The article examines the impact of increased aridization of the territory due to an increase in air temperature,reduced precipitation,and the formation of moisture deficiency on grain yields in Northern Kazakhstan.The...The article examines the impact of increased aridization of the territory due to an increase in air temperature,reduced precipitation,and the formation of moisture deficiency on grain yields in Northern Kazakhstan.The most important result of the work is the revealed inverse relationship between grain yields and the temperature of the growing season:low-yielding years are associated with high temperatures and droughts,and high-yielding years are associated with lower temperatures and an optimal ratio of heat and moisture.The novelty of this study is the use of the method of hydrological and climatic calculations in identifying the nature of temperature variability and precipitation in the territory of Northern Kazakhstan for the modern period(1991–2020)compared with the base period(1961–1990).At all the studied meteorological stations,there is a tendency for the average annual temperature and the temperature of the growing season to increase:in the forest-steppe zone with an average warming intensity of 0.3–0.33℃ per decade;in the steppe zone by 0.2–0.43℃ per decade;and in the growing season by 0.2–0.7℃ per decade.The air temperature in the steppe zone is rising more intensively than in the forest-steppe zone,and precipitation in the forest-steppe zone has changed more than in the steppe zone.An increase in the average annual air temperature during the growing season(May–August),combined with a shortage of atmospheric moisture or a constant amount of it,led to an increase in the degree of aridization of the territory,an increase in the frequency of droughts in the steppe zone of Northern Kazakhstan.展开更多
The effects of human activities on the soil cover transformation in the eastern part of Kazakhstan were investigated during the period of 1956-2008.The results of the research for different soil types in Priaralye ind...The effects of human activities on the soil cover transformation in the eastern part of Kazakhstan were investigated during the period of 1956-2008.The results of the research for different soil types in Priaralye indicated that there was 643.3×103 hm2 solonchaks,accounting for 38.5 % of the total area（1670.5×10^3 hm^2） in 2008.Vast areas are occupied with dried lakeshore soil（311.1× 10^3 hm^2）,sandy soils（147.6×10^3 hm^2） and grey-brown desert soils and solonetzes（146.7×10^3 hm^2）.In 2001 the area of solonchak was 755×103 hm2 and decreased to 643.3×10^3 hm^2 in 2008,which due to the shrinkage of the Aral Sea,the areas of marsh and lakeshore solonchaks decreased with the increase of dried bottom of the Aral Sea.The level of soil cover transformation in the modern delta of the Syr-Darya River can be seen from the comparison of the results obtained from the different years in the study area.The area of solonchaks increased by 10×10^3 hm^2 and the area of alluvial-meadow salinizied soils increased by 17.9×10^3 hm^2 during the period of 1956-1969.It means that many non-salinizied soils were transformed into salinizied ones.Striking changes occurred in the structure of soil cover as a result of aridization.So,the researches in1969 significantly determined the areas of hydromorphic soils subjected to desertification（it was not fixed on the map before 1956）.Later,these soils were transformed into takyr-like soils.The area of takyr-like soils increased almost by 3 times for 34 years（from 1956 to 1990）.The long-term soil researches on soil cover transformation in Priaralye have shown that the tendencies of negative processes（salinization and deflation） are being kept and lead to further soil and eco-environment degradation in the region.展开更多
An increase in the extremality of natural processes is a consequence of warming, aridization, and desertification. The authors consider the processes of warming, aridization, and desertification to be the parts of a s...An increase in the extremality of natural processes is a consequence of warming, aridization, and desertification. The authors consider the processes of warming, aridization, and desertification to be the parts of a single system and major destabilizing factors of ecological balance. Destabilization is expressed in the growth of natural processes extremality. Ecosystems of Transbaikalia were once characterized by a different natural contrast and amplitude. Warming, aridization and desertification have led to an increase of environmental regimes tensions. This is demonstrated quantitatively by the root-mean-square difference of atmospheric and soil parameters. Quantitative indicators of aridization are estimated using Walter-Gossen climate charts. Permafrost zone response information to the long-term warming is provided as well.展开更多
Northern China is a prominent “hotspot” for land–atmosphere interactions, with substantial gradients in both moisture and thermal conditions. Previous studies have identified a link between land–atmosphere couplin...Northern China is a prominent “hotspot” for land–atmosphere interactions, with substantial gradients in both moisture and thermal conditions. Previous studies have identified a link between land–atmosphere coupling and the individual roles of each factor, but the synergistic effect of the two factors remains unclear. This study considers the covariation of evapotranspiration and precipitation to assess evapotranspiration–precipitation(ET–P) coupling across northern China,exploring its spatial variations and their linkage to water and heat factors. Our findings reveal a transition from strongly positive coupling in the northwest to weakly negative coupling in the southeast, peaking in spring. These spatial variations are attributable to water(soil moisture) and heat(air temperature), which explain 39% and 25% of the variability,respectively. The aridity index(AI), a water–heat synergy factor, is the dominant factor, explaining 66% of the spatial variation in ET–P coupling. As the AI increases, ET–P coupling shifts from strongly positive to weakly negative, with an AI around 0.7. This shift is determined by a shift in the evapotranspiration–lifting condensation level(LCL) coupling under an AI change. Regions with an AI below 0.7 experience water-limited evapotranspiration, where increased soil moisture enhances evapotranspiration, reduces sensible heat(H), and lowers the LCL, resulting in a negative ET–LCL coupling.Conversely, regions with an AI above 0.7 experience energy-limited evapotranspiration, where the positive ET–LCL coupling reflects a positive H–LCL coupling or a positive impact of the LCL on evapotranspiration. This analysis advances our understanding of the intricate influences of multifactor surface interactions on the spatial variations of land–atmosphere coupling.展开更多
