Abstract. The vegetation cover constitutes the composition of the biocenosis and reflects the changes occurring in the natural environment as a result of human activity. Thus, plant communities are subjected to degradation due to anthropogenic factors and technogenic impacts. In this context, the deterioration of the ecological condition of riparian forests leads to disruptions in the ecosystem and necessitates the study of their phytosociological characteristics for the conservation of the vegetation cover.Riparian forests characteristic of forest vegetation have been studied in the Kura-Araxes lowland, as well as in the territory of the Agjabadi district of the Karabakh-Mil plain (riparian forests along the Kura River). The study site or object of the riparian forest within this region was chosen to be the area near the village of Nejafqulubeyli, along the Kura River, following the Kura bridge on the Zardab-Agjabadi highway. Here, riparian forests are encountered in alluvial-meadow type soils in bands alon the Kura River. As is known, the floods that continue from the beginning of spring to the middle of summer fill the “axmaz” (non-flowing water bodies) with water, providing a normal moisture source for plants. Thus, the conversion of areas where riparian forests along the Kura are found into agricultural lands for the cultivation of crops leads to salinization and desertification of these areas. Regarding this issue, the riparian forests along the Kura River in the territory of the Agjabadi district have been poorly studied by botanists.

Abstract. The article characterizes the psammophyte-littoral species Cakile euxina Pobed, which has recently appeared in Azerbaijan. Data are given on the distribution of the species along the coastal strip, vegetation, and plant communities with the participation of the species are described.The main concentration of the species is observed in the northern, bordering Russia (Dagestan)part of the coastal strip. It has been established that Argusiya sibirica + Convolvolis persica is a characteristic community for Сakile euxina in all parts of the Caspian Sea since both species areecologically confined to the same sandy habitats as the object of our study. In addition to participationin this main community, Сakile euxina in the northern part is found in the communities of Artemisiaannua + Сonvolvulus persica, Melilotus oficinalis + Artemisia annua, Xanthium strumarium +Сakile euxina, Salicorniaeuropea + Suaeda confusa, Salsola tragus + Convolvolis persica, Artemisiaarenaria + Herbosa, in central Astragalus ign arius + Calligonum bakuense, Juncus acutus + Elaegnus angustifoliа, Salicornia europea + Suaeda confusa, and in the south - mainly in the above-mentioned community and in various forb groups. It has been established that C. euxina actively participates in annual saltwort communities dominated by Suaeda confuza Iljin, common in areas with wet sandsand sandstones, typical for the northern and central parts of the coast. For C. euxina, the optimalsoil moisture conditions were found, which are in the range of 45-75%. Monitoring observationshave shown that at present the plant is under the strongest influence of human economic activity.The organization of numerous beach areas, cafes, hotels and other residential complexes limit the range of the species in the coastal strip of the republic.

Abstract. In this study, the flora of Tırıl Mountain, located in Andırın district of Kahramanmaraş province, was investigated. The research area is also located on C6 square by P.H.DAVIS’s grid system for Türkiye. The area is also on the route of the BTC (Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan) pipeline. The mountain’s elevation starts from 900 m and rises to 1850 m to the top. The climate of the areais Mediterranean climate type but altitude affects the precipitation periods and types. The majorsoil type is red-brown forest soil. Research material is the plant samples which are collectedfrom the research area between the years 2010 and 2014. According to the results of the study,503 taxa were described from 61 families, 285 genera. A percentage of 12,92 which contains 65species are Endemic. Distribution by phytogeographic regions of taxa is as follows: 86 (%17,09) ofMediterranean elements, 86 (%17,09) of Irano-Turanien elements, 30 (%5,96) of Europea-SiberianElements, 78 (%15,50) of widespread and 223 (%44,33) are multi-regio. The major family by the genera is Asteraceae with 41 genera, major genera by the species is Vicia with 10 species. Results of the study show a correlation with previous studies from nearby areas.

