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The purpose of the research is to study the fauna of parasitic worms of bats (Chiroptera) in the National Park «Smolny» (Republic of Mordovia).Materials and methods. In 2018–2021, the helminth fauna of 445 ind. of 8 bat species at 10 locations in the National Park «Smolny» was studied using the method of complete helminthological necropsy. Parasitic worms were collected, fixed and processed using standard methods.Results and discussion. A total of 31 helminth species were recorded in bats of the National Park "Smolny": 3 – cestodes, 20 – trematodes and 8 – nematodes. The trematode Prosthodendrium cryptholecithum and the larva of the nematode Physaloptera clausa were found for the first time in Russian bats. The trematodes Gyrabascus amphoraeformis and G. oppositus were found for the first time in bats of the Middle Volga Region. The determining factors of helminth infection of bats are feeding predominantly on aquatic insects and poor contact of animals with the terrestrial environment. Of the 31 species of parasites found in bats, 28 species are specific parasites of bats, which is explained by the ecological isolation of this group of flying mammals and the antiquity of the co-evolution of bats and their parasites. An annotated list of helminths of bats is given, including their systematic position, host range, localization, infection rates, sites of detection and distribution. Among bats, the helminth fauna of the common noctule (15 species), Daubenton's bat (13) and Nathusius' pipistrelle (12) is the richest. The helminth fauna of the pond bat (6 species), lesser noctule (5) and Natterer's bat (4) is less represented. The greatest distribution in bats of the National Park "Smolny" has the trematode Plagiorchis koreanus and the nematode Pterothominx neopulchra noted each in 6 species of hosts. Only one helminth species (nematode Physocephalus sexalatus), which is of medical and veterinary importance as the causative agent of a dangerous helminthosis, has been recorded in bats.

Introduction. The transformation of the information space entails changes in the communication practices of the speakers of various ethnic cultures. Internet resources combined with traditional media provide new, previously unknown opportunities for the presentation and broadcasting of cultural values and unique features of ethnic groups. This situation actualizes the need to study the level of the use of media products in the languages of various ethnic groups. One of the objectives of the study is to assess the media us of the residents of the Republic of Mordovia in the languages of the titular ethnic groups. Materials and Methods. The methodological basis was the data of sociological studies. The article summarizes the results of a representative questionnaire "Interethnic, ethno-confessional relations, language situation and migration processes in the Republic of Mordovia" conducted in 2022 and 2023, and a survey of experts "Ethnolanguage situation in the Republic of Mordovia" conducted in September 2023. Results and Discussion. The results of the study of the language preferences of the population allow stating the predominant demand for Russian-language media products among the majority of the respondents. The audience of television, radio broadcasts, and printed materials in Moksha, Erzya, and Tatar languages is a small proportion of the respondents of Mordovian/Tatar nationalities. The main reasons for the rejection of media in the Moksha and Erzya languages were the lack of knowledge of the languages and lack of interest in the content of media products in the Mordovian languages. It is revealed that the content of media resources in a minority language is mostly indifferent to the native speakers themselves, who make up the target audience. The largest proportion of the respondents who found it difficult to answer was also noted among Moksha and Erzya population. Conclusion. In order to attract the interest of a wider audience to the products of the republican media in the Mordovian/Tatar languages, it is advisable to conduct a marketing study of the preferences of consumers of media resources. It is necessary to change the concept of forming programs and broadcasts in the language of the indigenous peoples of the Republic, provide them with more rated airtime, and attract the readership with popular headings, collections or pages for various age groups, interesting and creative projects, continue broadcasting educational cycle programs that allow everyone to master Mordovian/Tatar language. It is advisable to expand the presence of national languages in the most popular Internet resources. At the same time, the content should not be formal or official. The materials of the article may be useful for researchers and government representatives interested in the problems of preserving, popularizing and promoting media resources in the languages of the titular ethnic groups.

Our research, which has yielded unique findings, is dedicated to the study of the dynamics of the number of flora species in a forest-protected area (Mordovia State Nature Reserve, European Russia) for the period 1936-2023. During this period, there was an increase in the number of species of both native (from 525 to 695 species) and alien (from 38 to 174 species) flora. Based on the above data, we conclude that the composition of the native flora of the MSNR is more than 99% identified. In the first years of the flora inventory, about 70% of the native flora is identified. The spectrum of families of the native flora of the MSNR has changed little over time. After the first inventory, the number of families in the flora does not add up to much (78 in 1936, 87 in 2023). There is mainly an increase in the number of identified genera in already known families and species within identified genera. In the spectrum of families of alien flora there are constant changes, new genera from different families, species within genera are added. The floristic data analysis revealed that the natural flora exhibited characteristics of a forest, despite the presence of a forest-steppe zone adjacent to the southern border of the MSNR. The primary indicators of systematic structure, composition of life forms, and ranges of species of native flora collectively indicate that the Mordovia State Nature Reserve forest area is situated within the natural zone of mixed (coniferousbroadleaved) forests. A comparison of long-term data from the MSNR flora study revealed that the process of formation of the alien flora of the MSNR, its structure, and chorological groups has not been completed yet. It will continue until the cultivation of plants from different continents and natural areas in protected areas is banned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study presents an analysis of the Coleoptera fauna in the forests of the Euro-pean Russia in 2022 and 2023, after a fire. Insects were sampled from burned plots (9) in 2010 and 2021, as well as unburned (control) plots (2), and alpha diversity was compared. After processing the material, we examined a total of 12,218 Coleoptera specimens from 38 families and identified 194 species. The families Nitidulidae, Cerambycidae, Elateridae, and Scarabaeidae were the most abundant across all plots. Cerambycidae, Elateridae, Nitidulidae, Staphylinidae, Coccinellidae, and Scarabaeidae exhibited the greatest species diversity. In total, 17 species were found on all plots. Only five species exhibited preferences for some certain plots. Maximum abundance and species diversity were observed on unburned (control) plots. The plots where fires occurred in 2010 and 2021 had the lowest total abundance values for Coleoptera. These fires destroyed almost all potential sites for beetle settlement, feeding, breeding, and shelter. Fires can significantly impact forest ecosystems. However, studies on the effects of fires on insect communities in post-fire plots in natural forests are rare. This study presents an analysis of the Coleoptera fauna in the forests of the Mordovia State Nature Reserve (European Russia) in 2022 and 2023 after a fire. Insects were sampled from burned plots (9) in 2010 and 2021, as well as unburned (control) plots (2), and alpha diversity was compared. After processing the material, we examined a total of 12,218 Coleoptera specimens from 38 families and identified 194 species. The families Nitidulidae, Cerambycidae, Elateridae, and Scarabaeidae were the most abundant across all plots. Cerambycidae, Elateridae, Nitidulidae, Staphylinidae, Coccinellidae, and Scarabaeidae exhibited the greatest species diversity. In total, 17 species were found on all plots, including Cetonia aurata, Protaetia cuprea volhyniensis, Trogoderma glabrum, Carpophilus hemipterus, Epuraea biguttata, Glischrochilus grandis, Glischrochilus hortensis, Glischrochilus quadripunctatus, Soronia grisea, Pediacus depressus, Chrysanthia geniculata, Anastrangalia reyi, Leptura quadrifasciata, Leptura thoracica, Lepturalia nigripes, Rhagium mordax, and Anisandrus dispar. Only five species exhibited preferences for certain plots. Maximum abundance and species diversity were observed on unburned (control) plots. The plots where fires occurred in 2010 and 2021 had the lowest total abundance values for Coleoptera. These fires destroyed almost all potential sites for beetle settlement, feeding, breeding, and shelter. Traps recorded a higher abundance of Coleoptera in the first year after fires compared to the second year. The Coleoptera fauna showed the greatest similarity on the control plots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The importance of exploring the specificity of shaping the historical memory among young people is due to the fact that it is this age that is crucial in the formation of worldview attitudes and civic identity. In modern geopolitical conditions, when the falsification of historical events of Russia's past takes place, the analysis of the factors of studentsʼ involvement in the space of historical practices and narratives that influence the formation of their historical memory is especially important. The aim of the article is to measure the level of students' involvement in the space of historical practices and narratives on the basis of quantitative and qualitative sociological research data; to identify the factors influencing the historical memory of student youth in the Republic of Mordovia. Materials and Methods. The empirical basis of the study constituted the findings derived from 20 semi-structured interviews with young people between 18 and 25 years old, as well as the results of an online survey held among university and secondary educational institutions learners in the Republic of Mordovia (n = 700). Multistage composite sampling. Results. Based on cluster analysis, three groups of student youth were identified according to the level of involvement in the space of historical practices and narratives. The relationship between belonging to a specific cluster and socio-demographic factors is presented: gender, level of education and place of residence turned out to be significant. Among the factors influencing the level of involvement in historical practices and narratives are cognitive interest in history, family memories, and active use of media. It has been established that the significance of these factors in shaping the historical memory of young people may vary. The most significant factors are historical education (at secondary school, vocational education institution, university), the role of teacher as a mediator of historical knowledge, as well as the continuity and depth of family memory. Discussion and Conclusion. The results of the study determine the factors of student youth involvement in the space of historical practices and narratives and supplement the sociological understanding of the processes of constructing the historical memory. The materials of the article may be of interest to specialists engaged in patriotic education, historical education of youth, practitioners involved in the development of youth policy.