In the context of global warming,it is anticipated that both the intensity and the frequency of future global extreme high precipitation(EHP)and extreme high temperature(EHT)events will increase.To evaluate the future...In the context of global warming,it is anticipated that both the intensity and the frequency of future global extreme high precipitation(EHP)and extreme high temperature(EHT)events will increase.To evaluate the future extreme climate changes in the Asian arid region and Tibetan Plateau,this study applied the NASA Earth Exchange Global Daily Downscaled Projections(NEX-GDDP-CMIP6)to assess the changes in EHP(Rx5d and R95pTOT)and EHT(TX90p and TXx)under different emission scenarios in the 21st century.Findings suggest that both the frequency and the intensity of the extreme indices will increase,exhibiting accelerated growth under higher emission scenarios,particularly under the SSP5-8.5 emission scenario.It is suggested that the growth of EHT and EHP in the early subperiod of the 21st century(2026-2045)will be relatively moderate,with small differences between different emission scenarios.However,by the middle subperiod of the 21st century(2041-2060),the differences between different emission scenarios will become larger than the 2035s and the growth will become more intense.In western central Asia,TX90p,TXx,Rx5d,and R95pTOT increase by 9.7%-14.2%(13.3%-24.7%),1.3℃-1.7℃(1.6℃-2.7℃),6.5%-8.9%(8.2%-8.8%),and 18.1%-27.0%(25.6%-30.0%)by the early(middle)subperiod;in eastern central Asia,TX90p,TXx,Rx5d,and R95pTOT increase 8.1%-12.0%(11.3%-21.1%),1.4℃-1.8℃(1.9℃-2.9℃),7.4%-9.7%(10.4%-13.8%),and 20.2%-29.3%(32.0%-40.8%)by the early(middle)subperiod;and over the Tibetan Plateau,TX90p,TXx,Rx5d,and R95pTOT increase 12.5%-17.4%(17.0%-31.0%),1.2℃-1.5℃(1.6℃-2.5℃),7.2%-10.0%(9.9%-15.0%),and 26.6%-33.1%(36.1%-55.3%)by the early(middle)subperiod.展开更多
Soil moisture(SM)is a critical variable in terrestrial ecosystems,especially in arid and semi-arid areas where water sources are limited.Despite its importance,understanding the spatiotemporal variations and influenci...Soil moisture(SM)is a critical variable in terrestrial ecosystems,especially in arid and semi-arid areas where water sources are limited.Despite its importance,understanding the spatiotemporal variations and influencing factors of SM in these areas remains insufficient.This study investigated the spatiotemporal variations and influencing factors of SM in arid and semi-arid areas of China by utilizing the extended triple collation(ETC),Mann-Kendall test,Theil-Sen estimator,ridge regression analysis,and other relevant methods.The following findings were obtained:(1)at the pixel scale,the long-term monthly SM data from the European Space Agency Climate Change Initiative(ESA CCI)exhibited the highest correlation coefficient of 0.794 and the lowest root mean square error(RMSE)of 0.014 m^(3)/m^(3);(2)from 2000 to 2022,the study area experienced significant increase in annual average SM,with a rate of 0.408×10^(-3)m^(3)/(m^(3)•a).Moreover,higher altitudes showed a notable upward trend,with SM increasing rates at 0.210×10^(-3)m^(3)/(m^(3)•a)between 1000 and 2000 m,0.530×10^(-3)m^(3)/(m^(3)•a)between 2000 and 4000 m,and 0.760×10^(-3)m^(3)/(m^(3)•a)at altitudes above 4000 m;(3)land surface temperature(LST),root zone soil moisture(RSM)(10-40 cm depth),and normalized difference vegetation index(NDVI)were identified as the primary factors influencing annual average SM,which accounted for 34.37%,24.16%,and 22.64%relative contributions,respectively;and(4)absolute contribution of LST was more significant in subareas at higher altitudes,with average absolute contributions of 0.800×10^(-3)m^(3)/(m^(3)•a)between 2000 and 4000 m and 0.500×10^(-2) m^(3)/(m^(3)•a)above 4000 m.This study reveals the spatiotemporal variations and main influencing factors of SM in Chinese arid and semi-arid areas,highlighting the more pronounced absolute contribution of LST to SM in high-altitude areas,providing valuable insights for ecological research and water resource management in these areas.展开更多
Approximately 3.44 billion tons of copper mine tailings(MT)were produced globally in 2018 with an increase of 45%from 2010.Significant efforts are being made to manage these tailings through storage facilities,recycli...Approximately 3.44 billion tons of copper mine tailings(MT)were produced globally in 2018 with an increase of 45%from 2010.Significant efforts are being made to manage these tailings through storage facilities,recycling,and reuse in different industries.Currently,a large portion of tailings are managed through the tailing storage facilities(TSF)where these tailings undergo hydro-thermal-mechanical stresses with seasonal cycles which are not comprehensively understood.This study presents an investigative study to evaluate the performance of control and cement-stabilized copper MT under the influence of seasonal cycles,freeze-thaw(F-T)and wet-dry(W-D)conditions,representing the seasonal variability in the cold and arid regions.The control and cement-stabilized MT samples were subjected to a maximum of 12 F-T and 12 W-D cycles and corresponding micro-and-macro behavior was investigated through scanning electron microscope(SEM),volumetric strain(εvT,wet density(r),moisture content loss,and unconfined compressive strength(UCS)tests.The results indicated the vulnerability of Copper MT to 67%and 75%strength loss reaching residual states with 12 F-T and 8 W-D cycles,respectively.Whereas the stabilized MT retained 39%-55%and 16%-34%strength with F-T and W-D cycles,demonstrating increased durability.This research highlights the impact of seasonal cycles and corresponding strength-deformation characteristics of control and stabilized Copper MT in cold and arid regions.展开更多
In most agricultural areas in the semi-arid region of the southern United States, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production is a primary economic activity. This region is drought-prone and projected to have a drier clim...In most agricultural areas in the semi-arid region of the southern United States, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production is a primary economic activity. This region is drought-prone and projected to have a drier climate in the future. Predicting the yield loss due to an anticipated drought is crucial for wheat growers. A reliable way for predicting the drought-induced yield loss is to use a plant physiology-based drought index, such as Agricultural Reference Index for Drought (ARID). Since different wheat cultivars exhibit varying levels of sensitivity to water stress, the impact of drought could be different on the cultivars belonging to different drought sensitivity groups. The objective of this study was to develop the cultivar drought sensitivity (CDS) group-specific, ARID-based models