Publications
Ecosystem health assessment of desert nature reserve with entropy weight and fuzzy mathematics methods: A case study of Badain Jaran Desert
A comprehensive ecosystem health assessment of the Badain Jaran Desert, the fourth largest desert globally, reveals that 68.1% of its area is in healthy or sub-healthy status, with only 4% and 0.2% classified as unhealthy and sick, respectively. The study utilized entropy weight and fuzzy mathematics methods to evaluate 11 key indicators—such as biomass, net primary productivity (NPP), and soil parameters—across the desert's spatial scale. Findings indicate that while the interior of the desert maintains ecological stability, peripheral areas with frequent human activity require urgent protection and restoration to mitigate further degradation. This research establishes a technical framework for ecosystem health assessment in arid desert reserves, offering critical support for monitoring, prevention, and sustainable management.
Origin of water in the Badain Jaran Desert, China: new insight from isotopes
New isotopic evidence challenges long-standing hypotheses about the origin of water in China's Badain Jaran Desert, revealing that both groundwater and lake water are sourced from modern precipitation in the region rather than remote or ancient sources. The study analyzed radiocarbon (14C), tritium (3H), stable hydrogen and oxygen isotopes (δ2H – δ18O), and d-excess values in water samples from lakes, springs, and local aquifers, alongside evaporation experiments to assess isotopic changes under desert conditions. Contrary to previous theories, the data show that groundwater is derived from recent meteoric precipitation, not ancient carbonates or early Holocene recharge, debunking claims of distant Tibetan Plateau or paleoclimate origins.
Satellite-based estimates of groundwater depletion in the Badain Jaran Desert, China
Groundwater depletion is accelerating in the Badain Jaran Desert, China, despite some recent increases in soil water due to climate-driven rainfall. A study using satellite altimetry and hydrological models found that lake levels and groundwater storage have declined significantly from 2003 to 2009, with long-term depletion outpacing short-term gains. If unchecked, this trend threatens the survival of fragile desert oases, posing ecological and environmental risks.
Hydrochemical characteristics and recharge sources of Lake Nuoertu in the Badain Jaran Desert
Lake Nuoertu, one of the largest and deepest lakes in the Badain Jaran Desert, exhibits significant annual and seasonal variations in its physical and chemical characteristics, unlike groundwater. The lake's hydrochemical composition is consistently Na-Cl-CO3-(SO4), indicating strong evaporation in the region. Stable isotope analysis reveals that groundwater serves as the primary recharge source for Lake Nuoertu, with evidence suggesting a mixed origin of modern and older water (pre-1952). Tritium dating of tufa springs around the lake estimates their age at 75–80 years, highlighting the complex recharge dynamics. The study utilized ion concentrations, total dissolved solids, stable isotopes, and tritium analysis to unravel these processes.
Observation of mega-dune evaporation after various rain events in the hinterland of Badain Jaran Desert, China
Local atmospheric precipitation does not significantly contribute to recharging the groundwater system in the hinterland of Badain Jaran Desert, China. This conclusion was drawn from a study analyzing evaporation on mega-dune surfaces following various rain events, categorized into conventional precipitation (CP), ordinary annual maximum (OAM), and extreme precipitation (EP). The research used long-term precipitation records, automatic weather station data, and eddy covariance system measurements to assess evaporation patterns. Results showed that CP and OAM evaporated within 1-3 days and 3-4 weeks, respectively, while EP required a prolonged period due to the upper dry sand layer's influence. These findings provide insight into the formation mechanisms of lakes in this unique desert region.
Origins of Groundwater Inferred from Isotopic Patterns of the Badain Jaran Desert, Northwestern China
Groundwater in the Badain Jaran Desert (BJD) originates from ancient climatic conditions with higher humidity and lower temperatures, distinct from modern precipitation. Isotopic analysis of δ D, δ 18 O, and d-excess reveals strong evaporation effects and no hydraulic connection to distant regions except Outer Mongolia. The study found that BJD groundwater has abnormally negative d-excess values (-17.5‰), differing significantly from local precipitation (5.7‰) and nearby water bodies, indicating limited modern recharge. Research involved comparing isotopic patterns across the BJD, Heihe River Basin, and surrounding areas to reconstruct past climatic conditions.
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