(1) Background: Carabidae is one of the most diverse families of Coleoptera. Many species of Carabidae are sensitive to anthropogenic impacts and are indicators of their environmental state. Some species of large beetles are on the verge of extinction. The aim of this research is to describe the Carabidae fauna of the Republic of Mordovia (central part of European Russia); (2) Methods: The research was carried out in April-September 1979, 1987, 2000, 2001, 2005, 2007–2022. Collections were performed using a variety of methods (light trapping, soil traps, window traps, etc.). For each observation, the coordinates of the sampling location, abundance, and dates were recorded; (3) Results: The dataset contains data on 251 species of Carabidae from 12 subfamilies and 4576 occurrences. A total of 66,378 specimens of Carabidae were studied. Another 29 species are additionally known from other publications. Also, twenty-two species were excluded from the fauna of the region, as they were determined earlier by mistake (4). Conclusions: The biodiversity of Carabidae in the Republic of Mordovia included 280 species from 12 subfamilies. Four species (Agonum scitulum, Lebia scapularis, Bembidion humerale, and Bembidion tenellum) were identified for the first time in the Republic of Mordovia. Dataset:  https://doi.org/10.15468/5zvf4v. Accessed on (12 October 2023) Dataset License: Creative Commons Attribution (CC-BY) 4.0 License [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study represents the first investigation of the vertical distribution of Drosophilidae in the European part of Russia. Traps suspended at various heights in deciduous forests were used to collect the specimens. Among the collected species, Drosophila obscura Fll. and Scaptodrosophila rufifrons Lw. were the most abundant. The highest total number of drosophilid flies (10,429 individuals) was captured at a height of 1.5 m, while the lowest number (5086 individuals) was recorded at 12 m. Five distinct vertical distribution patterns of drosophilids were identified throughout the season, demonstrating significant differences between mycetobiont and xylosaprobiont ecological groups. The maximum species diversity occurred in June and September. Research of Diptera in temperate forests has demonstrated uneven vertical distributions of insects. In this study, we examined the vertical distribution, seasonal fluctuations, and species diversity of Drosophilidae species in the Mordovia State Reserve. This research marks the first exploration of drosophilid vertical stratification in the European part of Russia. Using traps, we collected flies in four deciduous forest sites between early June and mid-September in 2020. A total of 27,151 individuals from 10 genera and 34 drosophilid species were identified, with 6 species from 4 genera being new to the Republic of Mordovia. Drosophila obscura Fll. and Scaptodrosophila rufifrons Lw. were the most abundant species in traps. The total highest number of drosophilid flies (10,429 individuals) was captured at a height of 1.5 m, while the lowest number (5086 individuals) was recorded at 12 m. The average number of flies was 6240 and 5387 individuals at heights of 7.5 m and 3.5 m, respectively. However, the prevalence of drosophilid numbers at the 1.5-m height was not constant during the season. We found that in the second part of July the total fly counts at heights of 7.5 m and 12 m exceeded those at 1.5 m. We have described five different types of vertical distribution of drosophilids throughout the season, which differs markedly in mycetobionts and xylosaprobionts ecological groups. Species diversity demonstrated variations across different sites and tiers during the season, with peak diversity observed in June and September. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fires can significantly impact forest ecosystems. However, studies on the effects of fires on insect communities in post-fire plots in natural forests are rare. This study presents an analysis of the Coleoptera fauna in the forests of the Mordovia State Nature Reserve (European Russia) in 2022 and 2023 after a fire. Insects were sampled from burned plots (9) in 2010 and 2021, as well as unburned (control) plots (2), and alpha diversity was compared. After processing the material, we examined a total of 12,218 Coleoptera specimens from 38 families and identified 194 species. The families Nitidulidae, Cerambycidae, Elateridae, and Scarabaeidae were the most abundant across all plots. Cerambycidae, Elateridae, Nitidulidae, Staphylinidae, Coccinellidae, and Scarabaeidae exhibited the greatest species diversity. In total, 17 species were found on all plots, including Cetonia aurata, Protaetia cuprea volhyniensis, Trogoderma glabrum, Carpophilus hemipterus, Epuraea biguttata, Glischrochilus grandis, Glischrochilus hortensis, Glischrochilus quadripunctatus, Soronia grisea, Pediacus depressus, Chrysanthia geniculata, Anastrangalia reyi, Leptura quadrifasciata, Leptura thoracica, Lepturalia nigripes, Rhagium mordax, and Anisandrus dispar. Only five species exhibited preferences for certain plots. Maximum abundance and species diversity were observed on unburned (control) plots. The plots where fires occurred in 2010 and 2021 had the lowest total abundance values for Coleoptera. These fires destroyed almost all potential sites for beetle settlement, feeding, breeding, and shelter. Traps recorded a higher abundance of Coleoptera in the first year after fires compared to the second year. The Coleoptera fauna showed the greatest similarity on the control plots.

Orthopteroidea is an ecologically diverse group of incompletely transformed insects that includes several insect orders similar in development and structure. Many species from Dermaptera, Orthoptera, Mantodea, and Blattodea are sensitive to anthropogenic influences and are indicators of the external environment. Some species cause damage to agriculture and forestry; others are inhabitants of human dwellings and pests of food supplies. The aim of this study is to describe fauna of some orders of Orthopteroidea in the Republic of Mordovia, in the central part of European Russia. This study was conducted in April–October 1971, 1984, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2000, 2001, and 2004–2023. All possible habitats were studied using a variety of methods (entomological traps, pitfall traps, pan traps, etc.). An acoustic method of species identification was also used. For each observation, the coordinates of location, abundance, and dates were recorded. The dataset contains 4865 occurrences. In total, 16,644 specimens of Orthopteroidea were studied. The dataset contains 71 species including Dermaptera (4), Orthoptera (62), Mantodea (1), and Blattodea (4). Of these, 13 species are identified for the first time in the region; these mainly inhabit steppe areas. The presence of two Orthoptera species has not been confirmed yet during our studies; these species are noted in this paper according an old published paper. The biodiversity of Mordovia includes 73 species from four orders. The biology of numerous species, their seasonal dynamics, and some descriptions of biotopes and number of new species are described. Dataset:  https://doi.org/10.15468/cmr3yy. Dataset License: Creative Commons Attribution (CC-BY) 4.0 License [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The article summarizes the results of a study of the ethnic and confessional culture of Mordovian students. The objectives of the study were to identify the degree of preservation of individual components of ethnic culture among Mordovian students; to analyze of the level of their religiosity and affiliation to the local church; to study the degree of influence other cultural systems on their worldview. Materials and Methods. The methodological basis of the study was the Internet survey. The total of 100 Mordovian students took part in the survey: 63 people from the Republic of Mordovia (Mordovian State Pedagogical University) and 37 people from the Ulyanovsk region (Ulyanovsk State Pedagogical University). Results and Discussion. The article describes the ideas of Mordovian students about sacred places and national heroes, the proficiency in the national language, the perception of the national language as a native language, the existence of a festive and ritual culture, religiosity and confessional affiliation, religious behavior and religious beliefs, etc. It reveals and interprets the influence of living in the multicultural region on a significant proportion of people who recognize non-Mordovian as their native language, and on the syncretization in the mass consciousness of respondents of holidays of different genesis: international, Russian national, Christian, national public, and Mordovian national holidays. Conclusion. An analysis of the materials of the Internet survey allows to conclude that, in general, Mordovian students are characterized by a positive attitude towards Mordovian culture. The interest of the respondents is especially noticeable when answering questions that refer to ethnic self-consciousness issues that have more symbolic than practical/everyday meaning. Although Mordovian students consider themselves Orthodox Christians, their religious culture is no less diverse, a significant part of which is integrated to varying degrees in the culture of Orthodoxy. At the same time, some Mordovian students are not without occult influence.

