Natural resources of Central Asia. Minerals of Asia

Asia is the world's largest part of the world and occupies about 30% of the Earth's land area. In addition, it is the leader in population (approximately 60% of the total population of the planet).

Asia's share of the global market has increased significantly over the past half century. Today, some Asian countries are leading producers in agriculture, forestry, fish farming, industry and mining. This production influenced the economic growth certain countries, and at the same time, led to a number of negative consequences for the environment.

Water resources

Fresh water

Lake Baikal, located in southern Russia, is the deepest lake in the world, reaching a depth of 1,620 meters. The lake contains 20% unfrozen fresh water world, making it the largest reservoir on Earth. It is also the oldest lake in the world, dating back over 25 million years.

The Yangtze is the longest river in Asia and the third longest in the world (after the Amazon in South America and the Nile in Africa). Reaching 6,300 km in length, the Yangtze moves east from the glaciers of the Tibetan Plateau and flows into the East China Sea. The Yangtze is considered the lifeblood of China. The river covers 1/5 of the country's territory and is home to one third of the country's population, and also contributes significantly to the growth of the Chinese economy.

The Tigris and Euphrates rivers rise in the mountains of eastern Turkey and flow through Syria and Iraq before emptying into the Persian Gulf. The land between the two rivers, known as Mesopotamia, was the center of the earliest civilizations, including Sumer and Akkad. Today, the Tigris and Euphrates river system is under threat due to increasing agricultural and industrial use. This pressure has caused desertification and increased salt levels in the soil, and has caused severe damage to local watersheds.

Salty water

The Persian Gulf has an area of ​​more than 239 thousand km². It washes Iran, Oman, United United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Iraq. The Persian Gulf experiences high rates of evaporation, making the water shallow and the water very salty. The seabed of the Persian Gulf contains approximately 50% of the world's oil reserves. Countries bordering the Gulf have been involved in a number of disputes over the extraction of this valuable resource.

The Sea of ​​Okhotsk covers 1.6 million km² and is located between the Russian mainland and Kamchatka. Typically, the sea is covered with ice between October and March. Large areas of ice make movement by sea almost impossible.

The Bay of Bengal is the largest bay in the world, covering almost 2.2 million km². It borders Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka and Burma. Many major rivers, including the Ganges and Brahmaputra, flow into this bay.

Forest resources

The forest cover of Asia is about 20%. The largest number of forests, relative to the area of ​​the country, is concentrated in: Laos (71.6%), Japan (67.0%), Bhutan (64.5%), South Korea (64.0%), Myanmar (63.6%) And North Korea(63.3%). Forest cover of less than 1% is found in the following countries: Yemen (0.9%), Bahrain (0.7%), Kuwait (0.3%), Afghanistan (0.3%), Qatar (0%).

Forestry is an important sector of the Asian economy, but has negative consequences in some countries. More than half of the territory of China, Indonesia and Malaysia is covered by forest resources. China is considered a major exporter of wood products and ranks first in the world in the production of panels, paper and wooden furniture. Indonesia and Malaysia are the main producers of tropical wood products. Tropical woods such as teak are mainly used to make high-quality furniture and flooring.

Over the past 10 years, forest cover in Asia has increased by 30 million hectares. It's connected with artificial creation forest areas, thanks to which you can get more high yields and use them in industry. It is believed that by 2020, Asia's forestry industry will account for about 45% of production. In addition, artificial plantations are extremely important from an environmental point of view, since natural forest resources are being depleted every year in huge quantities.

Asia's rapid population growth has created increased demand for forest products, and lenient legislation has led to illegal logging and smuggling flourishing. The damage is especially noticeable in the South East Asia, where highly valuable tree species grow. Therefore, Asian countries have some of the worst deforestation rates in the world.

Land resources

The total land area of ​​Asia is 44,580,000 km², and the area of ​​land resources used in the national economy is 30,972,803 km². Agricultural lands occupy 52.2% (of which: arable land - 15.8%, perennial plantings - 2.2%, pastures and meadows - 34.2), forest lands - 18%, surface water - 2.9% , and other lands - 26.9%.

The five countries of Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan) are the most agricultural states in this part of Asia. Arable land that is suitable for growing crops accounts for about 20% of the total agricultural land area. More than 80% of arable land in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan is irrigated, but in Kazakhstan only 7%.

In Northern Asia (which largely consists of the Asian part of Russia), arable land accounts for 60-80% of agricultural land area.

In South Asia, the largest areas of arable land are concentrated in India and Bangladesh - more than 30%.

In the countries of the Middle East, namely Iran and Iraq, arable land accounts for less than 20%, and in other countries - no more than 10%.

Arable lands in East Asian countries, including China, South Korea and Japan, occupy no more than 20% of agricultural land. land, in the DPRK - less than 30% and Mongolia no more than 10%.

In Southeast Asia, arable land occupies no more than 30% of agricultural land.

Mineral resources

Coal

Asia is home to a huge amount of coal, accounting for almost 3/5 of the world's reserves, but it is unevenly distributed. The largest deposits are located in Siberia, Central Asia, India and especially China; Indonesia, Japan and North Korea have smaller coal reserves.

Oil and natural gas

At least 2/3 of the world's known oil and natural gas reserves are in Asia; the number of deposits may increase as Siberia, the Caspian Basin and the seas of Southeast Asia are still being explored. Many islands bordering Southeast Asia have geological formations that are favorable for gas and oil deposits. The largest oil reserves are found in Western Asia (Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Iran, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates). The remaining countries in Southwest Asia have limited oil reserves, and the Indian subcontinent has small oil fields.

Uranium ore

The richest deposits of uranium ores are located in Kyrgyzstan, between the Osh region and the Tuya Muyun mountain range. China and India have their own reserves. Chinese uranium deposits are believed to be located in the Xinjiang region and Hunan province.

Iron

Many regions of Asia have iron ore deposits, but not every country has its own domestic reserves. South Korea, Taiwan, Sri Lanka and several smaller countries in Southwest Asia have small iron ore reserves. Japan has fewer reserves of this mineral resource than the iron and steel industry requires, so the country is heavily dependent on imports. Thailand, Myanmar and Pakistan have good reserves of relatively low-grade iron ore, and Vietnam and Turkey have good ore in significant quantities. Indonesia and India have large reserves of high-quality iron, which are distributed wisely.

