Ecological Evolution of Medicinal Plants of Azerbaijan and Its Relation to Modern EcologicalChallenges, Including the State of Blue-Green Algae (Cyanoprokaryota) of the Caspian Sea

Abstract

This article presents an overview of the ecological evolution of medicinal plants in Azerbaijan, including adaptation mechanisms, biogeographical factors, and modern threats. Special attention is paid to the relationship between terrestrial plant ecosystems and the condition of the aquatic ecosystems of the Caspian Sea, with an emphasis on the spread of cyanobacteria. In the Caspian Sea, anthropogenic factors, including riverbed alterations, water pollution from various sources, overfishing and poaching, as well as species invasion, have led to a decline in biodiversity and placed endemic species under threat. The analysis shows that climate change, eutrophication, sea level decline, and anthropogenic pressure have a complex impact on both marine and coastal terrestrial ecosystems. Recommendations are proposed for the protection of medicinal plants and the management of the ecological condition of the Caspian Sea.