Analysis of shoreline changes in the Kazakh Sector of the Caspian Sea based on remote sensing data in the context of their impact on the coastal zone ecosystem
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32523/8gwpta33Keywords:
remote sensing, MODIS, Landsat, Sentinel-2, coastal zone monitoring, ecosystemAbstract
In recent decades, the coastline of the Kazakh sector of the Caspian Sea has undergone significant changes caused by fluctuations in sea level under the influence of natural and anthropogenic factors. These processes have had a considerable impact on the coastal ecosystems of western Kazakhstan, leading to wetland degradation, reduction of the sea surface area, and transformations of the coastal relief. To analyze changes in the shoreline of the Kazakh sector of the Caspian Sea, remote sensing data from MODIS, Landsat, and Sentinel-2 were used. In addition, field observations were carried out in key areas using drones to obtain detailed spatial information.
The combined use of satellite data and field observations made it possible to identify spatial and temporal trends in ecosystem transformation. The results show that between 2000 and 2025, the total sea surface area decreased to 16,834 km², with the most significant coastal changes observed in the northern part of the Kazakh sector of the Caspian Sea. According to the observations, shallow water zones, salt marshes, and desert landscapes are forming in areas such as Peshnoy, Prorva, Mertvyy Kultuk, the Novinsky Nature Reserve, and the “Akzhayik” State Nature Reserve. These transformations lead to a reduction of natural habitats for many species and noticeable ecosystem degradation. The results highlight the systemic nature of ecosystem transformations in the Kazakh sector of the Caspian Sea and emphasize the importance of regular monitoring, assessment of the hydrological balance, and development of measures for conservation and restoration of coastal ecosystems.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Серик Ахметов, Дмитрий Малахов (Автор)
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