Publications
Future land use intensifies trade-offs between development and conservation in the Yellow River Basin's critical ecological areas
Future land use intensifies trade-offs between development and conservation in the Yellow River Basin's critical ecological areas (CEAs). This study reveals that while expanding ecological land can partially mitigate the adverse effects of construction land on ecosystem multifunctionality and stability, it is insufficient to counteract the negative impacts on ecosystem integrity. The research employs the Ecosystem Multifunctionality–Stability–Integrity (MSI) framework to assess future CEA dynamics under four land use scenarios projected for 2030 and 2050: Historical Baseline (HIS), Economic Priority (EN), Ecological Priority (EL), and Ecological-Economic Coordination (EE). The findings indicate that the EL scenario yields the most favorable outcomes, preserving the largest extent of CEA retained regions (CRRs) and the smallest risk areas. Risk areas exhibit significantly lower levels of ecosystem stability and integrity compared to CEA averages. This study provides insights for balancing ecological risk prevention and sustainable development in vulnerable river basins.
Hydrogeochemical formation mechanism of springs in Huanglong, a world natural heritage, Sichuan, China
A study of Huanglong World Natural Heritage site reveals that the unique alpine karst landscape, featuring calcareous pools and travertine formations, is primarily shaped by water–rock interactions. The hydrochemical composition of its springs, dominated by Ca²⁺ and HCO₃⁻ ions, originates from carbonate mineral weathering and dissolution. Using mathematical statistics, cluster analysis, and the Gibbs model, researchers determined that while tourism has some impact, alternating cation adsorption does not significantly alter the hydrochemistry. This research provides critical insights for the sustainable management of Huanglong's water resources, supporting conservation efforts to preserve its extraordinary geological features.
Complete Mitochondrial Genomes of Spotted Forest Musk Deer (Moschus berezovskii) from Huanglong Mountain, Shaanxi, China, and Phylogenetic Analysis of Moschidae
Phylogenetic analysis confirms that the spotted forest musk deer (Moschus berezovskii) from Huanglong Mountain, Shaanxi, China, belongs to the forest musk deer species, resolving long-standing taxonomic uncertainty. The study sequenced and assembled complete mitochondrial genomes of two individuals, revealing an average length of 16,355 base pairs with 13 protein-coding genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, and 22 transfer RNA genes. By incorporating all available Moschidae mitogenomes into a robust phylogenetic framework, the research clarifies evolutionary relationships within the family and supports the monophyly of M. berezovskii. This work provides critical molecular evidence to distinguish between morphologically similar musk deer species and advances understanding of their genetic diversity.
Lilium huanglongense (Liliaceae): a newly-discovered species in north-western Sichuan, China
Researchers have identified Lilium huanglongense, a newly-discovered lily species within the section Lophophora, found in the Huanglong National Nature Reserve, Sichuan, China. This discovery fills a distribution gap between broad-leaved forest and alpine scrub species in the Hengduan Mountains, one of the world's biodiversity hotspots. Morphological similarities to Lilium fargesii and molecular phylogenetic analyses using nuclear ITS and chloroplast genomes confirm its independent status. The study enhances understanding of Lophophora diversity and distribution history, contributing to the region's rich botanical heritage.
Sedimentation differences and depositional model in slope‐controlled travertine precipitation stream in Huanglong, China
A novel depositional model for travertine formation reveals how slope gradients and hydrodynamic conditions shape the growth of continental carbonate deposits. Research at Huanglong, China, demonstrates that steep slopes induce water jumps and jagged fluctuations in calcium carbonate concentrations, leading to distinct lamination structures characterized by alternating dense calcite and sparse calcite–microbial assemblages. The interplay between topography, hydrodynamics, and microbial activity regulates travertine aggradation and progradation, influencing the curvature of arc structures. This study integrates sedimentological analysis, hydrodynamic modeling, and regional hydrochemical variability to elucidate morphological evolution in slope-controlled travertine systems, offering insights applicable to other continental carbonate depositional areas.
