description Selenge-Orkhon forest steppe Overview
The Selenge-Orkhon forest steppe is a terrestrial ecoregion designated as PA0816 by the World Wildlife Fund. Spanning the river basins of the Selenge and Orkhon rivers, it covers regions of northern Mongolia and adjacent areas of southern Russia. The area represents a critical ecological transition zone between the coniferous taiga to the north and the dry steppe to the south. It is characterized by mixed conifer and deciduous forests interspersed with grasslands, supporting diverse flora and fauna.
help Selenge-Orkhon forest steppe FAQ
Where is the Selenge-Orkhon forest steppe located?
The ecoregion follows parts of the Selenga and Orkhon river basins across northern Mongolia and into Russia. WWF identifies it as PA0816, a Palearctic temperate grassland, savanna, and shrubland ecoregion.
Why is the Selenge-Orkhon region called forest steppe?
It forms a transition where grassland steppe meets the southern edge of Siberian taiga. Forested slopes and river valleys occur beside broad areas dominated by grasses and other steppe vegetation.
Which major lake receives water from the Selenga basin?
The Selenga River flows north into Russia and supplies much of the inflow to Lake Baikal. Conditions in its Mongolian and Russian watershed therefore affect one of the world's largest freshwater ecosystems.
What threatens the Selenge-Orkhon forest steppe?
Heavy livestock grazing, wildfire, mining, and conversion near settlements can degrade its grasslands and river corridors. Climate shifts also affect the fragile boundary between forest and dry steppe.
explore Explore More
Similar to Selenge-Orkhon forest steppe
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