for predicting the drought-induced yield loss of winter wheat in the Llano Estacado region in the southern United States by accounting for the phenological phase-specific sensitivity to drought. For the study, the historical (1947-2021) winter wheat grain yield and daily weather data of two locations in the region (Bushland, TX and Clovis, NM) were used. The logical values of the drought sensitivity parameters of the yield models, especially for the moderately-sensitive and highly-sensitive CDS groups, indicated that the yield models reflected the phenomenon of water stress decreasing the winter wheat yields in this region satisfactorily. The reasonable values of the Nash-Sutcliffe Index (0.65 and 0.72), the Willmott Index (0.88 and 0.92), and the percentage error (23 and 22) for the moderately-sensitive and highly-sensitive CDS groups, respectively, indicated that the yield models for these groups performed reasonably well. These models could be useful for predicting the drought-induced yield losses and scheduling irrigation allocation based on the phenological phase-specific drought sensitivity as influenced by cultivar genotype.展开更多
The author affiliation and the funding information in the Acknowledgement section of the online version of the original article was revised.One affiliation(the 8th affiliation)of the first author is added.The Acknowle...The author affiliation and the funding information in the Acknowledgement section of the online version of the original article was revised.One affiliation(the 8th affiliation)of the first author is added.The Acknowledgement section of the original article has been revised to:Acknowledgments:This research was funded by the National University of Mongolia under grant agreement P2023(grant number P2023-4578)and supported by the Chey Institute for Advanced Studies“International Scholarship Exchange Fellowship for the academic year of 2024-2025”,Republic of Korea,and the National University of Mongolia.We would like to acknowledge the National University of Mongolia and Soumik Das from the Center for the Study of Regional Development,Jawaharlal Nehru University,New Delhi-110067,for his valuable assistance in preparing the geological maps.展开更多
Drought is a natural disaster that significantly impacts the Earth's ecological environment,especially in arid and semi-arid areas.However,drought at a large watershed scale,which plays an important role in sustai...Drought is a natural disaster that significantly impacts the Earth's ecological environment,especially in arid and semi-arid areas.However,drought at a large watershed scale,which plays an important role in sustainable environmental development,has received limited attention.In this study,we analyzed the spatial and temporal variations in drought in the Yellow River Basin,China from 2002 to 2022 and its driving factors using a vegetation health index(VHI).Results showed that average VHI in the Yellow River Basin from 2002 to 2022 was 0.581,with the most severe drought occurring in summer and autumn.The basin showed a slow decreasing trend in drought during the study period.Regarding spatial distribution of monthly drought frequency and trend of VHI,the mean of the frequency was 13.00%,and 78.00%had a drought frequency of 10.00%–20.00%,with moderate drought generally prevailing.Regarding land use types,forest land,grassland,agricultural land,construction land,water body,and wasteland showed a descending order for the annual average VHI.VHI of each land use type was the lowest in summer and autumn,with pronounced seasonal characteristics.The uneven distribution of drought in the Yellow River Basin was primarily influenced by annual precipitation,solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence,and relative humidity.VHI effectively quantified drought conditions at a regional scale and proved to be highly applicable in the Yellow River Basin.The results clarify the effectiveness of VHI for drought monitoring in the Yellow River Basin and can provide a reference for drought monitoring across the basin.展开更多
How ecological and evolutionary factors affect small mammal diversity in arid regions remains largely unknown.Here,we combined the largest phylogeny and occurrence dataset of Gerbillinae desert rodents to explore the ...How ecological and evolutionary factors affect small mammal diversity in arid regions remains largely unknown.Here,we combined the largest phylogeny and occurrence dataset of Gerbillinae desert rodents to explore the underlying factors shaping present-day distribution patterns.In particular,we analyzed the relative contributions of ecological and evolutionary factors on their species diversity using a variety of models.Additionally,we inferred the ancestral range and possible dispersal scenarios and estimated the diversification rate of Gerbillinae.We found that Gerbillinae likely originated in the Horn of Africa in the Middle Miocene and then dispersed and diversified across arid regions in northern and southern Africa and western and central Asia,forming their current distribution pattern.Multiple ecological and evolutionary factors jointly determine the spatial pattern of Gerbillinae diversity,but evolutionary factors(evolutionary time and speciation rate)and habitat filtering were the most important in explaining the spatial variation in species richness.Our study enhances the understanding of the diversity patterns of small mammals in arid regions and highlights the importance of including evolutionary factors when interpreting the mechanisms underlying large-scale species diversity patterns.展开更多
The response of lake environments in arid Central Asia to climate change during the Late Holocene over the centennial to millennial timescales remains contentious.The reason that primarily paleoenvironmental proxies d...The response of lake environments in arid Central Asia to climate change during the Late Holocene over the centennial to millennial timescales remains contentious.The reason that primarily paleoenvironmental proxies diverse and the scarcity of accurate quantitative reconstruction records.In this study,we employed diatoms and pollen records from lacustrine sediment in the Aibi Lake of Southwest Junggar Basin to quantitatively reconstruct salinity and watershed precipitation amounts while exploring the associated forcing mechanisms.The results indicate that Aibi Lake salinity varied between 2 and 47 g/L during the Late Holocene Period,indicating a generally brackish environment,and corresponding to prevailing Tryblionella granulata diatom in the lake basin.Westerly-dominated annual precipitation varied between 250 and 320 mm during the Late Holocene Period in the basin,exhibiting a generally semi-arid environment and prevailing desert steppe vegetation.The Aibi Lake has a low salinity of average value of~15 g/L and exhibits elevated precipitation(average value of~280 mm)during the periods of the 2900-1990,1570-1140,and 590-120 cal yr BP.The reconstructed precipitation and salinity exhibit a periodicity of~200 years,which is consistent with the cycle of phase changes of the North Atlantic oscillation(NAO)and total solar irradiance(TSI).This correlation suggests that variations in NOA and TSI significantly influence the precipitation and salinity changes in Central Asia over centennial to millennial timescales.展开更多
