ORIGINAL_ARTICLE The article presents a morphological and anatomical analysis of leaves and shoots of Juniperus excelsa subsp. polycarpos (syn. Juniperus polycarpos) and Juniperus oxycedrus. The conditions for these species to grow in the territory of the republic are quite limited, therefore morphological growth of species was valued normal under arid and semi-arid zone. Samples of leaves and young shoots of both species have been collected in their natural habitats in the Turyanchay State Nature Reserve, in arid sparse forest conditions. The characteristics of their structure reflecting adaptation to xerophytic conditions have been established. Both species are characterized by a single-layer epidermis with a thickened cuticle, submerged stomata, developed mechanical tissue and the presence of resin ducts. The species J. polycarpos has been found to have two- and three-lobed shoots with varying degrees of xylem development and central cylinder shapes, while J. oxycedrus is characterized by the presence of triangular shoots and well-defined resin ducts in the corners. In contrast to J. oxycedrus, the shoots of J. excelsa subsp. polycarpos are distinguished by their two- and three-lobed nature, reflecting the opposite and whorled arrangement of leaves. The data obtained confirm the similarity of the main anatomical features of both species and their functional role in increasing plant resistance to moisture deficiency and extreme temperatures. The results of the research are important for understanding the mechanisms of adaptation of these species to different climatic conditions. https://plantfungalres.az/uploads/2026-1/Ibadullayeva et al.pdf 2026-06-15 https://doi.org/10.30546/2664-5297.2026.9.01.09   adaptation anatomy Juniperus excelsa subsp. polycarpos Juniperus oxycedrus needles stem Turyanchay Sayyara J. Ibadullayeva 1 AUTHOR Nuri V. Movsumova 2 AUTHOR Rana R.Suleymanova 3 AUTHOR Munir Ozturk 4 AUTHOR

ORIGINAL_ARTICLE This article reports a study of the pharmacological value of mushrooms, their biologically active substances, and research trends, with a focus on species found in the Guba district of Azerbaijan. The research was conducted based on both herbarium specimens from previous years and fungal specimens collected by the authors in recent years. As a result, out of a total of 104 species and one variation recorded in the studied territory 27 have valuable therapeutic effects. Fungi belong to 22 genera, 16 families, and 7 orders, within the phyla Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. Most of the collected mushrooms have antibacterial, anticancer, antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. Of these, Fomes fomentarius, Fomitopsis quercina, Ganoderma lucidum, Morchella esculenta, Phellinus igniarius, Pleurotus ostreatus, Schizophyllum commune and Suillus granulatus combine five or more therapeutic effects. Among the studied mushrooms, Boletus edulis, Cerrena unicolor, Collybia nuda, C. odora, Coprinellus micaceus, F. quercina, Ganoderma applanatum, G. lucidum, Hydnum repandum, Hypholoma fasciculare, Laetiporus sulphureus, Lentinus tigrinus, Ph. igniarius, Pholiota aurivella, P. ostreatus, S. commune, Stereum hirsutum, S. granulatus, Trametes hirsuta and T. ochracea possess potent antimicrobial compounds that exhibit strong inhibitory effects against pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The study identifies potential uses of these mushrooms in the country and lays the foundation for future research. https://plantfungalres.az/uploads/2026-1/Alimammadova Husuyeva et al.pdf 2026-06-15 https://doi.org/10.30546/2664-5297.2026.9.01.022   antibacterial antioxidant biologically active compounds biomedical potential immunomodulator medicinal mushrooms Aytaj A. Alimammadova Husuyeva Dilzara N. Aghayeva 1 AUTHOR Nina A. Bisko 2 AUTHOR

