Russia and Mongolia Collaboratively Study the Sun’s Impact on Forest Ecosystems.
Russian and Mongolian scientists conducted their first joint study, examining the influence of sunlight on mountainous forest ecosystems in northern Mongolia. Through the analysis of satellite observation data from 2013 to 2021, it was revealed that mountain forests in this region have relatively low productivity, making them vulnerable to climate change.
Researchers found that forests in northern Mongolia efficiently harness solar energy but produce less biomass compared to alpine meadows and cedar forests, especially during the summer. This feature renders mountainous forests more susceptible to climate change and external impacts— for example, even slight overgrazing can lead to a complete restructuring of the ecosystem.
The findings from this study will enable scientists to enhance forest conservation and restoration programs in the Khordol Saridag mountains and other regions, including those in Russia.
Photo: nature.baikal.ru