Introduction. The article presents the results of the analysis of the lexical and symbolic representation of the image of the Republic of Mordovia by the population of the region. Such study of the components of the ethno-cultural image of the Republic is based on the results of a sociological survey which was conducted for the first time. Materials and Methods. The research material was compiled from the data of the sociological survey “’Identification of brands of the Republic of Mordovia”, conducted in March – April 2022 among the residents of the Republic, as well as among the representatives of the target group, which included the employees of cultural institutions. The method of collecting information was an online survey (CAWI) carried out on the Google Forms platform. The cluster analysis by the k-means method was used to analyze the obtained data. Results and Discussion. Based on the cluster analysis, two groups of respondents were identified: those who perceive the region positively and those who evaluate it negatively. The reference points of the positive perception of the Republic were the lexemes friendly, own, hospitable, and the negative – poor. To define modern Mordovia, the respondents most often chose such evaluation lexemes as hospitable, friendly, own, conflict-free, cultural, sunny, open. The symbolic image of the region for the majority of the respondents is associated with the coat of arms of the region, the fox, the self-designation region 13, the birch and Mastorava, the goddess of the Earth. Conclusion. The results of the sociological survey revealed the predominance of positively colored lexemes of the respondentsʼ responses, which serve to characterize the region and its inhabitants. Mordovia is most often correlated with officially approved symbols of the territory and its self-designation, as well as with the images personifying such parameters of Mordovian mythology as fertility and the femininity.

(1) Background: Beetles in the superfamily Scarabaeoidea are one of the most important groups of Coleoptera. They are found in various ecosystems all over the world and belong to coprophagous, necrophagous, saproxylophagous, phyllophagous and rhizophagous types. The aim of the study is to describe the fauna and distribution of Scarabaeoidea in the Republic of Mordovia (central part of European Russia); (2) Methods: The study was conducted from 2003 to 2023. Collection material (specimens from 1972 and 1986) was also used. Specimens were collected using traditional Coleoptera collecting methods (manual collecting, light trap, collection of rotten remains and pitfall traps). For each observation, the coordinates, number of specimens and dates were recorded; (3) Results: The dataset contains 3198 occurrences. We examined 11,011 specimens of Scarabaeoidea. The dataset contains information on 88 species of Scarabaeoidea. Of these, five species (Aphodius pedellus, Nobius serotinus, Phaeaphodius rectus, Planolinus fasciatus and Onthophagus medius) are listed for the region for the first time. Another seven species are additionally known from others taken from the literature (but were not found during the present field survey); (4) Conclusions: Species diversity of Scarabaeoidea of Mordovia accounts for 95 species from 4 families (Geotrupidae, Trogidae, Lucanidae and Scarabaeidae). Ten species (Protaetia marmorata, Anoplotrupes stercorosus, Cetonia aurata, Protaetia cuprea volhyniensis, Oxythyrea funesta, Platycerus caraboides, Serica brunnea, Melolontha hippocastani, Trichius fasciatus and Protaetia fieberi) constitute the main population of Scarabaeoidea fauna given in the dataset. The species diversity of Scarabaeoidea of the Republic of Mordovia is roughly similar in number of species to that of neighboring or more northern regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Forest edges significantly influence the distribution of many beetles. In 2020–2022, in the Republic of Mordovia (Russia), we used beer traps to collect beetles in four sites, located on the forest edges, and in forest interiors. Eight traps were on each site (edge–below, edge–above, forest interior–below, and forest interior–above) with two traps per plot. The traps were located at heights of 1.5 (below) and 7.5 m (above) above the ground. More than 13,000 specimens from 35 families were recorded. There were 13 species common to all plots, including four (Protaetia marmorata, Cryptarcha strigata, Glischrochilus grandis, and Soronia grisea) in all traps. The general pattern was the highest beetle diversity on the forest edge in the lower traps, while the total number of all species on the edges was lower. At the edges, the Shannon index was almost always higher or equal to similar values in traps in the forest interior. Based on our data, the number of saproxylic beetles prevails inside forest areas, and the highest number of them was found in the upper traps. In all plots, we found a relatively higher number of anthophilic beetles at the forest edge in the upper traps. Forest edges, which are ecotones, have a significant impact on the spatial distribution of many Coleoptera species. This research was carried out in 2020–2022 on the territory of the Republic of Mordovia (the center of the European part of Russia). Beer traps (with a bait made of beer with sugar) were used to collect Coleoptera. Four plots were selected for the research, which differed in the composition of plants on the edges, adjacent open ecosystems, and types of forest ecosystems. The forest adjoined closely to this open ecosystem. Inside the forest interior, at 300–350 m, a control inner section of the forest with a closed canopy was selected. There were eight traps on each site: edge–below, edge–above, forest interior–below, and forest interior–above, with two traps in each plot. These traps were located at a height of 1.5 (below) and 7.5 m (above) above the ground on tree branches. In total, more than 13,000 specimens from 35 families were recorded. Cerambycidae, Nitidulidae, Curculionidae, and Elateridae had the greatest species diversity. Nitidulidae (71.6% of all individuals), Curculionidae (8.3%), Scarabaeidae (7.7%), and Cerambycidae (2.4%) predominated in total number. There were 13 species common to all plots. At the same time, only four species were found in all traps (Protaetia marmorata, Cryptarcha strigata, Glischrochilus grandis, and Soronia grisea). The abundance of P. marmorata on all plots at an altitude of 7.5 m on the edges was greater. G. grandis prevailed in the lower traps. The abundance of C. strigata and S. grisea varied depending on the location of the trap on different plots. The general pattern was the greatest species diversity of Coleoptera on the edges in the lower traps. At the same time, the total number of all species on the edges was lower. At the edges, the Shannon index was practically always higher or equal to similar indicators in traps located in the forest interior. According to the average values of all plots, it turned out that the number of species of saproxylic Coleoptera prevails inside forest areas, and the largest number of saproxiles was found in the upper traps. An interesting feature for all plots was a more significant relative number of anthophilic species at the edge in the upper traps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperate forests are highly complex ecosystems in which many aspects of invertebrate distribution and abundance remain poorly understood. In order to accumulate data on the vertical and temporal distribution of forest Lepidoptera in the Republic of Mordovia (central European part of Russia), specimens were collected with beer-baited traps from April to October in 2019–2022. Traps were deployed at different heights above ground level (i.e., 1,5, 3,5, 7, and 12 m) in deciduous forests, pine forests, forest edges, and forest glades. Over the four-year sampling period, over 69,000 specimens of Lepidoptera were collected and examined. In deciduous forests, maximum abundance was observed at 12 m above ground level, whereas in pine forests, maximum abundance was observed at 7 m. In both forest types, the lowest abundance was observed at the lowest sample sites (i.e., 1.5 m above ground level). In forest glades in 2020, maximum abundance was observed at 2 m, with abundance showing a conspicuous decline with trap height above the ground. However, this pattern was not repeated in subsequent years. Lepidoptera exhibited various patterns of seasonal abundance among habitat types, but most showed bi- or trimodal patterns (corresponding with spring summer and fall), with the greatest number of specimens captured in late summer or autumn. Forest edges showed the greatest abundance of all sampled habitat types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first inventory of alien species in the Republic of Mordovia was conducted in 2000. The article provides information on changes in the species composition, as well as the taxonomic and typological structures of the region's alien flora that have occurred for 20 years. The enrichment of the flora in new species was revealed. Enrichment of flora with new species was recorded, mainly due to species escaped from the cultural plantings. The role of the transport routes in the dispersal of alien species has increased. Among natural habitats, fragments of meadow steppe, water bodies, and swamps were relatively stable in the colonization of new alien species. The analysis of the lists of species in 2000 and 2020 was carried out for changes in the degree of naturalization by species. The corresponding examples of views are given in the article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fauna of caddisflies was studied from two protected areas of federal significance such as Mordovia State Nature Reserve (Temnikov district, Republic of Mordovia) and National Park "Smolny" (Ichalki district and Bolshoe Ignatovo district, Republic of Mordovia). The material was collected from May to October 2008, 2009, 2013–2021. There were 677 specimens from 59 caddisfly species from 12 families. The largest family Limnephilidae includes 29 species, there were 9 species each in the families Phryganeidae and Leptoceridae. Limnephilus sericeus and Holocentropus dubius dominated in the collections (12 and 10% from the total amount respectively), Hydropsyche angustipennis (8.9%), Hagenella clathrata (8.7%), Phryganea grandis (7.5%), Hydropsyche pellucidula (7.1%), Halesus tesselatus (6.6%) were numerous. Eighteen species of caddisflies (Rhyacophila fasciata, Holocentropus dubius, Agrypnia varia, Oligostomis reticulata, Anabolia concentrica, Anabolia furcata, Chaetopteryx villosa, Halesus digitatus, Limnephilus binotatus, Limnephilus extracatus, Limnephilus fuscicornis, Limnephilus ignavus, Limnephilus sericeus, Limnephilus sparsus, Limnephilus vittatus, Micropterna lateralis, Molanna albicans, Ceraclea excisa) supplement the known information on the fauna of the Republic of Mordovia, where 73 species from 14 families are currently recorded. The species Molanna albicans is indicated for the first time for the fauna of the Middle Volga region. Non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis revealed similarities and differences in the composition of trichopterofauna among the study sites. There was the maximum similarity among the sites with more diverse biotopes. There were indicated preferred habitats of some species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Carabidae is one of the most diverse families of Coleoptera. Many species of Carabidae are sensitive to anthropogenic impacts and are indicators of their environmental state. Some species of large beetles are on the verge of extinction. The aim of this research is to describe the Carabidae fauna of the Republic of Mordovia (central part of European Russia); (2) Methods: The research was carried out in April-September 1979, 1987, 2000, 2001, 2005, 2007–2022. Collections were performed using a variety of methods (light trapping, soil traps, window traps, etc.). For each observation, the coordinates of the sampling location, abundance, and dates were recorded; (3) Results: The dataset contains data on 251 species of Carabidae from 12 subfamilies and 4576 occurrences. A total of 66,378 specimens of Carabidae were studied. Another 29 species are additionally known from other publications. Also, twenty-two species were excluded from the fauna of the region, as they were determined earlier by mistake (4). Conclusions: The biodiversity of Carabidae in the Republic of Mordovia included 280 species from 12 subfamilies. Four species (Agonum scitulum, Lebia scapularis, Bembidion humerale, and Bembidion tenellum) were identified for the first time in the Republic of Mordovia.

