # 4083, 

2, apt.27 

Intellect Regional Humanitarian Tahir Novruzov, 25773, 25165 Shamkir, 8 M. Sabir str. 

Ecological Education Center Zahid Abbasov 

Kur-Khazar Charity Society T. Mehdiyeva, B. 

Mikayilov 

663156, 

981179, 

907227 

Baki, 38, Gadirbeyova 

str. Branches in 

Neftchala, Ganja, Salyan 

Lapirchy Alkhan Garayev 973103 Shamakhy region, 

Galaybugurd village 

Mother nature Natural Hygiene 

Center 

National Center of Environmental 

Forecasting 

Arshad Azimov 52137, 

3168197 

school 

Guba, 2a, Fatalykhan 

str., apt 39 

Telman Zeynalov 945342 Baki, 13, Mirza Aga 

Aliyev str., apt. 14 

Nature and Society Sammadin 52232 Guba, 21, Fataly khan 

Hajialiyev 

str. 

Our House Caucasus Firuza Amirova, 406330, ourhome@azdata. Baki 370025, 45/57, 

International Children Ecological 

Union 

Rufat Alekperov 955994, (855) 

7826165, 

922327 

net; 

www.azer.web.co 

m/ourhome/ 

Nobel av. Branches in 

Ali-Bayramli and 

Nakhichevan. 

Protection of the Natural Reyhan Aslanova 660 Khachmaz, Yalama 

Resources Society 

village 

Rostok (Sprout) Garib Akhmedov 315575 Baki, 4 microrayon, 13, 

Jabiyev str., apt. 6 

Ruzgar Ecological Social Union Islam Mustafayev 769801, IMustafaev@iatp. Baki, 370119, 124/128, 

394113 baku.az 

G.Garayev str. 

Azerbaijan Society for Protection Sabir Israfilov, 697357, (850) isabir@azdata.net Baki, 7 M/district, 5, 

of Nature 

Chingiz 

3396998 

S.Sani Akhundov str., 5. 

Mageramov, Samir 

Branches in 36 regions 

Isayev 


Society for Protection of Farmers Solmaz Asadova, (172) 71292, 

Khachmaz, Resource 

Rights 

Eyvaz Javadov, 33025 

Center, Gimil Gimlag 

Hadija Eldarova 

village 

2009

Chinar Society for Protection of 

Flora and Fauna 

Sorge Children Care Charity 

Society 

South Eco-SOS Society for 

Nature Protection 

TETA Hazri Public Association 

for Development and Research 

World is our home Peace and 

Travelling Center 

Yashil Dalga Youth Ecological 

Center 

166 



Vugar Mehdiyev 714022 Baki, 36 Abilov str., 

apt.1 

Tamara 

Dadasheva, Aygun 

Shahbazova, 

Valida Aliyeva 

312201, 

943810, 

300034, (850) 

3137299 

Elvin Sadigov (171) 47907, 

(850) 3642899 

Lydiya Gulizadeh 680351, 

3362648 

Haji Hajiyev, 

Orkhan Eyyubov 

Salman 

Suleymanov 

Yashil Dunya (Green World) Elmar Babayev, 

Ilgar Zeynalov 

931438 

azsorge@bakinter. 

net 

el_len_eco@yaho 

o.com 

Baki, 79, Zardabi str. 

Lenkoran, 90, Nizami 

str. 

azgeog@geo.ab.az Baki, 3 microrayon, 28, 

Javadkhan str., apt. 37 

far@monitor.baku. 

az 

Baki, 3, R.Behbutov str. 

235121 Baki, B. Chobanzadeh, 

41-2 

319128, 

2131652, 

3208683 

Lbey@excite.com 

Baki, 68 A. Maharramov 

Str., apt. 102 

Young Agrobusiness Association Azer Humbetov 67652, 57838 Ganja, 15, Ganja str. 

International Youth 

Environmental Center 

Vafa Jafarova, 

Rasim Ashumov 

776184, 

204537, 

677791 

Human and Peace Irada Mikayilova 51450, (850) 

3281381 

Ozone Social Ecological Public Azad 

(850) 3350174 

Union 

Allahverdiyev . 

