BORIS KOSTIANTINOVICH FORTUNATOV (1886–1940?): BIOGRAPHY PAGES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32999/ksu2786-5118/2021-33-1Keywords:
Fortunatov, environmental protection, Askania-Nova, reserves, animal hybridization.Abstract
The purpose of the article. The article is devoted to the coverage of the main milestones in the life and work of a prominent zoologist, breeder, ecologist, conservationist, military and political figure, science fiction writer – Boris Konstantinovich Fortunatov (1886–1940?).
Results and scientific novelty of the research. On the basis of archival and literary sources, the years of B. Fortunatov's studies and his participation in the Socialist-Revolutionary Party (SR) are considered. His role in the revolutionary events of 1905 and 1917, the First World War and the Civil War is analyzed. It is noted that the first scientific publication of the 25-year-old Fortunatov was devoted to the synthesis of bread. It was found that in 1920, after arriving at the former estate of F. Falz-Fein – Askania-Nova – there were radical changes in the life of B. Fortunatov. From that time until the last days of his life he dealt with environmental protection issues. Thanks to his enthusiasm and persistence that the Askania-Nova Reserve was saved from looting and ruin. Heading first the scientific part of the reserve, and then as the head of the zoo B. Fortunatov conducted research on the revival of the bison population and aurochs; fought robbers; studied the origin of Askanian pheasants; saved the Askanian steppes from ruin. It is noted that in different years he headed the following reserves: Askania-Nova, Crimean, Primorsky, Caucasian; worked at the Moscow Zoo, and even designed a new zoo in this city. It is stated that at the territory of the special settlement he continued his scientific activities. Heading a research station for animal husbandry, the scientist observed the fauna and flora of Saryrki; explored the desert steppes of Central Kazakhstan; organized sheep farms in order to breed fat-tailed sheep; engaged in the improvement of cattle breeds; developed a method and program for new breeds of cattle; justified the need to create the Karkalinsky State Nature Park.