Research of Diptera in temperate forests has demonstrated uneven vertical distributions of insects. In this study, we examined the vertical distribution, seasonal fluctuations, and species diversity of Drosophilidae species in the Mordovia State Reserve. This research marks the first exploration of drosophilid vertical stratification in the European part of Russia. Using traps, we collected flies in four deciduous forest sites between early June and mid-September in 2020. A total of 27,151 individuals from 10 genera and 34 drosophilid species were identified, with 6 species from 4 genera being new to the Republic of Mordovia. Drosophila obscura Fll. and Scaptodrosophila rufifrons Lw. were the most abundant species in traps. The total highest number of drosophilid flies (10,429 individuals) was captured at a height of 1.5 m, while the lowest number (5086 individuals) was recorded at 12 m. The average number of flies was 6240 and 5387 individuals at heights of 7.5 m and 3.5 m, respectively. However, the prevalence of drosophilid numbers at the 1.5-m height was not constant during the season. We found that in the second part of July the total fly counts at heights of 7.5 m and 12 m exceeded those at 1.5 m. We have described five different types of vertical distribution of drosophilids throughout the season, which differs markedly in mycetobionts and xylosaprobionts ecological groups. Species diversity demonstrated variations across different sites and tiers during the season, with peak diversity observed in June and September.

During four years of sampling by canopy traps with fermenting baits, adults of the Quedius dilatatus rove beetle were collected in large quantities together with the Vespa crabro hornet across several regions in Central European Russia. Contrary to previous reports which stemmed from collecting methods inadequate for this 'rare' inquiline of the European hornet Vespa crabro, Q.dilatatus is found to be a common and widespread beetle. Moreover, the maximum numbers of beetles were found in the period between the first (spring) and second (summer) peaks of the hornet abundance, i.e. at the early stages of the hornet nests' growth to their peaks. A similar pattern was revealed by the same type of sampling during one year within a smaller area of the Mordovia State Nature Reserve, albeit with variation determined by the type of sampled forest. Apparently, such adjustment of the life cycle of the inquiline beetle to that of its host is a compromise between the possibility for efficient search of the hornet nests by beetles using olfactory stimuli, and the availability of a sufficient time period needed for the development of the beetle larvae. The latter, as shown by earlier studies, prey on fly larvae in the debris around active nests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a changing climate, phenological observations are gaining new importance. They can tell what changes are taking place in certain environmental conditions. The studies were conducted in 2019 within the territory of the Republic of Mordovia (the center of the European part of Russia). Beer traps (beer as a bait) were used to collect Diptera. The material was collected in the period from April to October in different forest biotopes (pine forest, lime forest, aspen forest, birch forest and oak forest) and the air temperature was recorded at the same time. In total, more than 14.000 specimens of Diptera were recorded. Overall, 29 families were recorded. The largest number of families was observed for birch (23 families) and pine (24 families) forests, the smallest number – in aspen forest (16 families). The families Muscidae, Drosophilidae, Calliphoridae had the largest number of captured individuals (44.5%, 35.2%, 7.6% of the total number of individuals respectively). The highest number of individuals was captured in oak forest. The dynamics of abundance in all biotopes were similar and were characterized by the same number of declines and rises. The first small significant peak in the number of Diptera occurred in the first half of summer. A slight increase in the number of specimenі occurred in mid-June. In the second half of September, there was a gradual increase in the number and the maximum peak was recorded in mid-October, then there was a decline. The autumn increase in the number of Diptera in all five biotopes exceeded the summer peak by several times. This dynamic was typical for most families. However, species from the family Lonchaeidae had the peak in July. For our better understanding of the changes in the seasonal dynamics of the number of Diptera, long-term observations in different climatic zones are needed.

Introduction. The constructive image of a territory in the modern world determines its competitiveness and the possibility of various preferences in the form of subsidies from the federal center, investments from business, an increasing tourist flow, etc. Building the image is a complex process of interference of evolutionary and historical development and the existing background. The visual appearance of the regions and its transformation are associated with the images of the head/governor who acts both as the subject and the object of image-making. Materials and Methods. The methodology was based on historical-evolutionary, axiological and hermeneutic approaches, comparative, systemic and structural-functional analysis. As an applied method, the Internet monitoring of regional media publications was performed for 2020–2021. Results and Discussion. The article considers the evolution and continuity in the formation and promotion of the image of the head of the region at the present stage of development of the state and society. The role of the personified component in the regional image is shown. The Republic of Mordovia, which is in a state of transformation of power elites, was chosen for a case study. It analyzed the image types of the heads of the region from 1995 to 2020 were analyzed an image map of the Acting Head of the Republic of Mordovia A. A. Zdunov was compiled, within which the main lines of image person-positioning were studied, as well as the vectors of territory promotion updated by him. Conclusion. The authors come to the conclusion that the image type “leader-firefighter” is being promoted in the Republic of Mordovia, which is demanded by the difficult socio-economic situation of the region. The expansion of the image is carried out by means of a type of “business executive”, due to belonging to the party of power and personal characteristics. There is also an active detuning from the image of the previous leaders of the region. In particular, the work on the formation of public opinion has been strengthened, information activity and prompt response to modern development challenges are demonstrated.