Abstract. To produce national brands from local grape varieties that meet the modern requirements and interests of producers, it is necessary to organize rapid propagation and planting of local and introduced grape varieties by selecting rootstocks using biotechnological methods. Therapid development of viticulture, and the successful implementation of economic, agrotechnical,agrochemical, protective, and other measures largely depend on the correct choice of grapevarieties when planting vineyards. To develop competitive viticulture, obtain environmentallyfriendly products, and solve the problem of environmental cleanliness of vineyards, winegrowingscientists are doing a lot of work to create high-yielding and high-quality grape varieties. To developviticulture, as a rule, when planting vineyards, seedlings of zoned and promising valuable grapevarieties are used. In addition to rooted seedlings, it is advisable to use grafted planting material inphylloxera-infected areas.

Abstract. The ontogenetic and bioecological evaluation of senescent populations of rare and endangered plant species in the Republic is of significant importance for the conservation of wild flora. This article is dedicated to an in-depth examination of the bioecology of Juniperus foetidissima Willd. This particular species is noteworthy, as it has been included in the Red Book of Azerbaijan due to its threatened status. The study encompasses various aspects of the species’ life cycle, habitat requirements, reproductive patterns, and interactions with the surrounding ecosystem. By understanding these factors, we aim to promote effective conservation strategies and raise awareness about the importance of protecting this rare species in its native environment. Additionally, this research could provide insights that are applicable to other endangered species within the region, ensuring a broader impact on biodiversity conservation efforts. The Juniperus foetidissima Willd. is an important part of the arid sparseforests in Azerbaijan, characterized by their unique dual nature. Some groups of plants in these forests rely on the essential qualities of the tree layer, while others form independent associations.

Abstract. Mud volcanoes are widespread across many countries worldwide, yet the vegetation associated with these formations in Azerbaijan remains insufficiently studied. The dynamic processes occurring on mud volcanoes significantly influence their vegetation, highlighting the need for detailed floristic and geobotanical research. The study of mud volcanism in relation to vegetation is currently highly specialized and fragmented.For the first time in Azerbaijan, the species composition of the Gyzmeidan mud volcano, situatedin the eastern part of the Greater Caucasus botanical and geographical area, has been thoroughly analyzed. Research conducted between 2018 and 2023 identified 90 species from 81 genera and 33 families. The most represented families were Asteraceae (Giseke) with 14 species (16%) and Poaceae (Barnhart) with 8 species (9%). Three rare species were documented: Ophrys oestrifera M. Bieb., Pyrus salicifolia Pall., and Rosa pulverulenta M. Bieb.The study revealed that the vegetation cover becomes more abundant and diverse with increasing distance from the eruptive center of the volcano. Life form analysis indicated that 44 species are perennial herbaceous plants, while 31 are annuals. Ombrophytes, characterized by shallow root systems that utilize precipitation, dominate with 64 species, while phreatophytes and trichohydrophytes account for 10 and 16 species, respectively. These findings provide essential insights into the ecological dynamics of mud volcano flora.

Abstract. Fungal diseases have emerged as one of the most critical challenges in viticulture, significantly reducing grape yield and quality. Among these, downy mildew, caused by the fungus Plasmopara viticola (Berk. & Berl. & de Toni), poses a severe threat to global grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) production, leading to substantial crop losses. The disease not only limits grapevine growth but also negatively affects the quality of harvested grapes, thereby impacting wine and table grape industries.This study aimed to evaluate the resistance of grapevine genotypes to downy mildew through a natural field survey. Resistance assessments were conducted using the method developed by H.M. Shikhlinsky (2016) and a refined 5-point scale (as described by Naydenova & Nedov, 1985). To ensure result accuracy, infected leaf samples from each genotype were microscopically examined, and pathogen identification was confirmed following Benkena’s methodology (1963). Data obtained from field trials were subjected to Cluster Analysis to classify the genotypes based on their resistance levels.The analysis revealed that 3 genotypes were highly resistant, 21 were resistant, 10 were tolerant, 5 were susceptible, and 1 was highly susceptible. Notably, the genotypes Sahibi, Gulabi, and Tulkuquyrugu were categorized as highly resistant, indicating their potential as valuable candidates for breeding programs aimed at enhancing resistance to P. viticola. The study underscores the importance of utilizing highly resistant and resistant genotypes in grapevine breeding initiatives to mitigate the economic and agricultural impacts of downy mildew.

