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TASBAQA: A Documentary on the Ustyurt Ecosystem — Oddly shaped rocks dot a dry, desert landscape.

TASBAQA: A Documentary on the Ustyurt EcosystemCEFR B1

31 Aug 2025

Adapted from Vlast.kz, Global Voices CC BY 3.0

Photo by GWANGJIN GO, Unsplash

AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.

TASBAQA is a thought-provoking documentary directed by Saxon Bosworth. It explores the life of the Central Asian tortoise living in the Ustyurt Plateau, which spans Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan. This unique ecosystem faces many threats from human activity, which significantly affects the tortoise population.

The film presents a day in the life of the tortoise, illustrating its lengthy hibernation and brief active period. The relationship between the tortoise and the Ustyurt ecosystem is over 1 million years old, showcasing the deep connection between species and their environments.

Notably, the film's soundtrack features traditional Kazakh music performed on the dombra, emphasizing the cultural and emotional connection to the region. As a result, the film aims to raise awareness for the tortoise and foster support for conservation efforts.

Through its narrative, TASBAQA hopes to give a voice to these creatures and inspire people to support the Tasbaqa Fund's initiatives for protecting the tortoise and its habitat.

Difficult words

  • documentaryA film that documents real life.
  • tortoiseA slow-moving reptile with a shell.
    tortoise population
  • ecosystemA community of living things and their environment.
  • conservationThe protection of the environment and wildlife.
    conservation efforts
  • awarenessKnowing about something important.
  • habitatThe natural home of a plant or animal.

Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.

Discussion questions

  • How can documentaries impact awareness of environmental issues?
  • What role do you think music plays in storytelling?
  • Why is it important to protect wildlife like the tortoise?

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