Simulation of Control Process of Fluid Boundary Layer on Deposition of Travertine Particles in Huanglong Landscape Water Based on Computational Fluid Dynamics Software (CFD)
Research reveals that the deposition of calcium carbonate particles in Huanglong's colorful pools is significantly influenced by fluid boundary layers and low-velocity zones, particularly behind baffles. Under horizontal flow conditions, particle concentration peaked at 1.06%, with substantial aggregation and settling observed at the bottom right of the channel, where boundary layer effects are strongest. Inclined surfaces with baffles further enhanced deposition in low-speed regions, with calcium carbonate deposition rates ranging from 4.06 mm/a to 81.7 mm/a, closely aligning with field observations. The study employed Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) for real-time flow measurements and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, including the Discrete Phase Model (DPM), to track particle trajectories and deposition rates, providing critical insights into sedimentation dynamics in aquatic environments.
Hyperspectral identification of travertine state in Huanglong by the PSO-BPNN method
A novel hyperspectral identification method achieved high accuracy in distinguishing the state of travertine formations at Huanglong. The PSO-BPNN classifier, combining particle swarm optimization with backpropagation neural networks, demonstrated exceptional performance with an overall accuracy of 93%, F1-score of 92%, and Kappa coefficient of 97%. This method effectively categorized healthy travertine, blackened formations, those affected by algae erosion, and bare ground using hyperspectral data. The approach involved correlation analysis, sensitive band extraction, and real-world application on Micro-Hyperspectral imaging data, outperforming traditional BPNN classifiers.
Micro-Scale Analysis and Optimization of Rural Settlement Spatial Patterns: A Case Study of Huanglong Town, Dayu County
Rural settlements in Huanglong Town, Dayu County, Jiangxi Province, exhibit distinct spatial patterns that can be optimized for sustainable development. The study identifies four optimization models—stable improvement, internal potential exploitation, controlled expansion, and relocation and withdrawal—based on micro-scale analysis of spatial form, structure, and order. These models provide differentiated strategies tailored to the town's heterogeneous landscape, which includes northern mountainous areas, central plains, and southern hilly regions. The research employs remote sensing and GIS spatial analysis to quantify settlement patterns, revealing intrinsic characteristics that guide systematic optimization for rural revitalization.
Travertine Mineralogical Characteristics and Spatial Distribution in Huanglong, China, a World Natural Heritage: Derived from Late Pleistocene to Early Holocene Glacial U-Shaped Valley Carbonate Deposits
Huanglong, China's UNESCO World Heritage Site, features a distinctive travertine landscape shaped by late Pleistocene to early Holocene glacial activity. Research reveals that the site's travertine deposits, primarily composed of high-purity calcite (over 95% CaCO₃), exhibit diverse vertical structures including porous and dense forms due to superficial plant alteration. The Huanglong Trench, spanning 3.6 km with an average thickness of 17.8 m, showcases unique geological features like waterfalls, terraces, beaches, and karst caves, contributing significantly to global travertine studies. The study employed hydrogeological surveys, UAV aerial mapping, and mineral analysis to elucidate the mineralogical characteristics and spatial distribution of these rare deposits.
Hydrochemical characteristics and driving factors of travertine deposition in Huanglong, Sichuan, SW, China
A study of Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area reveals that travertine deposition is primarily driven by carbonate rock weathering, with significant contributions from evaporated salt rocks. Surface water in the region exhibits low to moderate total dissolved solids (TDS) ranging from 109 to 559 mg/L, averaging 318.67 mg/L, and a weakly alkaline pH (6.81–8.62). Hydrochemical analysis identified HCO3–Ca as the dominant type, with Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ cations and HCO3⁻ anions showing strong correlations, indicating carbonate weathering as the main source of ions. Additional factors, such as water-rock interactions and ion exchange, also influence travertine formation. The research employed mathematical statistics, Piper diagrams, Gibbs diagrams, and ion correlation analysis to elucidate these processes.