Simple Summary: It is the first investigation of drosophilid seasonal population changes considering their biotope association, abundance and species diversity in European Russia. The material was collected using beer traps in different forest biotopes. Beer is an attractive component for fruit flies. Two species were most common (Drosophila obscura and Drosophila histrio). We found three groups of mass species with a significant correlation of seasonal dynamics. (1) Background: Seasonal dynamics of the abundance and species diversity of various insect groups is of great importance for understanding their life cycles; (2) Methods: In our study, Drosophilidae species and their seasonal changes in Mordovia State Nature Reserve were explored. We collected the flies by crown fermental traps in five types of forests (birch, aspen, linden, pine and oak) since May to October in 2019. (3) Results: A total of 4725 individuals belonging to 9 genera and 30 species of drosophilid flies were identified, among them 15 species in 3 genera are new to the Republic of Mordovia. Drosophila obscura and D. histrio were the most abundant species in traps, the other mass species are D. kuntzei, D. testacea, D. phalerata, S. rufifrons, D. bifasciata, A. semivirgo, and L. quinquemaculata. (4) Conclusions: We found three groups of mass species with significant correlation of seasonal dynamics, e.g., D.obscura and D. bifasciata; D. histrio, D. kuntzei, D. phalerata, and D. testacea, and, finally, A. semivirgo and S. rufifrons. Apparently, the similarity observed in the seasonal dynamics of these drosophilid species is influenced at a high degree by their food preferences and rearing sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Protected areas are "hotspots" of biodiversity in many countries. In such areas, ecological systems are preserved in their natural state, which allows them to protect animal populations. In several protected areas, the Coleoptera biodiversity is studied as an integral part of the ecological monitoring of the ecosystem state. This study was aimed to describe the Carabidae fauna in one of the largest protected areas of European Russia, namely National Park "Smolny". (2) Methods: The study was conducted in April-September 2008, 2009, 2017-2021. A variety of ways was used to collect beetles (by hand, caught in light traps, pitfall traps, and others). Seasonal dynamics of the beetle abundance were studied in various biotopes. Coordinates were fixed for each observation. (3) Results: The dataset contains 1994 occurrences. In total, 32,464 specimens of Carabidae have been studied. The dataset contains information about 131 species of Carabidae beetles. In this study, we have not found two species (Carabus estreicheri and Calathus ambiguus), previously reported in the fauna of National Park "Smolny". (4) Conclusions: The Carabidae diversity in the National Park "Smolny" is represented by 133 species from 10 subfamilies. Ten species (Carabus cancellatus, Harpalus laevipes, Carabus hortensis, Pterostichus niger, Poecilus versicolor, Pterostichus melanarius, Carabus glabratus, Carabus granulatus, Carabus arvensis baschkiricus, Pterostichus oblongopunctatus) constitute the majority of the Carabidae fauna. Seasonal dynamics are maximal in spring; the number of ground beetles decreases in biotopes by autumn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Altogether 158 species of the hoverflies are listed in this report. It includes species recorded for the Republic of Mordovia for the first time (57 spp.), those repeatedly recorded here (61 spp.), and species which are included based on their previous records (40 spp.). Three species are excluded from the previous faunal list as being based on misidentifications, and one species is considered as doubtfully recorded. Thirteen genera—Baccha Fabricius,Brachyopa Meigen, Eumerus Meigen, Neocnemodon Goffe, Lejota Rondani, Melangyna Verrall, Meligramma Frey, Meliscaeva Frey, Neoascia Williston, Orthonevra Macquart, Parasyrphus Matsumura, Pipizella Rondani, and Scaeva Fabricius—are reported for the fauna of Mordovia for the first time. The species composition and richness of the state protected areas of Mordovia are discussed. The constancy of the presence of the commonest species in the study area is compared. Reference sources of the literature records from Mordovia are provided for each previously recorded species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new material of Dolichopodidae has been recently collected and identified, and includes 72 species (39 species are new for the Republic of Mordovia, 60 species have been found for the first time in the Mordovian Nature Reserve and its environs, and one species is new for the Smolny National Park). In total, 98 species are recorded in this region that apparently makes up 40–50% of actual Dolichopodidae fauna in the Republic of Mordovia. This paper provides also distribution pattern for each collected species. The list of species found in the Mordovian Nature Reserve has increased from 11 to 71.

(1) Background: Beetles in the superfamily Scarabaeoidea are one of the most important groups of Coleoptera. They are found in various ecosystems all over the world and belong to coprophagous, necrophagous, saproxylophagous, phyllophagous and rhizophagous types. The aim of the study is to describe the fauna and distribution of Scarabaeoidea in the Republic of Mordovia (central part of European Russia); (2) Methods: The study was conducted from 2003 to 2023. Collection material (specimens from 1972 and 1986) was also used. Specimens were collected using traditional Coleoptera collecting methods (manual collecting, light trap, collection of rotten remains and pitfall traps). For each observation, the coordinates, number of specimens and dates were recorded; (3) Results: The dataset contains 3198 occurrences. We examined 11,011 specimens of Scarabaeoidea. The dataset contains information on 88 species of Scarabaeoidea. Of these, five species (Aphodius pedellus, Nobius serotinus, Phaeaphodius rectus, Planolinus fasciatus and Onthophagus medius) are listed for the region for the first time. Another seven species are additionally known from others taken from the literature (but were not found during the present field survey); (4) Conclusions: Species diversity of Scarabaeoidea of Mordovia accounts for 95 species from 4 families (Geotrupidae, Trogidae, Lucanidae and Scarabaeidae). Ten species (Protaetia marmorata, Anoplotrupes stercorosus, Cetonia aurata, Protaetia cuprea volhyniensis, Oxythyrea funesta, Platycerus caraboides, Serica brunnea, Melolontha hippocastani, Trichius fasciatus and Protaetia fieberi) constitute the main population of Scarabaeoidea fauna given in the dataset. The species diversity of Scarabaeoidea of the Republic of Mordovia is roughly similar in number of species to that of neighboring or more northern regions.

Forest edges, which are ecotones, have a significant impact on the spatial distribution of many Coleoptera species. This research was carried out in 2020–2022 on the territory of the Republic of Mordovia (the center of the European part of Russia). Beer traps (with a bait made of beer with sugar) were used to collect Coleoptera. Four plots were selected for the research, which differed in the composition of plants on the edges, adjacent open ecosystems, and types of forest ecosystems. The forest adjoined closely to this open ecosystem. Inside the forest interior, at 300–350 m, a control inner section of the forest with a closed canopy was selected. There were eight traps on each site: edge–below, edge–above, forest interior–below, and forest interior–above, with two traps in each plot. These traps were located at a height of 1.5 (below) and 7.5 m (above) above the ground on tree branches. In total, more than 13,000 specimens from 35 families were recorded. Cerambycidae, Nitidulidae, Curculionidae, and Elateridae had the greatest species diversity. Nitidulidae (71.6% of all individuals), Curculionidae (8.3%), Scarabaeidae (7.7%), and Cerambycidae (2.4%) predominated in total number. There were 13 species common to all plots. At the same time, only four species were found in all traps (Protaetia marmorata, Cryptarcha strigata, Glischrochilus grandis, and Soronia grisea). The abundance of P. marmorata on all plots at an altitude of 7.5 m on the edges was greater. G. grandis prevailed in the lower traps. The abundance of C. strigata and S. grisea varied depending on the location of the trap on different plots. The general pattern was the greatest species diversity of Coleoptera on the edges in the lower traps. At the same time, the total number of all species on the edges was lower. At the edges, the Shannon index was practically always higher or equal to similar indicators in traps located in the forest interior. According to the average values of all plots, it turned out that the number of species of saproxylic Coleoptera prevails inside forest areas, and the largest number of saproxiles was found in the upper traps. An interesting feature for all plots was a more significant relative number of anthophilic species at the edge in the upper traps.