Damiragach Public Ecological 

Union 

Sabir Suleymanov, 

Novruz Guliyev 

Mammalogists of Azerbaijan I. Rakhmatulina, 

Development of Mountain 

E. Askerov 

Jahangir Najafov, 

Regions of Azerbaijan 

Dilara Veliyeva 

Public Union For the Sake of 

Health Environment 

Scientific Research Institute on 

Prognosis and Studying of 

Earthquakes 

Public Union of Information and 

Technical Support to the 

Development of Entrepreneurship 

Public Union of Creative 

Intelligentsia Seyyah RITM 

Public Union of Assistance to the 

Development of Entrepreneurship 

Eko-Ay 

Public Union for Protection of 

Nature Dalga 

Public 

Environment 

Union Health 

Sheki branch of the Union of 

Afghanistan Veterans of The 

Republic of Azerbaijan 

Rahim Kalantarov, 

Vugar Aliyev, 

Enver Rustamov 

Elchin Khalilov, 

Abbas Guvalov 

Anar Garibov, 

Fahraddin 

Ibrahimov 

Gurban Dostalizade, 

Rafail 

Hasanov 

370001, Baki, 31 

Istiglaliyyet 

floor 

str., 5-th 

Guba city, 68, Sulh 

Avenue 

Guba region, Hajigayib 

village 

42445 Lenkoran, 63, Koroglu 

Street 

953312 zoology@dcacs.ab 

.az 

948654, 

978775, 

3219880, 

958662 

Baki, 127, S. Askerova 

Street 

adria@yahoo.com Baki, 56, J. 

Mamedguluzade Street, 

apt. 9 

54264 Lenkoran, 31, Mir 

Mustafa-han Street, apt. 

6 

981415, 

938400 

931153 

Ilgar Namazov (22) 562346, 

564259, 

561677, (22) 

enitech@yahoo.co 

m 

sitiyar@hotmail.c 

om 

Baki, Nasimi district, 18, 

Mardanov gardashlary 

Street 

Baki, 16/7, U. Hajibeyov 

Street 

399838 Baki, N. Narimanov 

Street, house 2, tupic 1 

532346 

Natig Hatamov (154) 55537, 

(850) 3455842 

ilgarn@mail.ru Ganja, 90/81, S.I.Khatai 

Avenue 

Imishli region, 25, Fizuli 

Street 

Zemfira Sadikhova 624880 Baki, 

Avenue 

33/40 Ataturk 

Nazim Yusifov, 43894, 48891 Sheki city, 175, 

Vugar Ilyasov 

M.E.Rasulzade Street 

Nature and Person Kamil Ilyasov 54105, (850) 

3146358 

Guba, 2a, Vagif Street 

Shafag Ecoturism Union Ali Dovlatov 40731 Lenkoran, 48, Sattarhan 

Street 

Objective Public Organization of Heydar Gasimov, (850) 3284457 obyektiv@yahoo.c Lenkoran, 3, Tofik 

Artists 

Nazim Gubadov 

om 

Ismayilov Street, Floor 4 

2009

167 



Dirchelish Eynulla 

Kheyrullayev 

51450 Guba, 68 Sulh Avenue 

Caspian Children Ecological Elnara 

766306, 

Baki, 6, Ahmed Javad 

Club 

Asadullayeva 388580 

Street, apt. 58 

Union of Women-Journalist Gulnaz Bagvanova 396072 Baki, 87a, Javid Avenue, 

Ecologists 

apt. 740 

Hayajan Nature Protection and 

Rehabilitation Organization 

Organization of Protection of 

Environment "Soil" 

Social Ecological Association 

Green Way 

Tahir Aydinov 924591 zootair@bakuaz.net 

Hikmat Mamedov (171) 53104 hikmatbodybuilder@hot 

Vadim Garayev, 

N. Mustafayev, R. 

Ahmedov 

Ganja Agrobusiness Association Amin Babayev, 

Vugar Babayev, 

Vugar Agayev 

936111, (850) 

3126905 

mail.com 

Baki, 39, Bakihanov Str. 

Lenkoran city, 18, M.E. 

Rasulzade Street 

Baki, 130, M. Alizade 

Str. 

569400 gaba@ganca.net Ganja, 24, Ganja Street 

2009

CBD Fourth National Report - Azerbaijan (English version)

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