The Leymus chinensis grassland is one of themost widely distributed associations in the warmtemperate grassland and due to overgrazing in recent years,it has experienced varying degrees of degradation.Vegetative regen...The Leymus chinensis grassland is one of themost widely distributed associations in the warmtemperate grassland and due to overgrazing in recent years,it has experienced varying degrees of degradation.Vegetative regeneration via bud banks serves as the primaryway of vegetation reproduction in the L.chinensis grassland ecosystem.However,the role of the bud bank in the vegetation regeneration of grazing grassland remains unclear.Based on the relationship between the under-ground bud bank and above-ground vegetation of L.chinensis grassland under different grazing stages,this study aimed to explore whether the grazing grassland could self-recover through the existing bud bank.The findings revealed that the bud density initially increased and then decreased with increasing grazing intensity,indicating that appropriate grazing promoted vegetation renewal.Moreover,grazing significantly influenced the composition of the bud bank:during the early grazing stage,the rhizome buds accounted for the main part,and tiller buds dominated during the mid-stage grazing;while during the late-stage grazing,root-sprouting buds prevailed.The meristem restriction index for light,moderate,and heavy grazing grasslands was close to one;conversely,overgrazing and extreme overgrazing grasslands exhibited the highermeristemrestriction index(2.00,3.19),suggesting that plant regeneration was constrained by bud banks under light-grazing conditions where regenerate rates failed to meet above-ground modular’s recovery requirements following overgrazing and extreme overgrazing events.Consequently,moderate grazing grasslands could achieve natural community recovery by continuously adjusting their vegetative regeneration strategies.Understanding the role of bud banks in vegetative regeneration in grazing grassland will not only supply theoretical support for the ecological succession process of degraded grassland but also provide practical experience for the sustainable management of the L.chinensis grassland ecosystem.展开更多
Oasis soils in Tunisia are characterized by low soil organic carbon(SOC)stocks,primarily due to their coarse texture and intensive irrigation practices.In the Gataaya Oasis,soils receive 3.000 to 4.000 L/m^(2) annuall...Oasis soils in Tunisia are characterized by low soil organic carbon(SOC)stocks,primarily due to their coarse texture and intensive irrigation practices.In the Gataaya Oasis,soils receive 3.000 to 4.000 L/m^(2) annually through submersion irrigation,leading to a rapid decline in SOC stocks.Despite their sandy texture,which promotes good water infiltration,these soils are enriched with clay,dissolved materials,and fertilizers in deeper horizons.This study aimed to assess SOC content in the Gataaya Oasis soils,investigate the transport of labile carbon in drainage water,and clarify the destiny of this transported carbon.Soil samples were collected systematically at three depths(0–10,10–20,and 20–30 cm),focusing on the top 30 cm depth,which is most affected by amendments.Two sampling points(P1 and P2)were selected,i.e.,P1 profile near the trunk of date palms(with manure input)and P2 profile between two adjacent date palms(without manure input).Water samples were collected from drainage systems within the oasis(W1,W2,and W3)and outside the oasis(W4).A laboratory experiment simulating manure application and irrigation was conducted to complement field observations.Physical-chemical analyses revealed a significant decrease in SOC stocks with soil depths.In P1 profile,SOC stocks declined from 17.71 t/hm^(2) at the 0–10 cm depth to 7.80 t/hm^(2) at the 20–30 cm depth.In P2 profile,SOC stocks were lower,decreasing from 6.73 t/hm^(2) at the 0–10 cm depth to 3.57 t/hm^(2) at the 20–30 cm depth.Labile carbon content in drainage water increased outside the oasis,with chemical oxygen demand(COD)values rising from 73 mg/L in W1 water sample to 290 mg/L in W4 water sample,indicating cumulative leaching effects from surrounding oases.The laboratory experiment confirmed field observations,showing a decline in soil organic matter(SOM)content from 3.27%to 2.62%after 12 irrigations,highlighting the vulnerability of SOC stocks to intensive irrigation.This study underscores the low SOC stocks in the Gataaya Oasis soils and their rapid depletion under successive irrigations.The findings provide insights into the dynamics of labile carbon transport and its contribution to regional carbon cycling,offering valuable information for sustainable soil management and ecological protection in arid ecosystems.展开更多
文摘The article examines the impact of increased aridization of the territory due to an increase in air temperature,reduced precipitation,and the formation of moisture deficiency on grain yields in Northern Kazakhstan.The most important result of the work is the revealed inverse relationship between grain yields and the temperature of the growing season:low-yielding years are associated with high temperatures and droughts,and high-yielding years are associated with lower temperatures and an optimal ratio of heat and moisture.The novelty of this study is the use of the method of hydrological and climatic calculations in identifying the nature of temperature variability and precipitation in the territory of Northern Kazakhstan for the modern period(1991–2020)compared with the base period(1961–1990).At all the studied meteorological stations,there is a tendency for the average annual temperature and the temperature of the growing season to increase:in the forest-steppe zone with an average warming intensity of 0.3–0.33℃ per decade;in the steppe zone by 0.2–0.43℃ per decade;and in the growing season by 0.2–0.7℃ per decade.The air temperature in the steppe zone is rising more intensively than in the forest-steppe zone,and precipitation in the forest-steppe zone has changed more than in the steppe zone.An increase in the average annual air temperature during the growing season(May–August),combined with a shortage of atmospheric moisture or a constant amount of it,led to an increase in the degree of aridization of the territory,an increase in the frequency of droughts in the steppe zone of Northern Kazakhstan.