Introduction. Memories of past events often become objects of political manipulation, when the interpretation of events that are significant for Russian history turns out to be dependent on the political preferences and attitudes of public actors. Manipulations are aimed primarily at schoolchildren and university students, them being the most active part of society with significant protest potential. The article, based on the study conducted, systematizes the representations of past events in the collective memory of young people in the multiethnic regions of the Volga Federal District (Russia) to evaluate the influence of alternative ethnic and regional narratives on the state and potential development of the ethno-confessional situation in the regions under examination. Materials and Methods. The study was based on the materials of a mass sociological survey conducted among students (n = 1,246, October 2020), in the Republic of Mordovia, Chuvash Republic and the Republic of Tatarstan. First- and second-year students of the largest universities of the republics were interviewed. To identify regional differences, respondents who came from other countries and regions were excluded from the data obtained. Results. The results of the mass survey conducted among young people in the Republic of Mordovia, Republic of Tatarstan and the Chuvash Republic have revealed the fragmented perception of Russian history. In the historical memory of the youth living in the ethnic regions of the Volga Federal District, significant events of the Soviet past have dominated, although in some cases they have been perceived and reconsidered through the prism of ethno-confessional practices. At the same time, alternative ethnic and regional narratives that could negatively affect the socio-political situation in the republics have practically not been captured in the historical consciousness of the youth. Discussion and Conclusion. At the present stage, the regional symbolic memory policies of all three republics do not fundamentally contradict the memory policies of the federal center. The results of the study will be useful to social scientists, as well as public figures engaged in youth policy.

The article considers how the rapid spread of the new coronavirus COVID-19 caused transformations in the field of media, in particular in regional journalism, using the example of a specific region ‒ the Republic of Mordovia. The purpose of the study is to study the features of changing the media agenda in the context of the spread of coronavirus, the specifics of the information in the regional media, and also the response of the audience of various types of publications. During the study, general scientific methods were used, such as systemic and structural-functional, as well as empirical ones. The continuous sampling method analyzed about 2,000 materials posted on several information resources ‒ communities of large regional mass media of the VKontakte social network. A qualitative analysis of the content of materials on the coronavirus from January to mid-May 2020 was carried out. At the same time, the coefficient of people’s involvement in the selected publication (ERpost) was analyzed. In the work, the author supplemented the list of groups into which media information about coronavirus can be divided, the situation with fakes was analyzed, three categories of sources were identified for the reliability of the information posted in them: official information of government bodies, relevant ministries, officials; mass media; social networks and Telegram channels. A study of materials on the topic of coronavirus in regional media revealed the following trends: the number of materials on coronavirus and the audience’s response to them have grown since the onset of the disease, but in May there was a general downward trend (this proves that for all the social significance of the topic, it is impossible to keep the audience’s attention at the same level for a long time); the involvement of the audience is consistently higher for materials affecting regional subjects; auditoria interests lose out to public needs, therefore, official reports are viewed more than celebrity messages, and O. Markin, the Minister of Health of the Republic, became the main media person; despite the prohibitions and the negative attitude towards clickbait, it continues to be used, including in materials on the theme of coronavirus; “hate speech” is practically not used by regional publications.

The analysis of the spatial organization of the regional land use system is included in the list of the most important management tasks to ensure sustainable eco-logical-socio-economic development of territories. This task is valid for all levels of organization of the relationship between nature and society. The article is devoted to the actual problem of analyzing the territorial differentiation of the agricultural potential of the Re-public of Mordovia. This analysis is carried out at the level of municipal districts of the region. It is a key indicator of the effectiveness of agricultural development of the region’s landscapes. The authors used data from official statistics, regional agrochemical surveys, in-formation from state land accounting and statistical reporting on state land supervision, databases and electronic maps of the regional geographical information system «Mordovia». The article estimates of the agricultural potential of the municipal districts of the Republic of Mordovia based on the calculation of integral indices. All private indicators are combined into the indices «Potential of soil fertility», «Efficiency of agricultural land use» and «Intensification of agricultural land use». The authors revealed the dependence of the integral and particular parameters of agricultural land use efficiency on various indicators based on correlation analysis. The results of the research shows that the effectiveness of agricultural land use depends on the soil fertility of arable land, the agricultural potential of the municipal districts of the Republic of Mordovia significantly depends on the differentiation of landscape conditions.

Introduction. Active promotion and positioning of the regions is a condition of their competitiveness, which actualizes the study of imaging practices aimed at creating an attractive image of the territory for various target groups: from federal elites and large businesses to tourists, highly skilled migrants, and the population. The image is based on symbolic capital, which is unique for each region. For Mordovia as a Finno-Ugric Republic in Russia, being unique is associated, firstly, with the use of ethnic symbols (elements of a national costume, Moksha / Erzia embroidery, musical instruments, dishes of national cuisine, etc.). These ethnic symbols actualize “ethnic” memory, national traditions and customs. Secondly, it is associated with the inclusion in the information space of the symbols of regional “pride”, such as “successful” fellow country people, whose positive image stimulates the processes of consolidation and identification. The purpose of this article is to study historical and modern personalities and images used in the formation of image-based visualizations of the Republic of Mordovia. Materials and methods. The methodology was based on the hermeneutic, axiological and communication paradigms. Among the applied methods such focus groups were included into the research as “Image of the Republic of Mordovia: symbols, brands, images”; content analysis of foreign, federal and regional mass media, which chronologically reviewed the publications from 2014 to 2019, etc. Results and discussion. The most recognizable historical characters of Mordovia who resonate with the audience are F. Ushakov, S. Erzia, M. Devyataev. Among contemporaries whose images can present the region, there are the representatives of the politicals (V. D. Volkov, N. I. Merkushkin, P. N. Tultaev) and sports (O. Kaniskina, V. Borchin, S. Kirdyapkin). Conclusion. Using famous names that have a weak or implicit reference to the territory does not always lead to a positive emotional response (especially among visitors), which ultimately reduces the significance of this symbolic element for the republican image and strengthens its counter-narrativeness.

Introduction. Today, much attention is paid to the study and effectiveness of the tourism potential of the territory. Such territories are regions having a common ethnic identity. In Russia, these are Finno-Ugric federal entities. Geographically, they are separated from each other, but the development of joint tourism products is a doable task. The closest Finno-Ugric region to the Republic of Mordovia is the Republic of Mari El. The object of the study is the tourism potential of the Republic of Mordovia and the Republic of Mari El. The aim of the study is to compare the potential tourism potential of these two Finno-Ugric regions of Russia for the development of tourism. Materials and Methods. The study was conducted on the basis of research published by the academics of National Research Mordovia State University, within the framework of the priority research trach “Fundamental and applied research in the field of Finno-Ugric Studies”. The authors applied the following research methods: comparative geographical, statistical, cartographic, analysis and synthesis, generalization, expert estimates, observations, etc. Results and Discussion. The Republics have an interesting rich cultural and historical potential, on the basis of which tourist routes have been developed both in the capitals and countryside of the region. The tourism potential allows the development of cognitive, cultural, historical, sports, religious, event tourism, etc. The key task for its development in the regions and the effective promotion of the latter in the tourist markets is the creation of a branded or basic route that can serve as the basis for the formation of various tours. The development of such routes allows us to solve the strategic problem of including significant objects showing the region in inter-regional routes. Conclusion. Based on the study and comparative analysis of the tourism potential of the two Finno-Ugric regions, their opportunities for joint tourism activities are evaluated. One of the joint projects could be the development of an inter-regional tourist route that promotes the promotion of Finno-Ugric regions in the tourist market of Russia.

Introduction. Ethnosociological monitoring in a polyethnic region is conducted not only due to the need for an assessment of the public policy regulation in this field, but also due to the increase in the heuristic potential for preventing various kinds of social conflicts. The objective of the paper is to identify the dynamics of the development of interethnic relations in the Republic of Mordovia and the influence of various stratification processes on the development of ethnic relations, based on a comparative analysis of scientific studies. Materials and Methods. Regular sociological measurements carried out by the Research Institute of Regionology under Ogarev Mordovia State University and by the Scientific Center for Social and Economic Monitoring in 1990–2010 were used as the research materials. The interpretation of the results was carried out using the institutional, comparative and natural historical methods. Results. The main trends in the development of mass consciousness of the population of a polyethnic region in the context of various socio-political periods of the development of Russia have been revealed: from the ‘parade of sovereignties’ that followed the collapse of the Soviet Union to the reactualization of the ideology of a strong multiethnic Russian state. It has been emphasized that over the years, the main reasons exerting a negative impact on the nature of interethnic relations have mainly been not the interethnic conflicts, but the politically or economically marked factors (the economic crisis, inflation, appointment to managerial posts based on the ethnicity of a person, income inequality between representatives of different ethnic origins, etc.). Discussion and Conclusion. Although interethnic relations in the Republic of Mordovia has almost never achieved an increased level of conflict, the republic’s leadership was able to build an effective system for regulating them, which made it possible to minimize the degree of social and ethnic tension in society. The article may be useful to scientists and practitioners in the field of the development of interethnic relations and to all those interested in the issues of ethnosociology.

