Rangkul-Shorkul lake system (Eastern Pamir, Tajikistan)

Under arid conditions of the Eastern Pamir Mountains, the high-altitude lake-wetland systems perform important ecological functions, including water storage, resting and feeding sites for wild animals, and supplying fodder for yaks, sheep, and goats bred in the area. However, their functioning and ecological roles are being modified by ongoing climate changes, especially the rising temperature and alterations in precipitation patterns observed lately for this region. This chapter presents the biodiversity of microorganisms, plants, and animals recorded in the Rangkul and Shorkul Lakes and their surroundings, including the habitats of wetland, grassland, cold desert, and rocky screes. As a biodiversity hotspot, this area was declared a Ramsar site (1085), a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA), and an Important Bird Area (TJ013). Yet, no systematic biodiversity monitoring is performed there, and grazing pressure is growing. Hence, there is a need for the elaboration of sustainable use and conservation practices for this area.