ORIGINAL_ARTICLE Low temperatures alter the structural and functional properties of chloroplast membranes and negatively affect photosynthetic activity. In the present study, Triticum aestivum seedlings were incubated at 4˚C to evaluate the protective effects of triterpene saponins isolated from Glycyrrhiza glabra roots and steroidal saponins isolated from Yucca aloifolia roots, which differ in their chemical structure. The DPPH assay demonstrated free radical scavenging activity of triterpene saponins (IC50 = 1.26 µg/ml) and steroid saponins (IC50 = 7.3 µg/ml). Analysis of fluorescence and absorption spectral characteristics showed that the studied saponins contributed to the restoration of photosystem II activity under low-temperature stress, including partial recovery of electron transport processes at the P680+ –QA–QB site and stabilization of chlorophyll a680 and chlorophyll b645 absorption in the chloroplast antenna complex. In addition, treatment with saponins was associated with a reduction in PNRSV viral load in Gizella 6 cherry rootstock, as determined by ELISA. The obtained results suggest that triterpene and steroidal saponins may contribute to the maintenance of photosynthetic membrane functions under cold stress conditions through their antiradical and membranotropic properties. https://plantfungalres.az/uploads/2026-1/Dadashova et al.pdf 2026-06-15 https://doi.org/10.30546/2664-5297.2026.9.01.031   cold stress Glycyrrhiza glabra L. photosystem II saponins Triticum aestivum L. Yucca aloifolia L. Sevil B. Dadashova 1 AUTHOR Gulnara Kh. Babayeva 2 AUTHOR Nilufar B. Huseynova 3 AUTHOR Rena A. Ganiyeva 4 AUTHOR Sara Vitalini 5 AUTHOR Samira T. Hummatova 6 AUTHOR Aytac I. Asgarova 7 AUTHOR

ORIGINAL_ARTICLE This study provides a comprehensive assessment of species of the genus Cytospora recorded in Uzbekistan, based on the modern classification framework proposed by Lin et al. The analysis reveals a clear predominance of representatives belonging to the A-II group, with types A8 and A9 being particularly widespread. These types are characterized by internally complex conidiomatal structures, including multilocular arrangements, central columns, and rosette-like configurations, which appear to enhance reproductive efficiency and spore dispersal. Such structural complexity likely confers a significant adaptive advantage under arid and sharply continental climatic conditions typical of the region. The absence of representatives of the A-I group may indicate either an evolutionary reduction of simple, unilocular stromatic forms or their limited ecological relevance in the studied environment. In contrast, the A-II and A-III groups can be interpreted as relatively advanced stages in the evolutionary trajectory of the genus, reflecting a transition toward increasing morphological and functional specialization. The comparatively low occurrence of A-III group types (A11 A13) may be associated with their narrower ecological amplitude, as these forms tend to occupy more specialized niches despite their structurally differentiated and fully compartmentalized locular systems. The results further demonstrate a strong structural and functional correspondence between asexual (anamorphic) and sexual (teleomorphic) morphs. In particular, the number, arrangement, and internal differentiation of locules in conidiomata show clear parallels with the organization of perithecia in the sexual stage. Multiloculate configurations observed in the A-II group may serve as a developmental basis for the formation of multiple perithecia, whereas discrete locules in A-III types correspond to independently organized or partially fused perithecial systems. Additional features, such as the presence of conceptacle-like structures (black boundary lines), contribute to mechanical stability and protection, and also represent important taxonomic and functional traits across both morphs. A comparative evaluation of the present findings with earlier concepts proposed by Z. Urban [1958] and L. J Spielman [1985] highlights both continuity and conceptual expansion. While previous studies emphasized the taxonomic significance of structural correspondence between ascomatal and conidiomatal components, the present work extends this interpretation by integrating evolutionary and ecological dimensions. Specifically, morphological diversification within the genus is shown to be closely linked with adaptive strategies and reproductive specialization. Overall, the species composition of Cytospora in Uzbekistan reflects a dominance of intermediate (A-II) and advanced (A-III) evolutionary forms, underscoring a tight interrelationship between morphological differentiation, ecological adaptation, and the evolution of reproductive systems. These findings contribute to a more integrative understanding of the genus and help bridge gaps between taxonomic, morphological, and evolutionary perspectives. https://plantfungalres.az/uploads/2026-1/Mustafayev et al.pdf 2026-06-15 https://doi.org/10.30546/2664-5297.2026.9.01.043   anamorphic and teleomorphic stages arid climate adaptation conidiomatal structure fungal reproductive strategies locule differentiation micromycetes diversity perithecial arrangement stromatic organization Islom Z. Ortiqov 1 AUTHOR Ilyor M. Mustafayev 2 AUTHOR Mirzaraxmat B. Turaboyev 3 AUTHOR

