Physical Geography of the Lankaran Region

Geographical Position and Relief of the Lankaran Region

The Lankaran region is situated in the southeastern portion of Azerbaijan, occupying the territory between the shores of the Caspian Sea and the watershed of the Talish Mountains. This region possesses a distinct topographic profile characterized by the transition from coastal lowlands to mountainous terrain. The highest point within the Lankaran region is the Kömürköy peak, which reaches an elevation of $2493\,m$ above sea level.

Geological Structure and Mineral Resources

The geological composition of the Lankaran region is predominantly characterized by Cenozoic era rocks. In the Talish Mountains specifically, volcanic rocks dating back to the Paleogene period are widely distributed. Despite its complex geological history, the region is considered to be poorly endowed with diverse mineral resources. The primary mineral assets found here are construction materials and various mineral waters. Significant mineral water springs in the area include Donuzütən, Ərkivan, Qotursu, Aşağı Ağkörpü, İstisu, and Meşǝsu.

Climate and Atmospheric Precipitation

A humid subtropical climate dominates the Lankaran region, which is unique within the broader context of Azerbaijan. The average annual air temperature is recorded at $14^{\circ}C$. This region is notable for receiving the highest amount of precipitation in Azerbaijan, with annual values ranging between $400\,mm$ and $1800\,mm$. A critical feature of this precipitation is its seasonal distribution; approximately $80\%$ of the annual rainfall occurs during the cold period of the year. Consequently, during the warm season, the water levels in the rivers decrease significantly, leading to serious challenges for irrigation and agricultural activities.

Hydrology and Water Resources

The region possesses a dense river network. The rivers in Lankaran flow directly into the Caspian Sea and are primarily fed by rainwater and, to a lesser extent, by groundwater. The Lankaran lowland itself is particularly rich in groundwater resources, providing an important hydrological balance to the surface water systems.

Biodiversity and Soil Characteristics

The forests of the Lankaran region are of global importance due to the presence of numerous endemic and relict plant species. In the lowlands and the foothills, forests thrive on yellow soils, which are characteristic of this humid subtropical environment. To protect this unique biodiversity, Several protected areas have been established, including the Hirkan National Park, as well as the Ruvarud and Zuvand reserves.

The Phenomenon of Landscape Inversion

Unlike other regions, the Lankaran region exhibits a phenomenon known as landscape inversion within the Talish Mountains. In standard mountainous landscapes, humidity typically increases with altitude, leading to denser vegetation at higher elevations. However, in the Talish Mountains, forests are located at the foothills, while the areas above them are occupied by arid landscapes such as mountain steppes and xerophytic shrubs. This inversion is caused by a decrease in precipitation as altitude increases in the Talish Mountains. The soil types also reflect this transition, with brown forest soils found in the lower mountainous parts and coffee-colored mountain-forest soils appearing in the higher sections.