Flora
Armenia is home to over 3,500 species of plants, more than half of the 6,000 species found across the entire Transcaucasus region. While Europe has around 20,000 species and the entire North American continent hosts 40,000 species, with a total land area just under 30,000 square kilometers (roughly the size of Belgium), Armenia’s diversity and the close proximity of so many different types of flora is truly breathtaking.
Apricot and peach are of Armenian origin. The apricot was brought back to Greece by Alexander the Great's army, where the Romans later spread it throughout Southern Europe. Other fruits that grow in Armenia include apples, pears, cherries, plums, pomegranates, and an impressive variety of grapes. The Ararat Valley once supported a significant cotton industry before vineyards were cultivated.
Fauna
Armenia’s fauna is rich and diverse, comprising 76 species of mammals, 304 species of birds, 44 species of reptiles, 6 amphibians, 24 species of fish, and approximately 10,000 invertebrates. In the northern part of the country, one can find the Syrian brown bear, lynx, wild boars, deer, and reed cats. The mountain steppes are home to wolves, badgers, foxes, hares, mouflons, and bezoars. In the steppes and semi-desert regions, numerous rodents such as voles, ground squirrels, gerbils, mole rats, and jerboas are found. Among the reptiles are the Caucasian agama, the Greek tortoise, and the Armenian viper. Lake Sevan is inhabited by trout, whitefish, and other fish species.
Climate
Temperatures in Armenia largely depend on elevation, with wide seasonal variations caused by the mountain formations that block the moderating climatic influences of the Mediterranean and Black Seas. The Armenian Plateau experiences freezing temperatures during the winter, while summer sees a considerable rise in temperature.
The lower Araks River valley receives an average of 250 millimeters of precipitation annually, while the higher altitudes receive around 800 millimeters. Despite the harsh winters, the volcanic soil of the plateau is quite fertile. On average, Armenia receives 550 millimeters (21.6 inches) of precipitation per year, with the Ararat Valley being the driest area, receiving only 200-250 millimeters (7.9 to 10 inches).
The upper regions generally receive the most precipitation, especially during spring and early summer, with a secondary rainy period in October and November. The weather varies according to geographical location. For instance, while it might be hot and sunny in the Ararat Valley, Lake Sevan, which is just 60 kilometers away, can be cold and rainy, and the upper regions of Aragats may experience heavy snowfall.
In July, temperatures in the Ararat Valley can reach highs of 25-30°C, while the middle mountain regions experience summer temperatures around 18-20°C. The highest recorded temperature in Armenia is 42°C, which occurred in the Ararat Valley. In January, temperatures in the Ararat Valley typically drop to 5-7°C, with the lowest recorded temperature being -30°C. During the same period, the middle mountain regions experience lows of -8 to -12°C, with an absolute minimum of -46°C recorded in April. On average, the Ararat Valley experiences 250 frost-free days per year, while the middle mountain areas have between 150 and 200 frost-free days. The upper elevations, however, are almost permanently covered in frost, with no more than 30-50 frost-free days.
