On the basis of the obtained expeditionary data, the authors performed a comprehensive analysis of the ecosystems’ modern transformation in the studied area. In the course of the analysis, the authors found that at the present stage there have been quantitative changes (depletion of natural resources) in used landscapes, along with them, there are changes in qualitative characteristics (accumulation of resources). Now, against the background of vegetation and soil degradation, ways of their restoration are observed. New combinations of degraded and self-recovering ecosystems have emerged. Based on the analysis of the current state of different ecological systems and their relationships, the authors determined the possibilities of the dynamics of their combinations functioning by stages. This will make it possible to give a more reliable forecast of the ongoing processes in the ecosystems of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Aquaculture plays a great role in producing foodstuffs, sustaining inland capture fisheries and providing employment. The key to future development in pond aquaculture is diversification of production technology, intensity, and function connected to increasing the environmental value of pond areas. New production systems involve a combination of intensive and extensive pond culture, increasing productivity and improving nutrient utilisation and fish species diversification. The most important principle of these systems is the possibility to use the wastes from intensive aquaculture as the input for extensive, environment-friendly fish production. These systems were proven to be profitable and sustainable in tropical and subtropical areas. However, for temperate climatic conditions, such data are scarce. For this reason, we decided to discuss modifications that, in our opinion, can be applied in an extensive part of the integrated intensive-extensive system in temperate climatic conditions in order to increase the overall productivity of the pond aquaculture.