ORIGINAL_ARTICLE Medicinal plants are regarded as crucial ancient form of medication that are used in traditional medicine in many countries not only in rural areas but also in urban areas for thousands of years. The current study reported the comprehensive overview of the ethnobotanical review of a selected 50 species belonging to 31 families to document their therapeutic applications and traditional preparation approaches. The data were systematically compiled from published ethnobotanical literature and scientific databases, focusing on the mode of administration and the therapeutic relevance of taxa. This review revealed a diverse range of pharmacological activities, with the most frequent therapeutic targets being gastrointestinal, skin disorders and wound healing, documented in 15-20 studied taxa. Specific ailments including diabetes, respiratory infections and fever were also prominently addressed across multiple species. The analysis of administration methods confirmed a primary reliance on oral decoctions, followed by topical leaf paste and infusions, emphasizing a preference for simple water-based extraction approach. These overviews value the conservation of traditional knowledge and offer a scientific foundation for further phytochemical as well as pharmacological research of the medicinal plants. https://plantfungalres.az/uploads/2026-1/Zafar et al.pdf 2026-06-15 https://doi.org/10.30546/2664-5297.2026.9.01.057   decoction disorders ethnobotany ethnomedicine medicinal plants Aleena Gul 1 AUTHOR Muhammad Zafar 2 AUTHOR Salman Majeed 3 AUTHOR Muhammad Rizwan Khan 4 AUTHOR Barkat Ali Rajper 5 AUTHOR Rahmat Ali 6 AUTHOR

ORIGINAL_ARTICLE This research was conducted in the Zagatala-Balakan region to investigate early spring medicinal plants and their traditional uses by the Avar and Tsakhur ethnic groups from an ethnobotanical perspective. Fieldwork was primarily carried out in Mazimgara, Garakli, Katekh, and Chaygarishan villages, where plant specimens were collected, herbaria were prepared, and the GPS coordinates of the localities were recorded. A total of 23 medicinal plant species traditionally used by these communities were identified, which are mainly utilized in the treatment of skin, gastrointestinal, and respiratory diseases. Furthermore, 22 ethnobotanical interviews were conducted with local inhabitants across various age groups. To analyze the collected data statistically, Use Value (UV) and Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) indices were employed. The results demonstrate the richness of local ethnomedicinal knowledge and its significance from both scientific and cultural perspectives. The systematic documentation and preservation of this knowledge are essential for its transmission to future generations. https://plantfungalres.az/uploads/2026-1/Nabiyeva et al.pdf 2026-06-15 https://doi.org/10.30546/2664-5297.2026.9.01.065   avars ethnobotanical indices medicinal plants relative frequency of citation use value Fatmakhanim K. Nabiyeva 1 AUTHOR Farah F. Amrahova 2 AUTHOR Gulnara Sh. Shiraliyeva 3 AUTHOR Samira F. Khudaverdiyeva 4 AUTHOR Ulkar M. Mammadova 5 AUTHOR Hasrat Kh. Mammadova 6 AUTHOR Turana A. Hasanli 7 AUTHOR Gulmira F. Rzayeva 8 AUTHOR