Introduction. The formation of the territorial image of the region popularize and present the territory in a positive light. The conditions available in the Republic of Mordovia for creating a successful image, especially historical-cultural and natural zones, allow creating a recognizable and attractive image of the Republic not only for the residents of Russia, but also abroad. primarily in the countries of the Finno-Ugric world, with which -cultural factor for interaction and cooperation. Building the image to a large extent is based on the historical aspect of the image background, which is inseparable from the rich Finno-Ugric culture and geographical diversity of the territory, while historical and cultural objects contribute to creating the attractive image of the region. History plays a fundamental role in creating a recognizable image, without it, it is impossible to build a meaningful view of the republic. Materials and Methods. The main research approaches were the historical-evolutionary method, the hermeneutic and axiological paradigms, the systems approach, and the elements of the theory of dependence on previous development. Among the applied methods the authors used a focus-group study, a case study, and an expert survey. The materials of the survey «Republic of Mordovia: problems and prospects for the formation of the image of the region» were employed. Results and Discussion. Mordovia has a long history, when Mordovian territorial units joined vast family of peoples living in Russia. The attainment of statehood by Mordovia in the 20th century was a significant step in preserving the distinctive culture and eventful memory of the region. Rich tourist and recreational potential, geographical location, natural resources, natural and water objects protected by the state, myths and legends, important historical events, preserved cultural and historical objects, folk traditions and customs have not lost their originality and can be a significant basis for the formation and promotion of a positive image of the Republic of Mordovia and can help to level existing negative stereotypes about the region as “territories of prisons and camps”, “provinces with a low standard of living, culture and education”, etc. Conclusion. The existing image background of Mordovia can become the basis of a unique positive image of the region, turning it into a well-known and popular brand. Adequate building of a regional image by each of the subjects of Russia, in turn, will help create a positive view of the state itself in the international arena.

New faunistic data for 30 species of Neuroptera and two species of Raphidioptera from the Republic of Mordovia (Russia) are reported. Eleven species of Neuroptera and one species of Raphidioptera are new for this region: Sisyra terminalis (Sisyridae), Megalomus hirtus, Wesmaelius nervosus, W. mortoni, Hemerobius marginatus, H. nitidulus, Sympherobius pygmaeus (Hemerobiidae), Nineta flava, Chrysopa gibeauxi, Ch. dasyptera, Cunctochrysa albolineata (Chrysopidae), and Xanothostigma xanthostigma (Raphidiidae). Neuroptera collected by fermenting bait traps in canopies of various, mainly deciduous trees at the height of 5–10 m are represented almost exclusively by all known Mordovian chrysopid species of the genera Nineta, Pseudomallada, Chrysoptropia and Chrysoperla. Adults of all these species are phytophagous or glycophagous. Of these, Pseudomallada prasinus, Nineta alpicola and Chrysotropia ciliata were most numerous (Table 1). All 22 specimens of Nothochrysa fulviceps were collected by fermenting bait traps on Quercus robur

Introduction. Education is of priority interest for the state. The future of Russia, its economic development, and the level of welfare in the society largely depend on its quality. Therefore, identification and study of the peculiarities of the legal regulation of the right to education in the regions of Russia is a relevant topic. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the legislation of the Republic of Mordovia on education, to identify whether consideration is given to socio-economic, national, geographical, ethnocultural, demographic and other features of the region when laws are made. Materials and Methods. The rules of the current legislation of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Mordovia on education were used as the materials for the study. Open data from municipal budgetary educational institutions of the Republic of Mordovia formed the information base of the research. The study employed the method of systemic and structural analysis, that of comparison, as well as the formal logical method. Results. The study has revealed the peculiarities of the region taken into account in the Republic of Mordovia in the process of rule-making in the field of education: the ethnic, economic, geographical, and socio-economic ones. It has been established that in the Republic of Mordovia additional guarantees are provided for the realization of the constitutional right to education: material support is provided to orphans and children left without parental care whose tuition is paid for from the federal or republican budget. Discussion and Conclusion. The research results made it possible to draw the conclusion that consideration of the peculiarities of Mordovia in regional legislation on education is at the appropriate level. Further research may be associated with identifying the regional features and introducing them into the legislation of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation. The data obtained will be useful to regional authorities and administrations of municipal districts when drafting regu­lations and drawing up programs for the development of education in the region.

Introduction. The issue of food security and the task of increasing Russia’s exports make it necessary to identify and monitor the threats to the economic security of agriculture in each region; therefore the topic is of particular relevance. The main goal of the study is to identify and analyze the threats to the economic security of the agricultural sector of the Republic of Mordovia and their sources. Materials and Methods. The agricultural sector of the Republic of Mordovia was considered as the object of the research. The study employed the methods of system analysis, economic statistics, and analytical, dynamic and graphical interpretation of information. Results. The authors have analyzed the development of the agricultural sector over the past ten years, identified and examined the threats to the economic security of the industry and their sources, presented a classification of the threats, substantiated the range of measures aimed at preventing and neutralizing the threats. It has been proved that the identified threats are not completely insurmountable but are systemic since they are formed at the macro level and require an identical comprehensive solution within the framework of the state regional policy. Discussion and Conclusion. It has been concluded that the present threats to the agriculture of the Republic of Mordovia resulted from the 1990s ignorant policies. Despite the measures taken, the situation still cannot be improved. Further research may be aimed at developing a methodology for analyzing threats to sectoral economic security at the regional level. The practical significance of the study lies in the possibility of applying the obtained information when establishing sectoral programs for the development of agriculture and the agro-industrial sector by the constituent entities of the Russian Federation facing similar threats.

Information is presented on 249 vespine species from 11 families in two regions of Mordovia (including Mordovia State Nature Reserve (MSNR)) and three districts of Nizhny Novgorod region (including Sarov) in Russia. Of these, 31 species are new to the Republic of Mordovia. Fauna of separate families of wasps in Mordovia State Nature Reserve is represented by 220 species: one species in Bethylidae, 31 in Chrysididae, two in Tiphiidae, two in Mutillidae, one in Scoliidae, 28 in Pompilidae, 37 in Vespidae, nine in Sphecidae, 108 in Crabronidae, and one in Trigonalyidae. The biodiversity of wasps in the reserve is very high. Of the 283 species of wasps in Mordovia, 220 (77.7%) are found within the reserve. Species characteristics such as geographic distribution and certain aspects of biology are also provided. There is an obvious extension of the ranges of three species, Priocnemis fastigiata, Sceliphron deforme, and Scolia hirta, to the north.

(1) Background: Seasonal dynamics of the abundance and species diversity of various insect groups is of great importance for understanding their life cycles; (2) Methods: In our study, Drosophilidae species and their seasonal changes in Mordovia State Nature Reserve were explored. We collected the flies by crown fermental traps in five types of forests (birch, aspen, linden, pine and oak) since May to October in 2019. (3) Results: A total of 4725 individuals belonging to 9 genera and 30 species of drosophilid flies were identified, among them 15 species in 3 genera are new to the Republic of Mordovia. Drosophila obscura and D. histrio were the most abundant species in traps, the other mass species are D. kuntzei, D. testacea, D. phalerata, S. rufifrons, D. bifasciata, A. semivirgo, and L. quinquemaculata. (4) Conclusions: We found three groups of mass species with significant correlation of seasonal dynamics, e.g., D.obscura and D. bifasciata; D. histrio, D. kuntzei, D. phalerata, and D. testacea, and, finally, A. semivirgo and S. rufifrons. Apparently, the similarity observed in the seasonal dynamics of these drosophilid species is influenced at a high degree by their food preferences and rearing sites.