Although China was previously considered poor in iron ore, huge deposits of this mineral of various grades have been discovered in the country. China is currently one of the world's largest producers of iron ore.

Smaller deposits were located in several places in Eastern Siberia. In Central Asia, the main deposits are located in Eastern Kazakhstan.

Nickel

Nickel reserves in Asia are not significant. There are small reserves in Norilsk and north-central Siberia; Indonesia, China and the Philippines also have nickel reserves.

Chromium

Chromium deposits are concentrated in Turkey, India, Iran, Pakistan and the Philippines, as well as in northwestern Kazakhstan.

Manganese

There are large reserves of manganese in Transcaucasia, Central Asia, Siberia and India; Chinese deposits are also significant.

Tungsten

Southern China has exceptionally large tungsten deposits. Tungsten deposits in Central Asia are as significant as molybdenum.

Copper

Asia is not rich in copper. In Central Asia, the main reserves are located southeast of Tashkent (Uzbekistan); from Zhezkazgan to the west of Karaganda; and from Kungrad to Lake Balkhash (Kazakhstan). In Siberia, deposits are mainly concentrated in Kuzbass. The Philippines has limited copper reserves.

Tin

Significant tin deposits extend from southwestern China to the Malay Peninsula. Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos, and Yunnan in China also have tin deposits. Siberia has significant deposits in Transbaikalia, as well as in Sikhote-Alin in the Far East.

Lead and zinc

The largest reserves of lead and zinc are located in Kuzbass, Central and Eastern Kazakhstan. China also has rich deposits of zinc and lead, and North Korea has significant lead deposits.

Bauxite

Asia has huge reserves of bauxite. The largest deposits are located in Kazakhstan and the Sayans. There are also large deposits in India, Indonesia, Turkey, Malaysia and China.

Precious metals

Many Asian countries have mined gold from alluvial deposits in past centuries, and some continue to do so today. Small amounts of gold ore are found in Myanmar, Cambodia and Indonesia, as well as along the upper Yangtze River. Previously, India had large deposits of gold, but now many of them have been exhausted. North and South Korea, Taiwan and the Philippines have significant reserves of ore gold. Siberian gold reserves are currently significant.

Non-metallic minerals

Asbestos reserves are found in abundance in China, South Korea, and also on the eastern slope of the Middle Urals. Mica is found in large quantities in Eastern Siberia and India. Asia has huge reserves of rock salt. There are significant deposits of sulfur and gypsum in Central and Western Asia. Japan has large deposits of sulfur. There are phosphate deposits in Kazakhstan. Diamonds are formed in the central and eastern parts of Siberia, and in India. India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Cambodia have deposits of rubies, sapphires, and other precious stones.

Biological resources

Crop and livestock production

Northern and central Asia is subject to cold and dry arctic winds, especially the Siberian region of Russia. Hardy grains such as barley, buckwheat, millet, oats and wheat are grown in the central and southern regions of this zone, where persistent frost restricts plant growth. Livestock farming is also very important in this zone. In Mongolia, for example, 75% of agricultural land is allocated to raising livestock (sheep, goats, cattle) cattle etc.).

Southwest Asia is dominated by dry and hot climate, which stretches from the Gobi Desert in Mongolia through China, Pakistan, Iran, and to the Arabian Peninsula. There are very few areas in this zone with sufficient moisture and rainfall to produce a good harvest. Cereals such as barley and corn are the main crops grown in some countries. The lack of pasture and land suitable for grain means that heat-tolerant vegetables and fruits are most widely grown in this area. Figs, apricots, olives, onions, grapes, cherries are the most important fruits and vegetables of the region.

The area to the southeast is highly susceptible to the summer monsoons. As a result, many areas of Southeast Asia are among the wettest places on Earth, receiving more than 254 centimeters of rainfall each year. High temperatures and heavy rainfall are ideal conditions for growing rice and tropical fruits. Rice is considered one of the most important agricultural products of Asia and the main source of nutrition for the entire continent (one Asian resident accounts for 79 kg of rice per year). As a result, most of Rice in Asia remains regional and international trade is quite low.

In Southeast Asia, tropical fruits such as mangoes, papaya and pineapples are grown on a large scale. In India they grow the most a large number of mangoes in the world, and Thailand and the Philippines are famous for pineapples.

Fish farming

Asia is the most important fisheries and aquaculture region in the world. Aquaculture is the raising of fish and other aquatic animals under controlled conditions. In 2008, approximately 50% of the world's fish caught in Asia's marine industrial areas. Six of the world's top 10 fish producers are in Asia, namely: China, Indonesia, Japan, India, Myanmar (Burma) and the Philippines.

Seafood is an extremely important food source for many Asian people. A recent study by the National Geographic Society found that China and Japan are the leading consumers of seafood (approximately 765 million tons per year).

Flora

Asia has the richest vegetable world from all parts of the world. Since it is the largest part of the largest continent - Eurasia, it is not surprising that about 100,000 various types plants are found within its various natural areas, which range from tropical to arctic.

Asian plants, which include ferns, gymnosperms and flowering vascular plants, make up about 40% of Earth's plant species. Endemic flora species consist of more than 40 families and 1,500 genera.

Asia is divided into five main regions based on the species diversity of the flora: the moist evergreen forests of Southeast Asia, the mixed forests of East Asia, the moist forests of South Asia, the deserts and steppes of Central and West Asia, and the taiga and tundra of North Asia.

Fauna

Asia is the most densely populated part of the world, which is also one of the most biologically diverse places. Both unique species of wild animals and the most common on the planet live here. Asian countries have become home to many mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, fish, etc. However, some of these species are thriving, while others face serious threats that could wipe out their populations. Animals such as the giant panda and orangutans are the first to disappear from Asia.

An important cause of extinction of wild animals is human activity and extremely high density population in certain areas.

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Farming, especially rural farming, will depend on the natural conditions of the territory. And the conditions of Asia are characterized by great diversity and contrasts. The highest mountain ranges with steep slopes are adjacent to lowlands and the monotony of their flat topography. Great contrasts are also typical for the climate, especially for humidification. Low-lying areas are well supplied with moisture because they are located in the monsoon climate region - this is the eastern and southern part of the region.

