Established to protect its unique ecosystem and biodiversity, the reserve is home to many plant and animal species, some of which are specific to the Mediterranean climate of the region.

The area of allocation reserve is a region of complex and lengthy geological processes related with the deposition of sedimentary rocks (mostly of limestone) and with the raising of the crust.

The climate in reserve is warm and dry, because the north side is protected from cold winds by The Main ridge with the height 1,200–1,400 m (3,900–4,600 ft) above sea level.

The reserve's waters are among the few areas on Crimea's southern coast that remain in their natural state, featuring typical seabed plant life.

The main forests consist of Downy Oak (Quercus pubescens), with some areas of Greek Juniper (Juniperus excelsa) and a few of Pinus nigra.