Water sources for typical desert vegetation in the Ebinur Lake basin

In arid and semi-arid environments, desert vegetation plays an important role in preventing soil erosion by wind helps maintain the stability of oasis ecosystems. Four types typical vegetation, namely Populus euphratica, Haloxylon ammodendron, Nitraria sibirica, Halostachs caspica, corresponding to different habitats (i.e., river bank, sand dune, desert, salt marsh) were chosen as model this research. The δ2H δ18O for rainwater, water, plant water applied identify sources quantify proportions used over entire growth period (from March October). results showed that precipitation Ebinur Lake basin varied from −142.5‰ −0.6‰ −20.16‰ 1.20‰, respectively. largest values occurred summer smallest winter. four decreased gradually with increasing depth. extracted stems plants had similar variation trends, is, maximum was observed spring minimum summer. Among plants, H. caspica highest stable isotopic stem followed N. P. euphratica. utilization ratios across stages. Throughout growing period, ammodendron mainly groundwater, whereas source sibirica greatly throughout season. spring, relied on surface a contribution rate 80%–94%. However, summer, proportion deep 31%–36%; autumn, middle 33%–36%. topsoil layer slightly increased 20%–36% euphratica intermediate 53%–54%. groundwater main source, 72%–88%, only 2%–5% came rose 11%–21%. indicated there significant differences use during areas. This research provides theoretical basis understanding mechanisms, adaptation strategies, restoration management