The western part of Foreign Asia lies in the Mediterranean climate region. $90\%$ of all arable land is concentrated in these parts of Asia. The central and southwestern parts are arid. The Asian part of the world lies in several climatic zones. The south of the territory lies in tropical latitudes and receives a total solar radiation$2$ times more than the northern regions. Summer and winter temperatures on the Indonesian islands are almost the same, the average January temperature is +$25$ degrees, and the north of Manchuria, for example, has a January temperature of -$24$, -$28$ degrees. And the frosts there last longer. Significant climatic differences are also characteristic of mountainous regions and even within the mountainous territories themselves. This is due to the height of the mountains, their position, and the exposure of the slopes. Atmospheric circulation has a very clear effect on the climate of East and South Asia; the seasonal change of air masses is clearly expressed there.

The winter in these areas is characterized by the winter monsoon, and in the summer there is a summer monsoon. All of East Asia, Hindustan and Indochina are located in the monsoon circulation zone, where annual precipitation can reach $2000 mm per year. Associated with the winter monsoon are cold continental air masses, which cause cooling in East Asia and partly in the tropics of Northern Indochina.

In the southern part of Asia, winter cold snaps do not occur, because the territory is under the influence of the Indian monsoon, which has smaller pressure gradients. On the other hand, India is closed in the north by the highest mountain ranges from the cold air masses of Central Asia. The interior regions of Asia, located at high altitudes and surrounded by mountains, have a sharply continental climate.

In winter, the Asian anticyclone dominates here and a harsh and long winter sets in. At low temperatures, the soil freezes deeply, which leads to the formation of areas of permafrost. In summer, the territory warms up well and an area of ​​low atmospheric pressure. Hot and dry weather persists. There is very little precipitation; high mountain ranges prevent their penetration. In closed basins only up to $50$ mm falls. But this inland region also has its own internal climatic differences. The reason for this is the different availability of thermal resources and thermal conditions.

An exceptionally hot region is Southwest Asia. It receives the largest amount of solar radiation, therefore it is the driest part of the continent. Deserts and semi-deserts are common here.

Note 1

A significant part of Foreign Asia has unfavorable climatic conditions for the development of agriculture. The equatorial regions are heavily humidified, and the vast plateaus and plains of Southwestern and Central Asia are too dry. Agriculture in these areas is possible only with land reclamation.

The location of agricultural production, the composition of cultivated plants, features of farming techniques, and crop productivity largely depend on climatic conditions. The level of agricultural development in the countries of Foreign Asia is relatively low, so crop yields are highly dependent on weather conditions. Based on climatic features, there are several agroclimatic regions.

Mineral resources of Foreign Asia

The surface of Foreign Asia is represented by vast mountainous areas and lowlands, the areas of which are small. Low-lying areas are located along the outskirts of Asia - these are the eastern and southern coasts. The relief and the main tectonic areas are associated with mineral deposits, in which the subsoil of Foreign Asia is rich. Asia occupies a leading place in the world in terms of reserves of fuel and energy raw materials.

These are, first of all, huge deposits of coal, oil and gas. The subsoil of this part of the world contains the world's reserves of tin, antimony, mercury, graphite, sulfur, muscovite, zirconium, phosphate raw materials, potassium salts, chromites, and tungsten. However, from a geographical point of view, these resources are distributed unevenly. Coal, iron and manganese ores, and non-metallic minerals were formed within the Chinese and Hindustan platforms. There is a copper belt along the Pacific coast. In the Alpine-Himalayan folded region, ores are predominant.

The decisive role in the international geographical division of labor in Asia is played by oil and gas reserves, which are the main wealth of the region. The main hydrocarbon deposits are concentrated in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iraq, Iran, and the UAE. Large oil fields have been discovered in the countries of the Malay Archipelago - Indonesia, Malaysia. There is oil and gas in Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. The Dead Sea is known for large reserves of salts, and the Iranian Plateau is known for sulfur and non-ferrous metals.

Of all Asian countries, the greatest diversity and mineral reserves are concentrated in the following countries:

1. India;
2. Indonesia;
3. Iran;
4. Kazakhstan;
5. Türkiye;
6. Saudi Arabia.

Note 2

Those mineral deposits that are well known today do not reflect the true picture of the wealth of the subsoil of this region. Ongoing exploration work is discovering new deposits of mineral raw materials. Shelf zones are becoming promising for hydrocarbon production, providing the mining industry with new opportunities.

Different subregions of Asia have their own set of mineral resources.

Western Asia. Here, first of all, the largest oil and gas fields are concentrated, in terms of reserves of which Western Asia is a leader among other regions of the world. According to 1980 data, in this area there are $43 billion tons of oil and more than $20 trillion. cube m of gas. Coal reserves amount to more than $23 billion tons. Ferrous metal ore reserves amount to $14 billion tons and are located in Turkey and Iraq. Reserves of titanium ores in Saudi Arabia and chrome ores in Turkey and Iran, Afghanistan and Oman. Non-metallic building materials are represented by gypsum, the reserves of which amount to $3 billion tons. In some countries of the region there are deposits of precious and semi-precious stones, for example, Iranian turquoise, Afghan lapis lazuli, ruby, emerald, rock crystal, aquamarine, marble onyx.

South Asia. It holds a leading position in reserves of muscovite, barite, titanium, pyrite, beryl, graphite, iron and manganese ores. This part also has significant reserves of oil and gas, as well as gold, copper, nickel, and tungsten ores. The most important energy raw materials for South Asia is hard coal, the reserves of which are estimated at $115 billion tons. Total iron ore reserves amount to more than $13.5 billion tons. They are concentrated in India and Pakistan. There are small reserves in Sri Lanka and Nepal. Manganese ores have been mined in India for a long time. There are aluminum and nickel ores in this region. About $30\%$ of the total reserves of mining and chemical raw materials are located here - India, Pakistan, Nepal. Non-metallic raw materials are represented by Indian asbestos - India, gypsum - Pakistan, graphite - Sri Lanka. There are quartz, construction sands, dolomites, limestone and marble. Precious stones are found only in India - diamonds.