Abstract. A newly discovered natural hybrid, Campanula xkusadasiensis (Campanulaceae: subgenus Campanula, sect. Quinqueloculares), from Kuşadası province (Aydın, Turkey) in western Anatolia, is described and illustrated. This hybrid was identified during field studies and conservation projects, distinguishing itself from its parental taxa, C. lyrata subsp. lyrata and C. hagielia, by morphological differences such as its softly hirsute stems, ovate-cordate basal leaves, and infundibular corolla shape. The hybrid’s micromorphological characters, including seed coat ornamentation and pollen structure, were analyzed using SEM and compared to its parents. The ecological preferences of C. xkusadasiensis indicate a restricted distribution on calcareous rocks within maquis habitats. Its conservation status is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) due to limited population size, restricted area of occupancy (AOO < 10 km²), and ongoing anthropogenic pressures. This study provides comprehensive data on the hybrid’s taxonomy, habitat, micromorphology, and conservation needs, contributing valuable insights into hybridization within Campanula and supporting biodiversity preservation efforts in western Anatolia.

Abstract. This study underscores the significance of exploring and studying wild cereal species,with a focus on wild barley, revealing diverse hotspots in Azerbaijan. Expeditions identified regions of high biological diversity and potential threats such as overgrazing and uneven precipitation. Over200 wild barley accessions, including hybrid forms, were collected, showcasing the versatility of these wild ancestors. The gathered accessions underwent multi-year analysis at the Absheron Experimental Base of GRI, revealing variations in germination time (164 to 186 days), resistance levelsto powdery mildew (5-9 points), and yellow rust. Sheaf and spike analysis identified 346 fractions,exposing genotypic variations in plant height (110 to 170 cm), ear shape, glume color, awns, andseeds. Following five years of study and propagation, 337 wild barley samples were transferred tothe National Genebank. The study emphasizes the ongoing exploration and preservation of genetic resources in wild barley, essential for enhancing cultivated varieties and developing tolerance to heat, drought, and salt stress.

Absract. The effect of sodium chloride on the physiological and biochemical parameters of wheat and maize genotypes, the identification of salinity-resistant varieties was studied. The objects ofthe study were parental and hybrid wheat forms grown under normal and salinity (0,98 % NaCl) conditions. To create new salt-tolerant varieties of wheat and maize, a comparative analysis ofthe physiological parameters of the parental and hybrid plants was carried out. Physiologicalparameters such as chlorophyll content, relative water content, and PSII activity have been studiedin parental forms and hybrids. When studying salt-tolerance of hybrids and parental forms,differences were detected in the relative amounts of chlorophyll (a+b), carotenoids, RWC, as wellas the photochemical activity of chloroplasts. The effect of salt on the amount of chlorophyll a,chlorophyll b, and carotenoids, which are the main physiological indicators, is manifested indifferent ways in both hybrids and parental forms. Negative effects of salt stress were observed in the content of photosynthetic pigments, photochemical activity of PS II and RWC in parental and hybrid forms. The content of chl a, chl b, the activity of PSII, RWC and grain yield were higher in theparental forms, Garabagh, Gobustan, Barakatli-95, and in the hybrids, ♀Garabagh×♂Gobustan,♀Barakatli-95×♂Gobustan, ♀Gobustan×♂Gyrmyzygul-1 and ♀Garabagh×♂Mirbashir-128. Due tothese advantages, using these varieties for future research The object of research was also thegenotypes of maize Zagatala-420, Zagatala-514, Zagatala-68, Gurur and first generation F1 hybrid Zagatal-68×Gurur. Plant seeds germinated under laboratory conditions in Petri dishes and pots withsoil using 150 mmol of sodium chloride solution.At concentrations of NaCl solutions of 150 and 200 mmol decreased seed germination, pigmentscontent, and photosystem II activity in seedlings of maize genotypes. Varieties Gurur and Zagatala-68and hybrid Gurur×Zagatala-68 were resistant to 200 mmol salt concentration.