Hydrochemical Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Groundwater in Huanglong, a World Natural Heritage
Groundwater in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Huanglong is predominantly weakly alkaline, with calcium and bicarbonate ions as its primary constituents. A study analyzing hydrochemical characteristics reveals that total dissolved solids (TDS) are strongly correlated with these ions, suggesting their significant contribution to groundwater composition. The research, employing Piper’s trilinear diagram, Gibbs diagram, ion correlation analysis, and water-rock modeling, concludes that carbonate rock weathering is the dominant process shaping groundwater chemistry in the area, with minimal ion-exchange activity. These findings offer critical insights for sustainable water resource management and planning in Huanglong.
Physicochemical Characterization and Microbial Diversity of Calcareous Water in Huanglong Ravine, China—A World’s Heritage Site
Researchers have uncovered significant insights into the microbial diversity and physicochemical characteristics of Huanglong Ravine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its calcareous sinter landscape. The study found that water samples from the ravine exhibited moderate eutrophication, with total phosphorus (TP) ranging from 0.2 to 0.3 mg/L and total nitrogen (TN) from 0.46 to 2.09 mg/L. Notably, microorganisms such as Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, and Brevundimonas were prevalent, with their abundance showing a positive correlation with TP and TN levels. This discovery sheds light on the potential causes of algal blooms in the ravine and provides a scientific foundation for the conservation of its unique calcareous landscape. The study utilized high-throughput sequencing to analyze microbial diversity, offering valuable data for understanding the ecological dynamics of this heritage site.
Stability and Spatial Structure of Chinese Pine (Pinus tabuliformis Carr.) Plantations in Loess Hilly Region: A Case Study from Huanglong Mountain
A study assessing the long-term ecological stability of Chinese pine (Pinus tabuliformis Carr.) plantations in Huanglong Mountain reveals that 79.5% exhibit moderate stability while 20.5% show good stability. Using a novel unit circle method to evaluate biological, resistance, and functional stability across 44 plots, researchers found most plantations exhibit random distribution, moderate size differentiation, low species mixing, and high crowding. Correlations between stability and spatial structure parameters identified mingling as the strongest factor influencing stability, while crowding showed no significant impact. The study highlights specific spatial structures negatively linked to stability, offering targeted management insights for enhancing plantation resilience through strategic thinning. This methodology serves as a reference for similar ecosystems with comparable functions and conditions.
Water Environmental Characteristics and Eutrophication Evaluation of Alpine Karst Mountains in Huanglong, Sichuan, China
A medium eutrophication state has been identified in the Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area threatening travertine deposition and its ecological value. The study analyzed 14 water samples from surface and groundwater sources using mathematical statistics, Piper diagrams, and Gibbs and Gaillardet models to assess hydrochemical types, components, and pollution characteristics. Findings revealed that the area's water is weakly alkaline, dominated by Ca²⁺ cations and HCO₃⁻ anions, with travertine formation primarily controlled by carbonate rock weathering. The research highlights significant spatial and temporal variations in nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon levels, underscoring the need for targeted management to mitigate eutrophication impacts on this unique alpine karst landscape.
Geodiversity underpins biodiversity but the relations can be complex: Implications from two biodiversity proxies
A complex, context-dependent relationship between geodiversity and biodiversity was revealed through the analysis of two proxy measures—textural satellite image data and landscape metrics—in the Loess Plateau, China. The study found that while habitat heterogeneity increased in most areas (39.87–62.41%) from 2000 to 2015, particularly in central and southwestern regions, landscape metrics decreased significantly (38.14–71.94%) in the same zones, including the Ziwuling and Huanglong forest areas. Geographically-weighted spatial correlation analysis showed that stronger correlations between geodiversity and biodiversity proxies occurred in human-dominated landscapes. These findings underscore the importance of integrating geodiversity and biodiversity in conservation planning, particularly in areas with high geodiversity or significant human influence.
Sedimentary evolution of the Dawan travertines and their geological environmental significance, Huanglong, China
Travertine deposition in the Dawan Valley, adjacent to China's Huanglong World Heritage Site, began around 13,000 years ago and declined by 7,000 years ago. This timing coincides with large-scale travertine deposition in the nearby Huanglong Valley, suggesting a hydrological transition event linked to tectonic activity, earthquakes, or glacial retreat due to climate warming. Using U-series dating via multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, researchers established a time series for travertine formation, providing critical age data for late Cenozoic geological and environmental events on the eastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The study offers new insights into glaciation, tectonic activity, and seismicity but highlights the need for further exploration of depositional breaks and forcing factors.