Southeast Asia. The region ranks 1st in the world in terms of tin reserves and has significant reserves of nickel, cobalt, tungsten, copper, antimony, and barite. In addition, there is oil, gas, bauxite, chromite and others mineral resources. Exploration work for hydrocarbons is carried out on the continental shelf. Of the $36 potential pools, $25 belongs to Indonesia. There are coals in both Indonesia and Vietnam. Ore minerals, the reserves of which amount to more than $1271 million tons, are found in Burma, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Kampuchea. Among the ores of non-ferrous metals, aluminum and copper ores are known - Indonesia, Vietnam, Kampuchea.

Other types of resources in Overseas Asia

Foreign Asia rich in her superficial water, but water resources are distributed unevenly across the territory, and the supply decreases from the southeast to the northwest. Water resources are used, usually for irrigation, which helps solve problems associated with drought, soil salinity and wind erosion. In India, for example, $95\%$ of fresh water consumed is used for irrigation. Mountain rivers contain colossal reserves of hydroelectric energy, which is best provided in the humid tropics. Due to the economic backwardness of mountainous areas, the hydropotential of rivers is poorly used. For example, the hydro potential of the rivers of India and Pakistan is used by approximately $10\%$. Large Asian rivers have basins covering hundreds of thousands of square kilometers. They are among the most important types of natural resources.

Another type of resource is soil. The huge size, varied topography and climate were the conditions for the formation of a complex soil cover. In the temperate climate zone, podzolic, sulfur and brown forest soils were formed. In the steppe regions there are chernozem-like and chestnut soils. In the Mediterranean subtropics, brown soils are dominant, and in monsoon regions, yellow soils and red soils are dominant. Peculiar tropical soils - regur or black soils - formed on the Hindustan Peninsula.

If speak about forest resources, then Foreign Asia is not rich in them. Per capita forest resources account for only $0.3$ hectares, and the world average is $1.2$ hectares per person. Low availability of forest resources is typical for India, Pakistan, Lebanon, and Singapore. The southeast of the region is best provided with forest resources. Here, the areas of forest resources are not only large, but also accessible, which threatens their existence.

Recreational The region's resources began to be studied and used only in the second half of the 20th century. Attractive for tourists are the warm seas of South-West Asia - Turkey and Southeast Asia - Thailand, Malaysia.

The diversity of rocks and minerals in Asia is due to the specific tectonic structure of the continent of this part of the world. There are mountain ranges, highlands and plains. It also includes peninsulas and island archipelagos. Here, a conditional division into three regions is accepted: Western, South and Southeast Asia in geographical, economic and cultural terms. Also, according to this principle, the main provinces, basins and mineral deposits can be zoned.

Metal fossils

The most abundant group of Asian resources are metals. Iron ores are common here, mined in Northeast China and the Hindustan Peninsula. There are deposits of non-ferrous metals on the east coast.

The largest deposits of these ores are located in Siberia and Caucasus mountains. Western Asia has reserves of metals such as uranium and iron, titanium and magnetites, tungsten and zinc, manganese and chromium ores, bauxite and copper ore, cobalt and molybdenum, and polymetallic ores. In South Asia, deposits of iron ores (hematite, quartzite, magnetite), chromium and titanium, tin and mercury, beryllium and nickel ores are common. In Southeast Asia, practically the same ore deposits are represented, just in different combinations. Among the rare metals, it is worth noting cesium, lithium, niobium, tantalum and niobate-rare earth ores. Their deposits are in Afghanistan and Saudi Arabia.

Non-metallic fossils

The main resource of the non-metallic group of minerals is salt. It is primarily mined in the Dead Sea. Construction minerals (clay, dolomite, shell rock, limestone, sand, marble) are mined in Asia. The raw materials for the mining and chemical industry are sulfates, pyrites, halites, fluorites, barites, sulfur, and phosphorites. Magnesites, gypsum, muscovites, alunites, kaolin, corundum, diatomite, and graphite are used in industry.

A large list of precious and semi-precious stones mined in Asia:

• turquoise;
• rubies;
• emeralds;
• crystal;
• agates;
• tourmalines;
• sapphires;
• onyx;
• aquamarines;
• diamonds;
• Moonstone;
• amethysts;
• grenades.

Fossil fuels

Among all parts of the world, Asia has the largest reserves of energy resources. More than 50% of the world's oil potential is located in Asia, where there are two largest oil and gas basins (in Western Siberia and the Persian Gulf region). A promising destination in the Bay of Bengal and the Malay Archipelago. The largest coal basins in Asia are located in Hindustan, Siberia, in the area of ​​the Chinese platform.

Section two

REGIONS AND COUNTRIES OF THE WORLD

Topic 11. ASIA

4. SOUTHEAST ASIA

Economic development in the countries of Southeast Asia is based on industries related to the development of minerals, land and forest resources.

Natural conditions and resources. According to the characteristics of natural conditions, the subregion can be divided into two parts - mainland and island.

Relief. The surface of the subregion is characterized by a combination of mountainous and flat areas. In the north of Indochina, high mountain ranges stretch in the meridional direction, which gradually decrease to the south. The highest peak in Southeast Asia is Mount Khakaboryazi, 5881 m (Myanmar).

Between the ridges there are valleys large rivers, and in their deltas there are alluvial lowlands.

The surface of the Malay Archipelago is highly dissected. Its relief is dominated by mountains and hills, while narrow lowlands are confined to the sea coast. The islands are characterized by high seismic activity. There are many volcanoes here, some of which are active.

The mountainous nature of the relief causes significant isolation individual parts subregion. In this regard, there is a significant contrast in the economic development of the territory. Mountain areas are poorly populated and developed, while alluvial lowlands are characterized by a high concentration of population and economy.

Climate resources. The subregion is located in three climatic zones - equatorial, subequatorial northern hemisphere and subequatorial southern hemisphere.

The Indochina Peninsula, the Philippine and Lesser Sunda Islands are located in the subequatorial climate zone. The climate of the mainland is determined mainly by monsoons and topography. On the plains, average temperatures are around 20°C, and the hottest month is 26°C. The mountains have a pronounced vertical climate zone.

The rainfall regime is monsoonal, but the amount depends on the topography. Precipitation is brought by the southwest monsoon from the Indian Ocean. The rainy season lasts from June to October. The wettest part is the western part of Indochina, where precipitation averages up to 3000 mm. precipitation per year. On the eastern coast of the peninsulas their number decreases to 2000 mm. The driest areas are in the interior, where annual rainfall is less than 1000 mm. Climatic conditions Inland plains allow the cultivation of relatively drought-resistant crops.

