Peloidogenesis in modern conditions of climate change and anthropogenic impact: long-term studies of the Kuyalnik estuary

Abstract

Estuaries and endorheic lakes are particularly vulnerable ecosystems whose existence depends on the balance of freshwater and seawater inflows, as well as climatic and anthropogenic factors. In the face of climate change and increasing economic pressure, their shallowing and degradation have become a key problem. The hydromineral base of the Kuyalnik estuary in the Black Sea consists of silt-sulfide peloids, representing a complex and dynamic system of interaction between the organomineral complex and sources of microbiota. In this regard, it became necessary to continually monitor the quality of the natural medicinal resources in the Kuyalnik estuary. The study of peloids after the release of Black Sea water made it possible to analyze the dynamics of changes in the physical, chemical, and microbiological indicators of peloids, their influence on the processes of peloidogenesis, evaluate the results of the measures taken, and create recommendations for further actions to preserve the unique properties of natural healing resources.