基金supported by the Department of Ecology in Kazakh Research Institute of Soil Science and Agrochemistry named after Uspanov,Almaty,Kazakhstan
文摘The effects of human activities on the soil cover transformation in the eastern part of Kazakhstan were investigated during the period of 1956-2008.The results of the research for different soil types in Priaralye indicated that there was 643.3×103 hm2 solonchaks,accounting for 38.5 % of the total area（1670.5×10^3 hm^2） in 2008.Vast areas are occupied with dried lakeshore soil（311.1× 10^3 hm^2）,sandy soils（147.6×10^3 hm^2） and grey-brown desert soils and solonetzes（146.7×10^3 hm^2）.In 2001 the area of solonchak was 755×103 hm2 and decreased to 643.3×10^3 hm^2 in 2008,which due to the shrinkage of the Aral Sea,the areas of marsh and lakeshore solonchaks decreased with the increase of dried bottom of the Aral Sea.The level of soil cover transformation in the modern delta of the Syr-Darya River can be seen from the comparison of the results obtained from the different years in the study area.The area of solonchaks increased by 10×10^3 hm^2 and the area of alluvial-meadow salinizied soils increased by 17.9×10^3 hm^2 during the period of 1956-1969.It means that many non-salinizied soils were transformed into salinizied ones.Striking changes occurred in the structure of soil cover as a result of aridization.So,the researches in1969 significantly determined the areas of hydromorphic soils subjected to desertification（it was not fixed on the map before 1956）.Later,these soils were transformed into takyr-like soils.The area of takyr-like soils increased almost by 3 times for 34 years（from 1956 to 1990）.The long-term soil researches on soil cover transformation in Priaralye have shown that the tendencies of negative processes（salinization and deflation） are being kept and lead to further soil and eco-environment degradation in the region.
基金partially supported by the Russian Geographical Society(grant No.13-05-41378)
文摘An increase in the extremality of natural processes is a consequence of warming, aridization, and desertification. The authors consider the processes of warming, aridization, and desertification to be the parts of a single system and major destabilizing factors of ecological balance. Destabilization is expressed in the growth of natural processes extremality. Ecosystems of Transbaikalia were once characterized by a different natural contrast and amplitude. Warming, aridization and desertification have led to an increase of environmental regimes tensions. This is demonstrated quantitatively by the root-mean-square difference of atmospheric and soil parameters. Quantitative indicators of aridization are estimated using Walter-Gossen climate charts. Permafrost zone response information to the long-term warming is provided as well.
基金jointly supported by the National Science Foundation of China (Grant No.42230611)the Meteorological Joint Fund (Grant No.U2142208)+2 种基金the Second Tibetan Plateau Scientific Expedition and Research (STEP) program (grant no.2019QZKK0102)the National Science Foundation of China (Grant No.42005071)the Gansu Province Key Talent Project (Grant No.2023RCXM37)。
文摘Northern China is a prominent “hotspot” for land–atmosphere interactions, with substantial gradients in both moisture and thermal conditions. Previous studies have identified a link between land–atmosphere coupling and the individual roles of each factor, but the synergistic effect of the two factors remains unclear. This study considers the covariation of evapotranspiration and precipitation to assess evapotranspiration–precipitation(ET–P) coupling across northern China,exploring its spatial variations and their linkage to water and heat factors. Our findings reveal a transition from strongly positive coupling in the northwest to weakly negative coupling in the southeast, peaking in spring. These spatial variations are attributable to water(soil moisture) and heat(air temperature), which explain 39% and 25% of the variability,respectively. The aridity index(AI), a water–heat synergy factor, is the dominant factor, explaining 66% of the spatial variation in ET–P coupling. As the AI increases, ET–P coupling shifts from strongly positive to weakly negative, with an AI around 0.7. This shift is determined by a shift in the evapotranspiration–lifting condensation level(LCL) coupling under an AI change. Regions with an AI below 0.7 experience water-limited evapotranspiration, where increased soil moisture enhances evapotranspiration, reduces sensible heat(H), and lowers the LCL, resulting in a negative ET–LCL coupling.Conversely, regions with an AI above 0.7 experience energy-limited evapotranspiration, where the positive ET–LCL coupling reflects a positive H–LCL coupling or a positive impact of the LCL on evapotranspiration. This analysis advances our understanding of the intricate influences of multifactor surface interactions on the spatial variations of land–atmosphere coupling.