The islands of the Malay Archipelago are dominated by a predominantly humid equatorial climate. It is characterized by high average annual air temperatures (27-28°C) and minor seasonal fluctuations. More than 2000 mm of precipitation falls annually.

Soil resources. Much of Southeast Asia is dominated by lateritic soils. In the zone of humid equatorial forests, red-yellow soils dominate, and in the savannas of the central part of the Indochinese Peninsula, red lateritic soils dominate.

For agriculture, the most valuable are alluvial soils, which were formed by river sediments in the valleys and deltas of the largest rivers. The Malay Archipelago has fertile volcanic soils.

Mountain areas are characterized by red-brown forest soils. They are of little use for agriculture because they are poor in minerals.

Water resources. Rivers in Southeast Asia are unevenly distributed, with their greatest density in the equatorial part of the Malay Archipelago. In areas of seasonal moisture, the density of the river network decreases.

The rivers of Indochina belong to the basin of the Indian and Pacific oceans. The largest rivers of the Pacific Ocean are the Irrawaddy and Salween, and the largest rivers of the Pacific are the Mekong and Menam. Rivers are fed by rain. The largest river in the subregion is the Mekong. It begins in Tibet and flows through the territory of all the countries of Indochina.

The rivers of the Malay Archipelago are short but deep. The largest rivers are Kanum, Barito, Sodo.

The rivers of the subregion have multifunctional significance. They have significant hydropower resources, especially the Mekong. The hydropower potential of the subregion is estimated at 44 million kW. In areas of insufficient moisture, river water is used to irrigate fields. Most of the year are not navigable. The Mekong and Irrawaddy rivers are of great transport importance. These rivers connect inland areas with seaports.

There are few lakes in the subregion. The largest lake is San.

Forest resources are one of the main wealth of the countries of Southeast Asia. Forests occupy about half of the territory of Indochina and a significant area of ​​the islands of the Malay Archipelago.

The level of forest cover in the subregion is 2-3 times higher than the average in Asia and amounts to 44.4%. The largest area of ​​forests is concentrated in Indonesia. Cambodia and Indonesia have the highest levels of forest cover in the subregion, while Thailand and Vietnam have the lowest.

Southeast Asia has a diverse forest species composition. Multi-tiered moist evergreen forests are common along the equator. Tropical deciduous forests grow in areas with a monsoon climate. They occupy large areas in Myanmar and Thailand. In the Malay Archipelago their area is small. Eucalyptus forests are the most common on the islands. Monsoon forests are poorer in species composition, but they are of great industrial importance. Teak woods are especially prized. The low-lying and swampy shores are covered with mangrove forests.

The forests of the subregion have a multifunctional purpose. They are a source of fuel, building materials, food products, raw materials for industry, protect soils from erosion and create a favorable ecological environment. A significant part of valuable timber is exported.

Human activities cause great harm to forests. For example, in Thailand over the past 20 years, forest areas have decreased by a third. One of the reasons for the rapid loss of forests is the need to expand arable land to feed a population that is growing rapidly.

Land resources. The countries of the subregion are characterized by different levels and methods of land resource development. The land fund of Southeast Asia is 434.7 million hectares, or 16% of Asia's territory. However, cultivated areas occupy only 15.4% of the land fund. There are 0.16 hectares per inhabitant of the subregion, which is five times less than the world average (0.72 hectares). The highest level of arable land provision is in countries such as Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, which ranges from 0.39 to 0.21 hectares, and the lowest is in Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia and ranges from 0.01 to 0.08 hectares.

Over the past 20 years, significant changes have occurred in the structure of the land fund associated with the development of new lands. Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines have the largest areas of cultivated land, and the highest level of land development is in Thailand and the Philippines.

Minerals. The countries of Southeast Asia are rich in mineral resources, with the only exception being Singapore. Non-ferrous metal ores occupy a particularly prominent place. Global significance have tin deposits. In terms of reserves of tin, nickel, cobalt, copper, tungsten and antimony, the countries of Southeast Asia are among the top ten countries in the world. Gold has been mined in the subregion since ancient times. There are significant reserves of precious stones in the mountains of Myanmar and Cambodia.

Fossil fuels. Among proven fuel resources, Southeast Asia stands out for its reserves of oil and natural gas. The subregion accounts for 3.6% of Asia's oil reserves and 9.9% of its natural gas reserves.

Proven oil reserves in the countries of Southeast Asia are estimated at about 2 billion tons. The main oil resources are concentrated on the islands of the Malay Archipelago. The most powerful oil fields are located on the island. Kalimantan. The oil-bearing zone on the Indochina Peninsula is located in the valley of the river. Irrawaddy

Three countries in the subregion - Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei - account for almost 90% of proven oil reserves, including 2/3 in Indonesia. In Indonesia on the island. Sumatra in the river valley Snak is home to one of the largest deposits in the world - Minas, whose reserves are estimated at more than one billion tons. Oil fields have been discovered on the shelf.

Oil reserves on the mainland are small, only 8% of the total. Significant bitumen shale deposits have been discovered in Thailand, which may be potential sources of petroleum products.

Natural gas reserves in Southeast Asia are estimated at 4243 billion m 3 . Half of these reserves are in Indonesia and a third in Malaysia and Brunei.

Coal reserves are small - only 3.7 billion tons, which is 0.4% of the total coal reserves of Asia. The main reserves are concentrated in Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia, of which about half are in Thailand.

Metallic minerals. The territory of Southeast Asia is crossed by the Pacific ore belt, which is rich in various ore deposits. The subregion is especially distinguished by its ores of non-ferrous metals.

Tin reserves in the subregion are estimated at 5 million tons, which is 60% of world reserves. The world's largest deposits are confined to the tin belt, which extends through the territory of Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Indonesia ranks first in the world in terms of tin reserves, while Thailand and Malaysia share second and third places, respectively.

Nickel reserves are estimated at 20.9 million tons, or 19% of world reserves. About 2/3 of its reserves are concentrated in Indonesia. Largest deposits nickel are located on the island. Sulawesi. The Philippines ranks second in terms of nickel reserves in the subregion.