ORIGINAL_ARTICLE This study investigates the development of algal communities and their spatiotemporal variability along the southern coast of the Caspian Sea (Lankaran, Astara, Masalli, and Neftchala) in 2023–2024. The study identified 75 taxa including Bacillariophyta, Chlorophyta, Cyanobacteria, Rhodophyta, Charophyta, and Ochrophyta. Results varied by location and year, with the highest values observed in Lankaran (2023) and Astara (2024). Diatoms and chlorophytes were the major dominant groups in all study areas. The Shannon diversity index ranged from 3.94 to 4.42, indicating high species richness and ecological stability of the algal communities, while the Evenness index (0.944–1.03) suggests a relatively uniform distribution of individuals among species and the absence of strong dominance. Algal communities in the study areas exhibited high species richness and ecological stability. Cluster analysis revealed that algal community structure exhibited high similarity within the same seasons and significant differences between seasons, indicating that temporal variations in abundance are mainly driven by seasonal environmental factors. Water temperature showed significant variability (8.1–27.4 °C; P < 0.0002), but no statistically significant differences were observed in parameters such as pH, and TDS (P > 0.05). The increase in temperature indicates a potential risk for algal blooms. The taxonomic composition and abundance patterns of algal communities along the southern Caspian Sea coast are influenced by environmental conditions and play an important role in evaluating the ecological health of aquatic ecosystems. https://plantfungalres.az/uploads/2026-1/muradova sayadlı, malikli.pdf 2026-06-15 https://doi.org/10.30546/2664-5297.2026.9.01.078   diversity indices hydrochemical parameters macroalgae phytoplankton saprobic index seasonal variability Aytaj B. Muradova Sayadli 1 AUTHOR Yagut M. Malikli 2 AUTHOR

ORIGINAL_ARTICLE The present study investigated the morpho logical characteristics of species belonging to the genus Teucrium (T. chamaedrys, T. orientale, T. hircanicum and T. polium) collected from Guba massif of the Greater Caucasus. The aim of the research was to identify the characteristic morphological features of the collected species and to clarify their diagnostic characteristics. Based on 33 plant specimens collected during field studies conducted in 2021–2022, the structure of the stem, leaf, flower, fruit was examined and compared with literature data. Interspecific differences were determined in the structure of vegetative and generative organs, including the shape of the leaf blade, leaf margin structure, color of the calyx and corolla, density of pubescence, as well as the type of inflorescence. Morphometric measurements of traits such as inflorescence length, distance between inflorescences and number of flowers per inflorescence were also conducted. The arithmetic mean (M) and standard deviation (SD) were calculated for the measured traits and the level of variability was assessed using the coefficient of variation (CV) and the adjusted coefficient of variation (CVcorr). The results of the study make a scientific contribution to a deeper study of the species diversity of the flora of the Greater Caucasus and the systematic characteristics of Teucrium. https://plantfungalres.az/uploads/2026-1/haciyeva, salimov.pdf 2026-06-15 https://doi.org/10.30546/2664-5297.2026.9.01.089   generative germander plant species diversity specimen vegetative Sabina F. Hajiyeva 1 AUTHOR Rashad A. Salimov 2 AUTHOR

ORIGINAL_ARTICLE Pesticides transported from agricultural land into freshwater ecosystems may adversely affect aquatic organisms and disrupt ecological balance. This study investigated the effects of two imidacloprid-based pesticides (Kingprid and Kingema) on Cladophora glomerata collected from Zangilan district. This filamentous green alga was selected as a model organism due to its sensitivity to environmental changes and its ecological role as a primary producer in freshwater habitats. Chlorophyll content, cell viability, and structural alterations were evaluated as indicators of stress. The results showed that both pesticide formulations led to a marked decline in chlorophyll content and cellular viability, with the intensity of effects increasing under higher exposure levels. At lower exposure, only slight pigment fading and minor structural modifications were observed, whereas higher exposure resulted in pronounced discoloration, membrane damage, cytoplasmic shrinkage, and fragmentation of algal filaments. Comparative analysis indicated that Kingprid exerted a stronger toxic effect than Kingema across all observed parameters. One-way ANOVA confirmed statistically significant differences among the treatments (p < 0.001), demonstrating a clear relationship between pesticide exposure and algal response. These findings suggest that imidacloprid-based pesticides can negatively impact freshwater algal communities, potentially reducing primary productivity and altering ecosystem stability. The study highlights the importance of incorporating algal bioassays and bioindicator species into ecological risk assessment and environmental monitoring programs, particularly in regions with increasing agricultural activity, such as the Zangilan district. https://plantfungalres.az/uploads/2026-1/umudova, muxtarova.pdf 2026-06-15 https://doi.org/10.30546/2664-5297.2026.9.01.095   aquatic pollution bioindicators cell viability chlorophyll degradation ecological stress filamentous algae Kingema Kingprid pesticide toxicity Shafiga S. Umudova 1 AUTHOR Shakar J. Mukhtarova 2 AUTHOR