基金supported by the Second Tibetan Plateau Scientific Expedition and Research Program[grant number 2019QZKK0101]。
文摘In the context of global warming,it is anticipated that both the intensity and the frequency of future global extreme high precipitation(EHP)and extreme high temperature(EHT)events will increase.To evaluate the future extreme climate changes in the Asian arid region and Tibetan Plateau,this study applied the NASA Earth Exchange Global Daily Downscaled Projections(NEX-GDDP-CMIP6)to assess the changes in EHP(Rx5d and R95pTOT)and EHT(TX90p and TXx)under different emission scenarios in the 21st century.Findings suggest that both the frequency and the intensity of the extreme indices will increase,exhibiting accelerated growth under higher emission scenarios,particularly under the SSP5-8.5 emission scenario.It is suggested that the growth of EHT and EHP in the early subperiod of the 21st century(2026-2045)will be relatively moderate,with small differences between different emission scenarios.However,by the middle subperiod of the 21st century(2041-2060),the differences between different emission scenarios will become larger than the 2035s and the growth will become more intense.In western central Asia,TX90p,TXx,Rx5d,and R95pTOT increase by 9.7%-14.2%(13.3%-24.7%),1.3℃-1.7℃(1.6℃-2.7℃),6.5%-8.9%(8.2%-8.8%),and 18.1%-27.0%(25.6%-30.0%)by the early(middle)subperiod;in eastern central Asia,TX90p,TXx,Rx5d,and R95pTOT increase 8.1%-12.0%(11.3%-21.1%),1.4℃-1.8℃(1.9℃-2.9℃),7.4%-9.7%(10.4%-13.8%),and 20.2%-29.3%(32.0%-40.8%)by the early(middle)subperiod;and over the Tibetan Plateau,TX90p,TXx,Rx5d,and R95pTOT increase 12.5%-17.4%(17.0%-31.0%),1.2℃-1.5℃(1.6℃-2.5℃),7.2%-10.0%(9.9%-15.0%),and 26.6%-33.1%(36.1%-55.3%)by the early(middle)subperiod.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Henan Province(252300421290)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(41771438)+1 种基金the Program for Innovative Research Team(in Science and Technology)of Henan University(22IRTSTHN010)the Postgraduate Education Reform and Quality Improvement Project of Henan Province(HNYJS2020JD14).
文摘Soil moisture(SM)is a critical variable in terrestrial ecosystems,especially in arid and semi-arid areas where water sources are limited.Despite its importance,understanding the spatiotemporal variations and influencing factors of SM in these areas remains insufficient.This study investigated the spatiotemporal variations and influencing factors of SM in arid and semi-arid areas of China by utilizing the extended triple collation(ETC),Mann-Kendall test,Theil-Sen estimator,ridge regression analysis,and other relevant methods.The following findings were obtained:(1)at the pixel scale,the long-term monthly SM data from the European Space Agency Climate Change Initiative(ESA CCI)exhibited the highest correlation coefficient of 0.794 and the lowest root mean square error(RMSE)of 0.014 m^(3)/m^(3);(2)from 2000 to 2022,the study area experienced significant increase in annual average SM,with a rate of 0.408×10^(-3)m^(3)/(m^(3)•a).Moreover,higher altitudes showed a notable upward trend,with SM increasing rates at 0.210×10^(-3)m^(3)/(m^(3)•a)between 1000 and 2000 m,0.530×10^(-3)m^(3)/(m^(3)•a)between 2000 and 4000 m,and 0.760×10^(-3)m^(3)/(m^(3)•a)at altitudes above 4000 m;(3)land surface temperature(LST),root zone soil moisture(RSM)(10-40 cm depth),and normalized difference vegetation index(NDVI)were identified as the primary factors influencing annual average SM,which accounted for 34.37%,24.16%,and 22.64%relative contributions,respectively;and(4)absolute contribution of LST was more significant in subareas at higher altitudes,with average absolute contributions of 0.800×10^(-3)m^(3)/(m^(3)•a)between 2000 and 4000 m and 0.500×10^(-2) m^(3)/(m^(3)•a)above 4000 m.This study reveals the spatiotemporal variations and main influencing factors of SM in Chinese arid and semi-arid areas,highlighting the more pronounced absolute contribution of LST to SM in high-altitude areas,providing valuable insights for ecological research and water resource management in these areas.
基金the W.M.Keck Center for Nano-Scale Imaging in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Arizona(Grant No.RRID:SCR_022884),with funding from the W.M.Keck Foundation Grant.
文摘Approximately 3.44 billion tons of copper mine tailings(MT)were produced globally in 2018 with an increase of 45%from 2010.Significant efforts are being made to manage these tailings through storage facilities,recycling,and reuse in different industries.Currently,a large portion of tailings are managed through the tailing storage facilities(TSF)where these tailings undergo hydro-thermal-mechanical stresses with seasonal cycles which are not comprehensively understood.This study presents an investigative study to evaluate the performance of control and cement-stabilized copper MT under the influence of seasonal cycles,freeze-thaw(F-T)and wet-dry(W-D)conditions,representing the seasonal variability in the cold and arid regions.The control and cement-stabilized MT samples were subjected to a maximum of 12 F-T and 12 W-D cycles and corresponding micro-and-macro behavior was investigated through scanning electron microscope(SEM),volumetric strain(εvT,wet density(r),moisture content loss,and unconfined compressive strength(UCS)tests.The results indicated the vulnerability of Copper MT to 67%and 75%strength loss reaching residual states with 12 F-T and 8 W-D cycles,respectively.Whereas the stabilized MT retained 39%-55%and 16%-34%strength with F-T and W-D cycles,demonstrating increased durability.This research highlights the impact of seasonal cycles and corresponding strength-deformation characteristics of control and stabilized Copper MT in cold and arid regions.