Copper reserves are estimated at 17 million tons, or 3% of world reserves. Almost 90% of these reserves are in the Philippines. Small deposits of copper are known in Indonesia, Thailand and Myanmar.

Aluminum ores are represented mainly by bauxite. The largest deposits are located in Indonesia and the Philippines.

Ferrous metal ores. Total iron ore reserves in the subregion are estimated at 1140 million tons, representing 0.4% of world reserves. The main deposits are concentrated in four countries - the Philippines, Malaysia, Myanmar and Indonesia.

There are minor manganese deposits in the subregion. Its reserves are estimated at 23 million tons, which is about 0.2% of the world's reserves. Half of these reserves are concentrated in Indonesia, and the rest in Thailand and the Philippines.

The Philippines stands out for its chromite reserves.

Of the precious metal ores in Southeast Asia, gold is the most common. Its reserves are estimated at 2.2 million tons. The main gold reserves are concentrated in the Philippines, which ranks first in Asia and fifth in the world. Silver is mined in Myanmar and the Philippines.

Non-metallic minerals are represented mainly by mining chemical raw materials - fluorites, potassium salts, which are concentrated mainly in Thailand. There are sulfur deposits in Indonesia and the Philippines. Virtually unlimited supplies of building materials.

Population. Anthropologically, the majority of the population of Southeast Asia belongs to the southern branch of the Mongoloid race. Only in the extreme east of the subregion do Papuan peoples live, who belong to the Australoid race. The ethnic composition of the population of Southeast Asia is very diverse. A significant part belongs to three language groups: Malayo-Polynesian, Thai and Sino-Tibetan. The population is dominated by the peoples of the Malayo-Polynesian language family- Indonesians, Malays, Filipinos, etc. Among the non-indigenous peoples living in the subregion are the Chinese, Indians, Japanese, Arabs and Europeans.

The countries of Southeast Asia are multinational. The most characteristic of Southeast Asia are countries with a strong predominance of one nation, but with significant national minorities. These include Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Myanmar. Almost 40% of the population lives in these countries. Only two countries, Indonesia and the Philippines, which account for 65% of the population, have a diverse population. For example, Indonesia has a population of 300 ethnic groups and 16 large nations. Five percent of the population lives in countries with complex, albeit ethnically homogeneous, populations. These include Malaysia and Laos.

Population distribution. Throughout Southeast Asia, the population is unevenly distributed. The average population density is 117.1 people/km2. This figure ranges from 4521.3 persons/km 2 in Singapore to 23.0 persons/km 2 in Laos.

The highest population density is observed in the deltas of large rivers - the Irrawaddy, Mekong and Menamu, where half the population of the subregion lives. Here in some areas the population density is 1000 people/km2. The island of Java is very densely populated, where in some rural areas the population density exceeds 2,500 people/km 2 . Mountain areas are sparsely populated - up to 15-20 people/km 2 .

The current and future demographic situation in the countries of Southeast Asia is due to high fertility and low mortality. The peoples of the subregion are distinguished by a high birth rate - 23 births per 1000 inhabitants per year. The highest birth rate is in the countries of Indochina. The maximum value of this indicator is observed in Laos - 39, and the minimum in Singapore - 14. The mortality rate is 7 people per 1000 inhabitants. Its value ranges from 3 people per 1000 inhabitants in Brunei to 11 people per 1000 inhabitants in Cambodia.

In the mid-1990s, the population growth rate was 2.0% per year. According to UN forecasts, this figure in the subregion will decrease to 1.8% per year, and the population in 2025 will grow to 685 million people.

Most countries have population growth rates well above the subregional average. Only three countries - Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia - are characterized by low population growth rates. The urban population growth rate is 3.5%, and the rural population growth rate is 1.5% per year. In all countries, the growth rate of the urban population significantly exceeds the growth rate of the rural population.

The average life expectancy in Southeast Asian countries, although it has increased in recent decades to 64 years, has not yet reached the Asian average. The longest average life expectancy in Brunei and Singapore is 78 years, and the lowest in Cambodia and Laos is 52 years. Across all countries of the subregion, women live on average four years longer than men.

In the post-war years, Southeast Asian countries experienced high rates of population growth. For the period 1950-2000. the population of the subregion increased from 182 million people to 526 million people, that is, 2.9 times over 50 years.

High natural population growth in the subregion predetermines the young age structure of the population. Half of the population in Southeast Asia is under 20 years old, which creates a number of problems: increased demand for education, employment, housing construction, etc.

Modern demographic policy in the countries of the subregion is aimed at reducing the birth rate and the transition of the population to creating small families.

Urbanization. In 1995, 39% of the total population lived in cities in Southeast Asia. The level of urbanization in the countries of the subregion, except Singapore and Brunei, is below the world average (45%). The lowest level of urbanization is in Cambodia - 13% and Laos - 22%. Highly urbanized countries include Singapore, where all residents are urban, and Brunei - 58%.

Urban settlements are distributed very unevenly. In countries such as Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, the capitals significantly dominate other cities in terms of population. For example, in Thailand, Bangkok has 20 times the number of inhabitants of the country's second city, Chiang Mai. In Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines, the network of urban settlements is much better developed.

There are 16 millionaire cities in Southeast Asia, home to 15% of the urban population. The most cities with millionaires are in Indonesia - six and Vietnam - three. These cities are very large in area, and their population density is traditionally very high - up to 30,000 people/km 2 .

Largest cities: Jakarta - 8.8 million people (1996) and Bangkok - 6.8 million people (1996).

Economically active population (EAP). The share of EAN in Southeast Asia is reduced and accounts for a third of the total population. The low economic activity of the population of the subregion is explained primarily by the high proportion of children in the total population.

Over the past 20 years, the share of EANs in the labor force has decreased. In the early 90s, the average labor force participation rate of EAN was 65%, including 54% for women and 81% for men.

In the early 90s, the main share of EAN in the subregion was occupied in agriculture - 52%.

High employment rates in agriculture were observed in countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Myanmar - about 75%, while the lowest was in Brunei - 2%. The highest levels of industrial employment were recorded in Singapore - 35%, Malaysia - 26% and Brunei - 25%. Employment grew most rapidly in the service sector, especially in Brunei and Singapore, and amounted to 74 and 65%, respectively.

