Ecological significance and ecotourism opportunities of natural protected areas of Surkhandarya and Kashkadarya Provinces, Uzbekistan

¹ Samarkand State University, University Boulevard, 15, 140104, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
² Samarkand State Pedagogical Institute, Spitamen Avenue, 166, 140044, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
³ Karakalpak State University, Dosnazarova Street, 1, 230100, Nukus, Uzbekistan

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

This study assesses the ecological significance and ecotourism potential of four major protected natural areas in the Surkhandarya and Kashkadarya provinces of Uzbekistan. Using geospatial analysis, biodiversity inventories, and field-based assessments, we determined species richness, plant cover, and conservation value. The results show that the region is home to a total of 890 faunal and 2,204 plant species, 91 of which are listed in the Red Book of Uzbekistan. Spatial modeling showed that biodiversity is concentrated in ecotonal and mid-altitude zones, with high plant abundances observed in the Bobotog and Yukori Tupalang reserves. Despite their high ecological importance, remote areas, particularly the Surkhon Reserve, are threatened by anthropogenic pressures such as encroachment and grazing. The ecotourism assessment identified strong potential for low-impact tourism based on scenic, cultural, and biodiversity, although infrastructure is still underdeveloped. We recommend integrated management approaches that combine conservation, community tourism, and ecological monitoring. The study provides a policy-relevant framework for enhancing the dual role of protected areas in southern Uzbekistan as biodiversity refuges and hubs of sustainable development.