Features of the Interannual and Seasonal Dynamics of the Ecological State of Salt Lakes under the Arid Climate of Crimea

摘要

Abstract Unique lakes of various genesis are found on the Crimean Peninsula, which have a high recreational and balneological potential. They are under a significant anthropogenic load, which, along with the arid climate, leads to negative consequences for the ecosystems and even to the loss of biological and hydro-mineral resources. More than this, the closely located water bodies can differ significantly due to differences in human activities. Lake Moinaki on the western outskirts of Yevpatoria is divided by a sand barrier into two reservoirs, Moinaki-1 (larger) and Moinaki-2 (smaller). The aim of this work was to study some physicochemical parameters of water (temperature, pH, oxygen content, salinity, and redox potential, Еh) and Artemia population (Artemia salina (L, 1758)) in these water bodies in 2018–2020. The seasonal dynamics of the studied parameters has been characterized by an increase in salinity and Eh in summer resulted from an increase in air and water temperature and its intense evaporation. Simultaneously, a decrease in oxygen content and as well as in pH levels has been observed. The identified features were more pronounced in Moinaki-2 than in Moinaki-1. Artemia cysts were found in both reservoirs, while nauplii and adults were found only in Moinaki-2 in 2020, after drying and subsequent restoration of the hydrological regime of the water body.