Oasis, Desert and Wetland at Mosuowan (15435)
China (mainland), Asia
Site overview
KBA status: confirmed
Year of last assessment: 2009
National site name: Oasis, Desert and Wetland at Mosuowan
Central coordinates: Latitude: 44.5000, Longitude: 86.0000
System: freshwater, terrestrial
Elevation (m): 350 to 800
Area of KBA (km2): 718.33206
KBA classification: Global/Regional TBD
Legacy site: Yes
Site details
Site description: Located on the northern slope of the Tian Shan mountains, and in the southern part of the Junggar Basin. The main river of the IBA is the Manas, which originates from the central section of the Tian Shan, and the flood plain has fertile soil. The man-made channels, networks of natural rivers and the lakes are important staging areas for migratory birds. The Gurbantünggüt Desert and surrounding areas are within the historical ranges of Camelus ferus, Equus hemionus, Gazella subgutturosa and Saiga tatarica.
Rationale for qualifying as KBA: This site qualifies as a Key Biodiversity Area of international significance because it meets one or more previously established criteria and thresholds for identifying sites of biodiversity importance (including Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas, Alliance for Zero Extinction sites, and Key Biodiversity Areas)
Additional biodiversity: Non-bird biodiversity: Historical records of Equus przewalskii and Saiga tatarica, but they are now locally extinct. Other animals include Equus hemionus and Gazella subgutturosa.
Delineation rationale: Polygon provided by Wendall – source unknown. Accuracy difficult to determine.
Habitats
| IUCN Habitat | Coverage % | Habitat detail |
|---|---|---|
| Desert | 50 | |
| Wetlands(Inland) | 50 |