ЖОҒАРҒЫ ЕРТІС БАССЕЙНІНДЕГІ ШАҒЫН ӨЗЕНДЕРДІҢ ИХТИОФАУНАСЫ ЖӘНЕ ЭКОЛОГИЯЛЫҚ ЖАҒДАЙЫ

Саттыкличева А.К*., Сапарғалиева Н.С.

doi:10.37238/2960-1371.2960-138X.2026.101(1).46

Саттыкличева А.К*., Сапарғалиева Н.С. әл-Фараби атындағы ҚазҰУ

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37238/2960-1371.2960-138X.2026.101(1).46

Keywords: Upper Irtysh, ichthyofauna, small rivers, invasive species, transboundary water policy, hydrological regime, ecological condition.

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the species composition, distribution patterns, and current ecological status of small rivers in the Upper Irtysh Basin (Zhinishkesu, Kendirlik, Kandysu, Beyittibulak etc.). Drawing on scientific literature, the research examines channel morphological alterations, instability of the hydrological regime, the spread of invasive species, and the impact of anthropogenic pollution factors on fish populations.

An important issue of transboundary water policy is also addressed - namely, the fact that the People’s Republic of China has not entered into a trilateral agreement with Kazakhstan and Russia regarding the use of Irtysh waters, relying instead on bilateral arrangements. Increasing water withdrawal in China due to expanding irrigated agriculture and industrial development reduces inflow to small rivers. This trend complicates the seasonal flow dynamics and intensifies processes such as river shallowing, rising water temperatures, and declining oxygen levels. Consequently, the habitats of relict and low-tolerance fish species shrink, and their population numbers decrease.

The collected data provide a foundation for developing recommendations aimed at preserving the stability of ecosystems in the Upper Irtysh Basin, improving water resource management, and protecting transboundary watercourses.