Landscape‐hydrological phenomenon of the formation of floating islands on Lake Chebarkul (Davletovo) in the Ural River basin, Russia

Aim. To record factually the development of floating islands on Lake Chebarkul (Davletovo) as a landscape‐hydrological phenomenon in Ural River basin and Southern Trans‐Urals, to determine mechanisms formation identify specific features their morphostructure, intra‐annual movements long‐term dynamics. Materials Methods. Based images high (2003–2020) medium (1972–2020) spatial resolution, an analysis was made qualitative quantitative indicators reflecting intra‐ annual dynamics state (mats) coastal thickets macrophytes («splavina» or «labza» Russian). Results. It established that main source material for were at site confluence watercourses into lake (Yangelka Mogak Crrek), which periodically (during periods extreme spring floods) lose contact with shallow waters are carried lake. The variability states dynamism displacement islands, well tendency reduce number area macrophytes, caused, among other factors, by consequences anomalous summer flood 2013, revealed. Being unfixed state, drift along water considerable distances, reaching 10–15 km more during ice‐ free period year. driving force is wind, causes prevailing alongshore displacements islands: result collisions, they reduced size acquire rounded shape plan. Conclusion. Throughout historical period, around world have been perceived landscape deserves protection rational use. undoubted interest object geographical, hydrological, ecological biological research.