Foraging and Day-roosting Sites Selection by the Endangered Brown-eared Pheasant Crossoptilon mantchuricum during Autumn in the Huanglong Mountains, Shaanxi Province, China
A study on the endangered brown-eared pheasant (Crossoptilon mantchuricum) in Huanglong Mountains, China, revealed distinct habitat preferences for foraging and day-roosting during autumn. Foraging sites were characterized by broadleaved forests at mid to upper slopes with gullies, featuring higher altitude, steeper terrain, taller trees, less shrub cover, and lower herb height. In contrast, day-roosting sites favored ridges on sunny upper slopes, with higher altitude but smaller tree cover, lower shrub and herb height, and proximity to wooded areas while being distant from households. A classification model distinguished foraging (90.2% accuracy) and day-roosting (88.9% accuracy) sites based on these variables, indicating that water sources were not critical for habitat selection in this season. The findings underscore the need for conservation strategies that account for daily activity shifts in habitat requirements.
The Hirtodrosophila melanderi species group (Diptera: Drosophilidae) from the Huanglong National Nature Reserve, Sichuan, China
Researchers have identified five new species within the Hirtodrosophila melanderi species group, including H. minshanensis, H. lambda, H. zhangae, H. zouae, and H. nigrispina, from the Huanglong National Nature Reserve in Sichuan, China. This discovery expands the known diversity of this fungivorous fly group, which is predominantly found at high altitudes near the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The study employed a combination of morphological analysis and DNA barcoding (mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene sequencing) to delimit species boundaries. Additionally, an updated identification key for all species in the H. melanderi group was provided, contributing to taxonomic clarity and biodiversity documentation in this UNESCO-listed region.
Effects of different crown densities on structure of Quercus wutaishanica populations in Huanglong Mountains, Northwest China
Research on Quercus wutaishanica (Liaodong oak) populations in Huanglong Mountains reveals that crown density of 0.7 optimizes population structure and growth, offering ideal conditions for silvicultural practices in Northwest China. The study analyzed age structure, survival curves, height classes, and crown size across 16 plots with varying densities (0.6–0.9) and slopes (sunny vs. shady). Findings indicate that saplings dominate at all densities but face bottlenecks during the juvenile stage, while larger trees thrive more in shady environments. Sunny slopes show higher proportions of younger stages, whereas shady slopes favor mature trees. Crown density 0.7 consistently supports healthier population dynamics, suggesting it as a target for sustainable forest management.
Effects of thinning intensity on fine root biomass and morphological characteristics of middle-aged Pinus tabulaeformis plantations in the Huanglong Mountains
A study on the Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area reveals that moderate thinning intensity (retaining a canopy closure of 0.7) maximizes fine root biomass, root length density, and surface area density in middle-aged Pinus tabulaeformis plantations, promoting optimal tree growth by efficiently utilizing site resources. The research employed root auger sampling across three soil layers (0-20 cm, 20-40 cm, and 40-60 cm) to assess fine root biomass and morphological traits under four thinning intensities: control, light, moderate, and heavy. Results showed that while fine root biomass initially increased with thinning intensity, it declined significantly under heavy thinning, particularly in the topsoil (0-20 cm). Moderate thinning also enhanced specific root length and surface area, benefiting smaller diameter roots (0-1.0 mm) more than larger ones (1.0-2.0 mm). This finding underscores the ecological balance required to sustain healthy Pinus tabulaeformis forests in the Huanglong Mountains.
The Research of Geochemical Characteristics and Indicative Significance for the Source Springs - A Case of Huanglong Valley in Sichuan Province
Geochemical analysis of Huanglong Valley's source springs reveals that the gases dissolved in its water originate primarily from deep Earth, carrying unique signatures distinct from atmospheric or biogenic sources. This finding underscores the valley's potential as a natural archive for tectonic activity, including earthquakes and volcanic processes. The study employed hydrochemical data logging, in-situ titrating, and sample collection of both spring and atmospheric waters to distinguish sediment sources and decode geological clues trapped in travertine deposits within deep grooves. These insights highlight Huanglong’s significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, not only for its scenic beauty but also for its role in unraveling Earth's dynamic processes.
