Key Biodiversity Areas

Sarıyar Reservoir (810)
Turkey, Europe

Site overview


KBA status: confirmed
Global KBA criteria: A1cD1a
Year of last assessment: 2004
National site name: Sarıyar Barajı
Central coordinates: Latitude: 40.0333, Longitude: 31.6167
System: freshwater, terrestrial
Elevation (m): 475 to 475
Area of KBA (km2): 317.2997
KBA classification: Global
Legacy site: Yes

Site details


Site description: This IBA includes a reservoir (max. depth 79 m), temporary wetlands at its inflows and cliff-faces to the north. It lies between Hamam Daðý (site 046) to the south and the Kapýkýrý mountains to the north. The reservoir is fed by three rivers and is used to produce hydroelectric power. Populus and Salix plantations border the seasonal wetlands.
Rationale for qualifying as KBA: This site qualifies as a Key Biodiversity Area of international significance that meets the thresholds for at least one criterion described in the Global Standard for the Identification of KBAs.
Additional biodiversity: This site is important for tree- and cliff-nesting waterbirds and raptors. Large numbers of Ciconia ciconia roost here on migration. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla (frequently observed, thought to breed in the surrounds).

Habitats


Land use: fisheries/aquaculture (50%) | urban/industrial/transport (100%) | water management (100%)
IUCN HabitatCoverage %Habitat detail
Savanna70
Wetlands(Inland)26
Forest4

Threats


Summary of threats to biodiversity at KBA: The felling of Populus stands threatens breeding species; a management plan could guarantee a rotation scheme whereby different sections of the stands are felled over successive years. The reservoir is heavily polluted, especially by untreated waste from Ankara (treatment facilities are being constructed). The effects of the pollution have not been studied.
Threat level 1Threat level 2Threat level 3Timing
Agriculture & aquacultureAnnual & perennial non-timber cropsAgro-industry farmingOngoing