Unemployment is an acute socio-economic problem in the countries of Southeast Asia. Its level varies quite widely - from 20% in Vietnam to 3.2% in Singapore. New industries cannot absorb the labor reserves that are being released from agriculture.

Extractive industry. In the early years of post-colonial development, countries in the subregion developed mineral resources that benefited in great demand on the world market - tin, copper, chromium. However, in last years there is interest in mineral raw materials, which could become the basis national economy in many countries.

Today, in Southeast Asian countries, the mining industry plays a supporting role. Only in Brunei is this industry characterized by hypertrophied development. The share of the mining industry in the GDP structure here reaches 45%. In other countries, this figure ranges from 1% in Myanmar to 1-15% in Indonesia and Malaysia.

The countries of Southeast Asia occupy a leading place in the world production of tin, nickel, cobalt, and chromites.

In the mining industry, the extraction of non-ferrous metals is of leading importance. Especially important for the countries of the subregion is tin mining. In the mid-1990s, the share of Southeast Asian countries in world tin production was 60%. The main producers are Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand, which occupy second, fifth and eighth places in the world, respectively. It is exported to SENA and Canada, countries Western Europe and Japan.

Copper ore mining is important in the subregion. Southeast Asian countries account for 6.5% of global copper ore production. The main producers are Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia, which account for 2/3 of the total production in the subregion. Indonesia ranks fifth in the world in copper ore mining. The country produces 550 thousand tons of copper ore, which is 4.8% of world production (1997).

The share of countries in the subregion in world bauxite production is small - about 2%. Bauxite mining is concentrated in two countries - Indonesia and Malaysia. A significant portion of bauxite is exported to Japan. Zinc and lead are mined in Thailand, the Philippines and Myanmar.

In the world production of ferrous metal ores, Southeast Asia occupies a modest place. It accounts for only 0.2% of iron ore production. The main producers of iron ore are Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand. It is used in the domestic market for the needs of the development of ferrous metallurgy.

Manganese ore is mined in Thailand and the Philippines. It is used in the domestic market and is also exported to Japan. Among other metal raw materials, nickel mining is important in the subregion, chrome ore, cobalt and antimony.

Precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum and precious stones are mined in small quantities. The Philippines is one of the top ten largest gold producers in the world. Every year 35 tons of gold are mined in the country.

Fuel industry. The leading place among the fuel industries is occupied by the oil industry. In the early 90s, the subregion provided 6% of world oil production. Annual oil production is more than 100 million tons. Half of the oil is produced on the shelf. The subregion's main oil producer is Indonesia, which accounts for 67% of total production. Indonesia ranks 14th in the world in oil production. Oil is also produced in Malaysia and Brunei. These three countries account for 98% of the subregion's total oil production. Small amounts of oil are produced in Thailand and Myanmar. Indonesia is a member of the organization of oil exporting countries - OPEC. More than 2/3 of the oil produced is exported. Main oil exporter - Saudi Arabia, which accounts for 3.8% of world exports.

Gas industry. Most countries produce associated natural gas. Gas fields began to be developed only in Thailand. Southeast Asian countries account for 23.2% of global production and 16.9% of natural gas exports. Annual natural gas production is over 50 billion m3.

The main producer of natural gas is Indonesia, which accounts for 56% of total production in Southeast Asia. Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei produce 90% of the subregion's natural gas. Small amounts of natural gas are produced in Thailand and Myanmar.

Southeast Asia is a leader in supplies of liquefied natural gas to the world market. In the early 70s, with the help of Japan, a liquefied gas production plant was built in Brunei. In total, there are four enterprises in Southeast Asia: two in Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. Their total capacity is 40 billion m 3 of liquefied gas per year. Indonesia is one of the largest suppliers of liquefied gas to the world market. The main consumer is Japan. Since the late 1980s, liquefied natural gas has been exported to South Korea and Taiwan.

Coal industry. In the countries of Southeast Asia, small amounts of coal are mined. The main producers of hard coal are the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia, and the main producers of brown coal are Thailand and Vietnam. The coal industry meets the domestic needs of producing countries.

Energy. The main energy resource in Southeast Asia is oil. Its share in the structure of consumption of primary energy sources is 43.6%. Oil is the main source of energy in all countries except Vietnam and Myanmar. And in Singapore and Cambodia it is the only source of energy.

Natural gas occupies second place in the subregion's energy consumption - 26.6%. This type of fuel, along with oil, is important in Brunei and Myanmar. Only in Vietnam the structure of energy consumption is dominated by coal. The role of hydropower and other energy sources in the subregion is insignificant.

In the production and consumption of energy resources there is a very high share of non-commercial energy sources - wood fuel. This type of fuel provides one third of total needs.

Three quarters of the subregion's fuel consumption comes from four countries - Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. The highest level of energy consumption is in Brunei and Singapore - 4-6 tup per inhabitant. In Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines, consumption per capita ranges from 0.5 to 1 tup. This large difference in energy consumption between these countries is largely due to population size. Reduced energy consumption - less than 0.1 tup per capita in Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Myanmar.

Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei provide 100% domestic energy consumption own production energy carriers. These countries are exporters of energy resources and have the potential to maintain such positions in the future. The Philippines and Thailand account for 40% of their own energy consumption. The largest energy importers include Singapore, Cambodia and Laos.

The electricity sector remains a weak link in the Southeast Asian economy. Countries in the subregion are characterized by lower levels of electricity consumption, especially countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Myanmar. High levels of electricity production in Singapore and Brunei.

The bulk of electricity is generated at thermal power plants. The geography of the electric power industry in the subregion is marked by great contrasts. About a third of the stations are concentrated in Indonesia. Of the alternative sources, the greatest hopes are placed on geothermal sources and hydro resources. Indonesia launched the subregion's first geothermal power plant.