(1) Background: Protected areas are “hotspots” of biodiversity in many countries. In such areas, ecological systems are preserved in their natural state, which allows them to protect animal populations. In several protected areas, the Coleoptera biodiversity is studied as an integral part of the ecological monitoring of the ecosystem state. This study was aimed to describe the Carabidae fauna in one of the largest protected areas of European Russia, namely National Park “Smolny”. (2) Methods: The study was conducted in April–September 2008, 2009, 2017–2021. A variety of ways was used to collect beetles (by hand, caught in light traps, pitfall traps, and others). Seasonal dynamics of the beetle abundance were studied in various biotopes. Coordinates were fixed for each observation. (3) Results: The dataset contains 1994 occurrences. In total, 32,464 specimens of Carabidae have been studied. The dataset contains information about 131 species of Carabidae beetles. In this study, we have not found two species (Carabus estreicheri and Calathus ambiguus), previously reported in the fauna of National Park “Smolny”. (4) Conclusions: The Carabidae diversity in the National Park “Smolny” is represented by 133 species from 10 subfamilies. Ten species (Carabus cancellatus, Harpalus laevipes, Carabus hortensis, Pterostichus niger, Poecilus versicolor, Pterostichus melanarius, Carabus glabratus, Carabus granulatus, Carabus arvensis baschkiricus, Pterostichus oblongopunctatus) constitute the majority of the Carabidae fauna. Seasonal dynamics are maximal in spring; the number of ground beetles decreases in biotopes by autumn.

Thirty species of Mordellidae were found in 2011–2018 in the Republic of Mordovia. Of them, Mordelli-stena hirtipes Schilsky, 1895, M. michalki Ermisch, 1956, M. rugipennis Schilsky, 1895, and Stenalia ascaniaenovae Lazorko, 1974 are recorded from Russia for the first time, and 21 species are new to the Republic of Mordovia. A preliminary checklist of Mordellidae of European Russia is compiled, comprising 73 species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All 2,145 species of Coleoptera from 88 families known to occur in Mordovia State Nature Reserve, Russia, are listed, along with their author(s) and year of description using the most recent classification framework. Adventive species for European Russia are indicated. There are 31 adventive species in the reserve, comprising 1.44% of the total beetle fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents an estimation of taxa included in the first volume of the Red Data Book of the Republic of Mordovia using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. Each taxon is provided by a category and all criteria appropriate for it within the region. The paper contains the estimation results of 177 taxa of vascular plants, mosses and algae from the first volume Red Data Book of the Republic of Mordovia (second edition). Of these, 137 are Threatened: 73 taxa are Critically Endangered (category CR), 41 taxa Endangered (category EN), 23 are Vulnerable (category VU), 31 taxa are Near Threatened (category NT). Nine taxa are in the category Data Deficient (DD), due to a lack of sufficient factual material needed for the evaluation. Another 59 taxa of the Red Data Book of the Republic of Mordovia (35 macromycetes and 24 lichens) were not evaluated in the present study, also due to the lack of sufficient data needed for an evaluation. Therefore, these taxa are temporarily in the category Not Evaluated (NE). But they could be assigned to one of the threatened categories when evaluated in the future, according to the Guidelines for Application of IUCN Red List Criteria. This paper is considered as a base for establishing the Red List of plant taxa of the Republic of Mordovia in the future.

Introduction. In a competitive environment, the image of a modern region is an instrument of “soft power”, capable of enhancing the effectiveness of the territory's development, provided it is associated with positive impressions. In this regard, analyzing perception of the symbolic component of a region's image by various target groups is of particular importance. The purpose of the study is to reveal the symbols, impressions, stereotypes most prevailing among the respondents that form the image of the Republic of Mordovia, which are the factors in developing the regional identity. Materials and Methods. The Republic of Mordovia was chosen for a case study: the region’s development is a vivid example of contradictoriness, the Republic being a leader in some indicators (it is among the safest regions of the country, it actively develops the innovative infrastructure, etc.) is a complete outsider in others (in the quality of life and average wages compared to other regions, etc.). Symbolic interactionism, emphasizing communication through symbols the meaning of which is set by the communicants, established the theoretical framework of the study. The method of focused interview provided the applied basis of the research. Discussions were held in 3 groups, formed according to the place of residence of the respondents: “foreigners”, “non-residents”, “residents”. Results. Unique data on the specific features of the perception of the image of the Republic of Mordovia, promoted by various agencies involved in image-making, have been obtained. The dependence of assessments and emotional attitudes to various symbols on the territorial affiliation of the recipients has been revealed. It has been noted that associations between a number of symbols (fox, octagonal rosette, red color, etc.) and Mordovia are unclear to non-residents, i. e., the mechanism of explanation, fixation and consolidation in the row of “region – symbol” is broken. Discussion and Conclusion. The authors have come to the conclusion that at present there are no images presenting unambiguously positive stable associations with the Republic of Mordovia, especially among “non-residents” and “foreigners”. The gap between the primary and secondary images is a rather worrying trend is, which can lead to dissonance, negative emotional response and negative assessments of the territory. The results of the study may be used to adjust the image-making policy of a region: to emphasize strengths and level weaknesses.

During field studies conducted in 2014 and 2017, Rhogogaster (Cytisogaster) chambersi was found in the Mordovia State Nature Reserve (Republic of Mordovia, Russia). Data on this record are presented here. The studied species has been found for the first time in Russia. We present data of the Russian location and some information on the species distribution.

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Genus Acer in the Republic of Mordovia is presented by four plant species: Acer campestre L., A. negundo L., A. platanoides L. and A. tataricum L. For A. campestre and A. tataricum we investigated accompanying flora composition and conducted its analysis; characteristics of populations were carried out. Seed reproduction of A. negundo was investigated in seminatural and anthropogenically disturbed habitats. Seed reproduction is of little importance for the maintenance of A. campestre populations on the north-eastern border of its range. This is offset by an active vegetative propagation by root offsprings. So, very few A. campestre individuals reach the generative age. A. tataricum is capable to grow in open as well as in woodland habitats in floodplains. Sufficient light and moderate moisture are the most significant environmental factors for A. tataricum populations. Depressing of tatarian maple is observed under conditions of shading in plant community with A. negundo dominance. Analysis of the accompanying floras of A. campestre and A. tataricum shows the coenotical confinement of these maple species. Seed reproduction of A. negundo was significantly higher in seminatural habitats with dominance of ash-leaved maple than it was in urban environment. Probably, this is a manifestation of indirect facilitation of the adult A. negundo tree canopy for the growth of its own seedlings by oppressing of other plants (e.g. A. tataricum seedlings). Thus, we showed relevance for investigations of interactions between closely related tree species.

The helminthofauna of Rana arvalis Nilsson, 1842 in Republic of Mordovia is studied. It is revealed 23 species of helminths: Trematoda – 18 and Nematoda – 5. Dominating by quantity of types mature and larvae the Trematoda are characterized by low indicators of contamination and treat rare parasites of this host. Background parasites with high degree of the infection are geonematodes Rhabdias bufonis and Oswaldocruzia filiformis. They meet at Rana arvalis in all territory of the region; are less often distributed Cosmocerca ornata and Haplometra cylindracea. Distinctions in separate populations of amphibians are defined by different structure of trematodes and depend from character of a biotope.

The records of helminth fauna from grass frogs Rana temporaria Linnaeus, 1768 of Republic of Mordovia are provided. 16 helminth types have been discovered: 1 – Monogenea, 11 – Trematoda, and 4 – Nematoda. Dominating in quantity of types the adult and larval trematodes are characterized by a lower infeсtion rate and beong to rare parasites of the specific host. Geonematodes Rhabdias bufonis (Schrank, 1788) and Oswaldocruzia filiformis (Goeze, 1782) are background parasites with a high infection rate found in all frogs; nematodes Cosmocerca ornata (Dujardin, 1845), trematodes Haplometra cylindracea Zeder, 1800 and Pleuro-genes claviger (Rudolphi, 1819) occur more rarely. The differences of single amphibian populations are determined based on various structures of trematodes and depend on biotopical conditions.