文摘In most agricultural areas in the semi-arid region of the southern United States, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production is a primary economic activity. This region is drought-prone and projected to have a drier climate in the future. Predicting the yield loss due to an anticipated drought is crucial for wheat growers. A reliable way for predicting the drought-induced yield loss is to use a plant physiology-based drought index, such as Agricultural Reference Index for Drought (ARID). Since different wheat cultivars exhibit varying levels of sensitivity to water stress, the impact of drought could be different on the cultivars belonging to different drought sensitivity groups. The objective of this study was to develop the cultivar drought sensitivity (CDS) group-specific, ARID-based models for predicting the drought-induced yield loss of winter wheat in the Llano Estacado region in the southern United States by accounting for the phenological phase-specific sensitivity to drought. For the study, the historical (1947-2021) winter wheat grain yield and daily weather data of two locations in the region (Bushland, TX and Clovis, NM) were used. The logical values of the drought sensitivity parameters of the yield models, especially for the moderately-sensitive and highly-sensitive CDS groups, indicated that the yield models reflected the phenomenon of water stress decreasing the winter wheat yields in this region satisfactorily. The reasonable values of the Nash-Sutcliffe Index (0.65 and 0.72), the Willmott Index (0.88 and 0.92), and the percentage error (23 and 22) for the moderately-sensitive and highly-sensitive CDS groups, respectively, indicated that the yield models for these groups performed reasonably well. These models could be useful for predicting the drought-induced yield losses and scheduling irrigation allocation based on the phenological phase-specific drought sensitivity as influenced by cultivar genotype.
文摘The author affiliation and the funding information in the Acknowledgement section of the online version of the original article was revised.One affiliation(the 8th affiliation)of the first author is added.The Acknowledgement section of the original article has been revised to:Acknowledgments:This research was funded by the National University of Mongolia under grant agreement P2023(grant number P2023-4578)and supported by the Chey Institute for Advanced Studies“International Scholarship Exchange Fellowship for the academic year of 2024-2025”,Republic of Korea,and the National University of Mongolia.We would like to acknowledge the National University of Mongolia and Soumik Das from the Center for the Study of Regional Development,Jawaharlal Nehru University,New Delhi-110067,for his valuable assistance in preparing the geological maps.
基金funded by the Natural Science Foundation Project of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region(2023LHMS04013)the Research Program for Higher Education Institutions in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region(STAQZX202319).
文摘Drought is a natural disaster that significantly impacts the Earth's ecological environment,especially in arid and semi-arid areas.However,drought at a large watershed scale,which plays an important role in sustainable environmental development,has received limited attention.In this study,we analyzed the spatial and temporal variations in drought in the Yellow River Basin,China from 2002 to 2022 and its driving factors using a vegetation health index(VHI).Results showed that average VHI in the Yellow River Basin from 2002 to 2022 was 0.581,with the most severe drought occurring in summer and autumn.The basin showed a slow decreasing trend in drought during the study period.Regarding spatial distribution of monthly drought frequency and trend of VHI,the mean of the frequency was 13.00%,and 78.00%had a drought frequency of 10.00%–20.00%,with moderate drought generally prevailing.Regarding land use types,forest land,grassland,agricultural land,construction land,water body,and wasteland showed a descending order for the annual average VHI.VHI of each land use type was the lowest in summer and autumn,with pronounced seasonal characteristics.The uneven distribution of drought in the Yellow River Basin was primarily influenced by annual precipitation,solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence,and relative humidity.VHI effectively quantified drought conditions at a regional scale and proved to be highly applicable in the Yellow River Basin.The results clarify the effectiveness of VHI for drought monitoring in the Yellow River Basin and can provide a reference for drought monitoring across the basin.
基金supported by grants from the Third Xinjiang Scientific Expedition Program(Grant No.2022xjkk0205 to Lin Xia,No.2021xjkk0604 to Jilong Cheng)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32170416 to Qisen Yang,31900325 to Jilong Cheng)+1 种基金the Joint Fund of National Natural Science Foundation of China(U2003203 to Lin Xia)the Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(Y229YX5105 to Qisen Yang).
文摘How ecological and evolutionary factors affect small mammal diversity in arid regions remains largely unknown.Here,we combined the largest phylogeny and occurrence dataset of Gerbillinae desert rodents to explore the underlying factors shaping present-day distribution patterns.In particular,we analyzed the relative contributions of ecological and evolutionary factors on their species diversity using a variety of models.Additionally,we inferred the ancestral range and possible dispersal scenarios and estimated the diversification rate of Gerbillinae.We found that Gerbillinae likely originated in the Horn of Africa in the Middle Miocene and then dispersed and diversified across arid regions in northern and southern Africa and western and central Asia,forming their current distribution pattern.Multiple ecological and evolutionary factors jointly determine the spatial pattern of Gerbillinae diversity,but evolutionary factors(evolutionary time and speciation rate)and habitat filtering were the most important in explaining the spatial variation in species richness.Our study enhances the understanding of the diversity patterns of small mammals in arid regions and highlights the importance of including evolutionary factors when interpreting the mechanisms underlying large-scale species diversity patterns.
