1. Mediterranean Forests, Woodlands, and Shrublands:
* The Greater Caucasus: This mountainous region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to dense forests of beech, oak, and hornbeam. Higher elevations transition to subalpine and alpine meadows with unique flora.
* The Lesser Caucasus: This region features mixed forests, primarily with oak and hornbeam, as well as shrublands and grasslands.
* The Talysh Mountains: This region holds a unique mix of broadleaf forests (chestnut, oak, beech) and mixed forests with elements of the Hyrcanian forests.
2. Temperate Grasslands, Savannas, and Shrublands:
* The Kura-Araz Lowland: This vast plain, stretching between the Kura and Araz rivers, is a semi-arid steppe region with sparse vegetation, mainly grasses and Artemisia (sagebrush).
3. Temperate Deciduous Forests:
* The Hyrcanian forests: Located along the southern slopes of the Alborz Mountains, these forests are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for their ancient trees, including the world's largest known chestnut tree. They feature diverse species like oak, beech, maple, and linden.
4. Arid and Semi-Arid Deserts and Shrublands:
* The Karabakh Highland: This region features steppes, semi-deserts, and mountain meadows, influenced by its semi-arid climate.
5. Mountains:
* The Caucasus Mountains: The Greater and Lesser Caucasus Mountains, spanning the country, showcase diverse ecological zones, from coniferous forests at lower elevations to alpine meadows and glaciers at higher altitudes.
6. Wetlands:
* The Caspian Sea: Azerbaijan's coastline along the Caspian Sea features diverse wetland habitats, including lagoons, marshes, and sandbanks, supporting a rich array of birdlife.
* The Kura-Araz Lowland: This area also includes wetlands, particularly along the Kura and Araz rivers, hosting crucial habitats for migratory birds.
7. Coastal:
* The Caspian Sea: Azerbaijan's coastline is influenced by the Caspian Sea, leading to unique habitats for marine life and coastal vegetation.
It's important to note that the exact boundaries of these biomes are not always clear-cut and there is a lot of overlap and transition zones. However, this overview provides a good understanding of the major ecological regions found in Azerbaijan.
