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May 21, 2026, 2:46 p.m.
Rare plant species discovered at the site of the Kakhovka reservoir
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Expedition to the bottom of the former Kakhovka Reservoir in May 2026. Photo: Ivan Moisienko
On the territory of the former Kakhovka Reservoir, scientists have discovered Red Book plants and dozens of rare bird species. The researchers emphasize that after Russian troops blew up the Kakhovka hydroelectric dam, a new unique ecosystem is rapidly forming on the site of the reservoir.
Ivan Moisienko, Doctor of Biological Sciences, Professor and Head of the Department of Botany at Kherson State University, told Vgoryadu about this on the air.
According to the scientist, six species of protected plants have already been recorded at the bottom of the former reservoir, including rye sedge, which is listed in the Red Book of Ukraine. The area is also home to dozens of bird species protected under international environmental conventions.
During the last expedition in May 2026, scientists noticed a significant increase in the number of plants. While after the destruction of the hydroelectric power plant, scientists recorded only 11 plant species, in the fall of 2023 there were already 69, and now there are more than 350.
The researchers note that the ecosystem at the site of the former reservoir continues to develop rapidly and become more complex. Mushrooms and lichens appear here, and the number of animals and plants is increasing. The spread of species whose seeds are carried by animals has become especially noticeable, which may indicate an increase in the number of fauna in this area.
Scientists emphasize that the territory of the former Kakhovka Reservoir has a high conservation value and can become a biosphere reserve.
Earlier, ecologists reported that a unique forest of young willow trees covering more than 65,000 hectares was formed at the bottom of the former Kakhovka reservoir. The tallest trees have already reached a height of five meters, demonstrating a record growth rate due to rich black soil and favorable climatic conditions.
On the night of June 6, Russians blew up the dam of the Kakhovka hydroelectric power plant. At least 34 people were killed and 28 others were injured. Almost 40 people are missing. People and pets were evacuated from 3 flooded areas.
Int'l correspondent Albina Karman reported on the evacuation of people from the flooded areas.