The natural resources of the plains of Central Asia are diverse. Of the combustible minerals, Jurassic stones were discovered in Janak and brown coals in Mangyshlak and in the Alakul region; oil and gas in Mangyshlak, Bukhara and the Ili depression, oil on the Cheleken Peninsula, Nebit-Dag and Kum-Dag, ozokerite in Cheleken. Among the deposits of ore minerals, manganese in Mangyshlak (Aitkoksha) and oolitic iron ore in the Northern Aral Sea region are becoming known. Asbestos, graphite and copper were found on the territory of the Paleozoic uplands of the Kyzylkum. In the Lowland Karakum, sulfur has been mined for many years in the Sulfur Hills, located 250 km north of Ashgabat, and gas reserves have been explored in recent years. The richest reserves of self-sedimented salts are found in the Kara-Bogaz-Gol Bay on the Caspian Sea (mirabilite), in the Karagiye tectonic depression (magnesian salts), in the area of ​​Aralsk (astrakhanite) and the Aral Sea region (sodium sulfate). There are unlimited supplies of gypsum and table salt everywhere.

The plains of Central Asia are rich in light and warmth. In the Lowland Karakum desert, heat resources for periods with temperatures above 10°C exceed 5000°C, in the Kyzylkum desert - about 4000°C; in the deserts of the Aral Sea region, Southern Balkhash region and in Muyunkum - 3000-3500°C. With such heat resources and the presence of water, subtropical plants such as fine-fiber cotton, sesame, peanuts, world-famous Charju melons, and high-sugar table grape varieties are successfully grown in the southern deserts. Over the past decades, new crops for those places have been developed on the plains of Central Asia: southern hemp, kenaf, jute, sugar beet. Southern fruit growing is developing successfully.

The plains of Central Asia are poor in surface watercourses, except for transit rivers, the sources of which are in mountainous areas. Measures for the collection and storage of temporary runoff water, including the installation of underground rainwater collectors, are of great economic importance.

The groundwater of the plains is concentrated in vast Artevian basins, explored by Soviet hydrogeologists in recent decades. Among the basins, the Aral Sea group (Turgai, Syr-Darya and Karakum) artesian basins is distinguished. Within the Tien Shan folded region there are the Chui and Ili basins, and in the Dzhungar region there is a group of artesian basins of the Balkhash region. All pools have pressure (self-flowing) or semi-pressure waters of different flow rates and varied mineralization - from fresh to salty inclusive. Part groundwater used for drinking needs of the population and livestock. For this purpose, many mine and artesian wells have been built in deserts in the last ten years.

The deepest groundwater is found on the Badkhyz and Karabil plateaus. Here, dug wells for watering livestock reach a depth of 200-260 m. Upon exiting the Karakum Desert, groundwater rises closer to the surface (15-40 m and closer) and becomes noticeably saltier. The eastern regions of the Zaunguz Karakum are relatively well supplied with water, while the western regions of the Lowland Karakum are poorly watered. In the Kyzylkum desert, as well as in the Aral region, Muyunkum and Southern Balkhash region, there is fresh groundwater everywhere in the sands, the flow of which is mostly small, but the total reserves of fresh and slightly brackish groundwater in Muyunkum and in the sandy massifs of the Southern Balkhash region are large. On the foothill plains, groundwater often wedges out, forming numerous “karas” - small streams and rivers used by the population for irrigation and water supply. The abundance of “karasu” can be observed on the foothill plains of the northern slopes of the Kyrgyz, Trans-Ili and Dzungarian ranges, in the Fergana Valley.

The development of solar technology makes it possible to obtain fresh water from brackish and saline groundwater. They are of great economic importance plant resources plains due to the intensive development of livestock farming, in particular astrakhan sheep breeding and fine-wool sheep breeding. Pastures are the dominant type of agricultural land in the deserts and semi-deserts of Central Asia. The feeding value of desert-wood and wormwood associations is greatest. Deserts with a predominance of desert-tree associations, which, along with saxaul, kandym and other trees, contain many ephemeroids and ephemera, are used mostly as year-round pastures. The average productivity of forage mass is 0.8-1.9 c/ha. Deserts with wormwood dominating the vegetation cover are considered the best autumn-winter pastures. Their average feed productivity is 1.3-2.7 c/ha. Horses and cattle are most often grazed in tugai forests. Hay is harvested in reed and sedge swamps.

The most valuable in terms of food are the psammophyte-shrub and solyanka communities.

In the fuel balance of the Central Asian republics, a prominent place belongs to the wood of saxaul open forests. Of the total area of ​​20.5 million hectares of desert forests and thickets in Central Asia, saxaul forests account for 19.8 million hectares. The wood reserve in this area is about 35 million liters* 1.

The quality of saxaul forests is closely related to the groundwater level and soil type: the best saxaul forests develop on sandy loam and light loamy soils with groundwater occurring at a depth of 3-8 m.

For the decade 1947-1967. saxaul and desert shrubs were sown on an area of ​​about 97 million hectares.

Large areas of land have been developed for agriculture in the largest irrigated oases: Fergana, Khorezm, Tashkent Zeravshan, Murgab, Tedzhen, Gol odnostep with kom, Chui, Talas, Semirechensk. The total irrigated land in the republics of Central Asia, excluding Tajikistan, is 6.8 million hectares. In the future, it is possible to irrigate about 15 million hectares in the republics of Central Asia and Kazakhstan (B-D. Korzhavin, 1962).

During the Soviet period, much work on studying methods for developing deserts and fixing sand was carried out by the Aral Sea, Repetek and Dzhezkazgan experimental stations. They developed a series effective methods oasis transformation of deserts: new methods of rainfed and irrigated farming and foraging, a trench method of growing vegetables, potatoes and fruits in the sands has been developed, effective methods for fixing sands and their afforestation have been scientifically substantiated and introduced into production. All these methods make it possible to more rationally use the natural resources of the deserts of Central Asia.

The work of zoologists and doctors to eliminate Asian locust nests, sharply reduce the incidence of malaria, and develop methods to combat ticks and other carriers of serious diseases in humans and animals is invaluable.

On the plains of Central Asia, fur and other animal trades are of some importance. Game species that occupy a prominent place in the national economy of the plains include gophers, jerboas, muskrats, acclimatized on Balkhash (the Ili River delta) since 1935, goitered gazelles and saigas, the shooting of which is limited by the law on nature conservation. In the tugai forests, wild boars are shot and a lot of waterfowl are caught - ducks, coots, geese, cormorants, and less - pheasants.

Protection and expanded reproduction of natural resources are the most important government and public activities. The regulation of livestock grazing on the sands and animal hunting, and the rational use of water resources require close attention.