Dynamic Change in Spring Habitat use by the Brown Eared Pheasant (Crossptilon mantchuricum) in the Huanglong Mountains, Yanan City, Shaanxi Province, China
Research reveals that the brown eared pheasant (Crossoptilon mantchuricum), a threatened species, exhibits dynamic habitat preferences during spring, shifting between pre-breeding and breeding seasons in Huanglongshan Nature Reserve, China. During the pre-breeding season (February–May 2011), these birds favored mixed forests with intermediate sun exposure on gentle slopes (<10°), near water sources and footpaths, characterized by larger tree diameters, lower shrub density, reduced grass cover, and lower altitudes. Conversely, breeding-season habitats included slightly higher altitudes, increased shrub density, moderately steep slopes (10°–20°), and greater distance from water and paths. These shifts align with seasonal vegetation and food-resource availability, underscoring the need for adaptive conservation strategies to accommodate such habitat dynamics.
Metabolic Influence of Psychrophilic Diatoms on Travertines at the Huanglong Natural Scenic District of China
Psychrophilic diatoms of the genus Cymbella, thriving in extremely cold conditions at Huanglong's travertine deposits, significantly influence mineralization processes. These diatoms form biofilms with extracellular polysaccharide substances (EPS), which protect travertine from etching and serve as templates for its formation during water re-flowing seasons. Research using near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (NEXAFS) revealed biogenic distortions in the crystal lattice of travertine calcite, indicating metabolic mediation by these diatoms. This study highlights the crucial role of psychrophilic diatoms in promoting both the formation and dissolution of travertine in cold environments, offering insights into the ecological and geological dynamics of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Origin of Paleokarst in the Huanglong Formation of the Eastern Sichuan Basin: Evidence from δ13C, δ18O and87Sr/86Sr
A new study reveals that the paleokarst in the Huanglong Formation of the Eastern Sichuan Basin originated from atmospheric freshwater, providing critical insights into ancient hydrological conditions. The research analyzed carbon (δ13C), oxygen (δ18O), and strontium (87Sr/86Sr) isotopes across four types of karst rocks—ranging from slightly to intensely corroded—and compared them with non-karstic rocks. Findings indicate that atmospheric freshwater, characterized by distinct isotopic signatures, was the primary driver of karst formation, with varying degrees of corrosion reflecting different fluid interactions. The study also highlights the role of diagenetic fluids in altering these isotopes, offering a geochemical framework to understand the temporal and spatial distribution of paleokarst development in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hydrochemical Variations of Springs in Huanglong Scenic of Sichuan Provience during July
Researchers identified Springs 2#, 5#, and 6# as the primary sources of water in Huanglong Scenic Area, with their flow dynamics closely linked to seasonal variations. Notably, rising springs exhibited significantly higher bicarbonate (HCO3-) concentrations (~900 ppm) compared to decreasing springs (~350 ppm), suggesting distinct hydrochemical processes at play. The study employed a combination of automatic hydrochemical logging, in situ titrating, and indoor analysis to track real-time changes in water quantity, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature, and bacterial levels across the springs. This approach revealed intricate relationships between spring behavior and environmental factors, offering critical insights for understanding the hydrochemistry of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Modeling Spring Habitat Requirements of the Endangered Brown Eared PheasantCrossoptilon mantchuricumin the Huanglong Mountains, Shaanxi Province, China
A predictive model identifies critical habitat factors for the endangered brown eared pheasant (Crossoptilon mantchuricum) in Huanglong, China. The study found that spring habitat selection is strongly influenced by proximity to water, slope degree, tree cover, and leaf litter depth—factors that can guide targeted conservation efforts. Researchers surveyed 206 grid plots across two years (2007–2008), quantifying environmental variables and validating the model's accuracy through logistic regression. Key recommendations include restricting tourism, prohibiting resource extraction in core areas, and protecting mixed forests and water sources to safeguard pheasant populations.