基金supported by the Gansu Province Outstanding Youth Fund(No.23JRRA1016)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.42422102,42071101,41907379)the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2022YFF0801501)。
文摘The response of lake environments in arid Central Asia to climate change during the Late Holocene over the centennial to millennial timescales remains contentious.The reason that primarily paleoenvironmental proxies diverse and the scarcity of accurate quantitative reconstruction records.In this study,we employed diatoms and pollen records from lacustrine sediment in the Aibi Lake of Southwest Junggar Basin to quantitatively reconstruct salinity and watershed precipitation amounts while exploring the associated forcing mechanisms.The results indicate that Aibi Lake salinity varied between 2 and 47 g/L during the Late Holocene Period,indicating a generally brackish environment,and corresponding to prevailing Tryblionella granulata diatom in the lake basin.Westerly-dominated annual precipitation varied between 250 and 320 mm during the Late Holocene Period in the basin,exhibiting a generally semi-arid environment and prevailing desert steppe vegetation.The Aibi Lake has a low salinity of average value of~15 g/L and exhibits elevated precipitation(average value of~280 mm)during the periods of the 2900-1990,1570-1140,and 590-120 cal yr BP.The reconstructed precipitation and salinity exhibit a periodicity of~200 years,which is consistent with the cycle of phase changes of the North Atlantic oscillation(NAO)and total solar irradiance(TSI).This correlation suggests that variations in NOA and TSI significantly influence the precipitation and salinity changes in Central Asia over centennial to millennial timescales.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(42377458 and 41907411).
文摘The Leymus chinensis grassland is one of themost widely distributed associations in the warmtemperate grassland and due to overgrazing in recent years,it has experienced varying degrees of degradation.Vegetative regeneration via bud banks serves as the primaryway of vegetation reproduction in the L.chinensis grassland ecosystem.However,the role of the bud bank in the vegetation regeneration of grazing grassland remains unclear.Based on the relationship between the under-ground bud bank and above-ground vegetation of L.chinensis grassland under different grazing stages,this study aimed to explore whether the grazing grassland could self-recover through the existing bud bank.The findings revealed that the bud density initially increased and then decreased with increasing grazing intensity,indicating that appropriate grazing promoted vegetation renewal.Moreover,grazing significantly influenced the composition of the bud bank:during the early grazing stage,the rhizome buds accounted for the main part,and tiller buds dominated during the mid-stage grazing;while during the late-stage grazing,root-sprouting buds prevailed.The meristem restriction index for light,moderate,and heavy grazing grasslands was close to one;conversely,overgrazing and extreme overgrazing grasslands exhibited the highermeristemrestriction index(2.00,3.19),suggesting that plant regeneration was constrained by bud banks under light-grazing conditions where regenerate rates failed to meet above-ground modular’s recovery requirements following overgrazing and extreme overgrazing events.Consequently,moderate grazing grasslands could achieve natural community recovery by continuously adjusting their vegetative regeneration strategies.Understanding the role of bud banks in vegetative regeneration in grazing grassland will not only supply theoretical support for the ecological succession process of degraded grassland but also provide practical experience for the sustainable management of the L.chinensis grassland ecosystem.
基金financially supported by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research of Tunisia.
文摘Oasis soils in Tunisia are characterized by low soil organic carbon(SOC)stocks,primarily due to their coarse texture and intensive irrigation practices.In the Gataaya Oasis,soils receive 3.000 to 4.000 L/m^(2) annually through submersion irrigation,leading to a rapid decline in SOC stocks.Despite their sandy texture,which promotes good water infiltration,these soils are enriched with clay,dissolved materials,and fertilizers in deeper horizons.This study aimed to assess SOC content in the Gataaya Oasis soils,investigate the transport of labile carbon in drainage water,and clarify the destiny of this transported carbon.Soil samples were collected systematically at three depths(0–10,10–20,and 20–30 cm),focusing on the top 30 cm depth,which is most affected by amendments.Two sampling points(P1 and P2)were selected,i.e.,P1 profile near the trunk of date palms(with manure input)and P2 profile between two adjacent date palms(without manure input).Water samples were collected from drainage systems within the oasis(W1,W2,and W3)and outside the oasis(W4).A laboratory experiment simulating manure application and irrigation was conducted to complement field observations.Physical-chemical analyses revealed a significant decrease in SOC stocks with soil depths.In P1 profile,SOC stocks declined from 17.71 t/hm^(2) at the 0–10 cm depth to 7.80 t/hm^(2) at the 20–30 cm depth.In P2 profile,SOC stocks were lower,decreasing from 6.73 t/hm^(2) at the 0–10 cm depth to 3.57 t/hm^(2) at the 20–30 cm depth.Labile carbon content in drainage water increased outside the oasis,with chemical oxygen demand(COD)values rising from 73 mg/L in W1 water sample to 290 mg/L in W4 water sample,indicating cumulative leaching effects from surrounding oases.The laboratory experiment confirmed field observations,showing a decline in soil organic matter(SOM)content from 3.27%to 2.62%after 12 irrigations,highlighting the vulnerability of SOC stocks to intensive irrigation.This study underscores the low SOC stocks in the Gataaya Oasis soils and their rapid depletion under successive irrigations.The findings provide insights into the dynamics of labile carbon transport and its contribution to regional carbon cycling,offering valuable information for sustainable soil management and ecological protection in arid ecosystems.
