Qionglai–Minshan conifer forests

Qionglai-Minshan conifer forests
Larches (Larix potaninii) in the Daxue Mountains of Danba County in autumn
Ecoregion territory (in purple)
Ecoregion territory (in purple)
Ecology
RealmPalearctic
BiomeTemperate coniferous forests
Geography
CountryChina
Conifer forests in Jiuzhaigou Valley

The Qionglai-Minshan conifer forests are a World Wide Fund for Nature ecoregion in Southwest China. These forests are classified as temperate coniferous forests and are part of the Palearctic realm.

Geography[edit]

The Qionglai-Minshan conifer forests cover the mountains along the easternmost edge of the Tibetan Plateau including the Min Mountains, Qionglai Mountains, Daxue Mountains, and Daliang Mountains. In addition to these mountain ranges, the lower reaches of the Dadu River valley support significant portions of the forests. The Qionglai-Minshan conifer forests are found almost entirely within western Sichuan, but small portions can also be found in southern Gansu and extreme northeast Yunnan.[1]

Flora and fauna[edit]

The understories of the Qionglai-Minshan conifer forests commonly feature bamboo. This ecoregion is one of the last remaining habitats where wild giant pandas can be found, alongside red pandas, clouded leopards, musk deer, Sichuan takin, and golden snub-nosed monkeys.[2][3]

Protected areas[edit]

Conservation areas and scenic spots within the Qionglai-Minshan conifer forests include Wolong National Nature Reserve and Jiuzhaigou Valley.

References[edit]

  1. ^ "Qionglai-Minshan conifer forests". Global Species. Myers Enterprises II. Archived from the original on 30 August 2017. Retrieved 30 August 2017.
  2. ^ "Eastern Asia: Southern China". WWF. World Wildlife Fund. Retrieved 30 August 2017.
  3. ^ "Qionglai-Minshan Conifer Forests". One Earth. Retrieved 2023-11-29.