Sustainable Development of Tourism Industry in Jiuzhai-Huanglong Scenic Zone
A strategic framework for sustainable tourism development in the Jiuzhai-Huanglong Scenic Zone has been proposed to address critical challenges such as resource depletion, ecological contamination, and inadequate management. The study identifies key issues, including waste of tourism resources, environmental degradation, and emerging problems related to global trade standards. It introduces six interconnected systems—sustainable resource protection, eco-environmental safeguards, green product planning, marketing, management, and theoretical foundations—to ensure long-term viability. This approach integrates ecological preservation with economic growth, offering a model for balancing tourism expansion and conservation in fragile high-altitude ecosystems.
The Microbial Factor of Travertine Deposition between Yellowstone National Park (YNP), USA and Huanglong Scenic, Sichuan
A comparative analysis of travertine deposition mechanisms between Yellowstone National Park (YNP), USA, and Huanglong Scenic District, Sichuan, China, reveals distinct microbial influences despite differing environmental conditions. While YNP's travertine formation is driven by geothermal activity, Huanglong's occurs in high-altitude, cold environments with cold-water systems. The study highlights the role of microbial diversity, community structure, and metabolic pathways in YNP's hot springs, contributing to our understanding of carbon cycling and potential insights for extraterrestrial research, particularly Mars. It also suggests that similar biological factors may influence travertine deposition in Huanglong, warranting further investigation.
Foraging-sites and day-roosting selection of Crossoptilon mantchuricum during early breeding period in Huanglong Mountains Nature Reserve, Shaanxi, China
A study on the brown-eared pheasant (Crossoptilon mantchuricum) in Huanglong Mountains, Shaanxi, China, revealed distinct habitat preferences for foraging and day-roosting during the early breeding period (February-March 2006). The research identified that these birds favored foraging sites with lower altitude, gentler slopes, proximity to trails or gullies, fewer tree/shrub varieties, reduced grass cover/height, and higher visibility. Conversely, they preferred half-sunny slopes for roosting, characterized by smaller slope degrees, greater distance from trails, denser tree cover, and lower shrub/grass density/height with reduced visibility. Classification models using these variables accurately distinguished used habitats from random sites (96.08% for foraging, 75.64% for roosting), highlighting critical factors like geographical characteristics, tree density, shrub diversity, grass cover, slope degree, and trail distance as key discriminators. The findings provide insights into the ecological requirements of this species in its natural habitat.
Paleokarst features and reservoir distribution in the Huanglong Formation of eastern Sichuan
Karstic breccias serve as the most direct indicator of paleokarst features, with their development significantly influenced by fluid sources, fluid nature, and isotopic fractionation. The study reveals that dolomite in the C2hl2 formation provides the optimal lithology for reservoir development, particularly in the upper and lower dissolution intervals. Reservoir formation is primarily controlled by structure, paleoclimate, and lithology, with the best positions being karst highlands, remnant hills, and sloping fields on karst slopes. The research utilized a combination of surface geology, drilling data, and isotopic analysis (carbon, oxygen, strontium) to analyze vertical zoning, plane distribution, and the degree of karstification.
Spatial and temporal hydrochemical variations of the spring-fed travertine-depositing stream in the Huanglong Ravine, Sichuan, SW China
Research reveals that travertine deposition in Huanglong Ravine is driven by intense CO2 degassing, which reduces pCO2 and specific conductivity while increasing pH and saturation index downstream. However, this process is disrupted by snowmelt dilution and additional CO2 inputs from downstream springs. The study also found that travertine deposition accelerates during daylight hours due to higher water temperatures and algal photosynthesis. Additionally, increased phosphate levels linked to tourism activities may inhibit calcite precipitation and contribute to discoloration, posing a threat to the site's unique landscape. To achieve these insights, the researchers employed automatic hydrochemical logging, in situ titration, and laboratory analysis, while also noting the impact of the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake on the spring's chemistry.
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