Populus euphratica—Xinjiang distribution

1.Geographical distribution of Populus euphratica in Xinjiang

Xinjiang is the most concentrated area of Populus euphratica forest in the world. The area of Populus euphratica forests in Xinjiang accounted for 91.1% of the total area of Populus euphratica forests in China, with a total area of 360,200 hm². Among them, the area of Populus euphratica forests in Tarim Basin accounted for 89.1% of the total area of Populus euphratica forests in China, with an area of 352,000 hm², which is the largest distribution area of Populus euphratica forests in the world. The vertical distribution of Populus euphratica in Tarim Basin is 800~1100m; in the Junggar Basin is 250~750m; in terraces of the Yili valley is 600~750m. In Turpan Basin, the lowest elevation, Populus euphratica can be distributed to the Aiding Lake depression at an altitude of 170m. Populus euphratica on the east slope of Pamir can rise to an altitude of 2300-2400m; on the southern slope of Tianshan Mountain, it can reach an altitude of 1500-1800m.

2.Geographical distribution of Populus pruinosain Xinjiang

Populus pruinosa is mainly distributed in Yeerqiang River, Kashi River and Hotan River in southern Xinjiang. The lower reaches of Hotan River is the area where the Populus pruinosa is most concentrated. It and the riparian forests in the lower reaches of the Yeerqiang River form the largest gray poplar forest distribution area in Eurasia. The vertical distribution of Populus pruinosa is not high. In the Yeerqiang River, the altitude is 800~1100m, and the highest rise to 1300~1400m, which is less than that of Populus euphratica. In the area of 1028~1394m above sea level, the horizontal and vertical distribution range are very narrow, and the distribution area in Tarim Basin is much smaller than that of Populus euphratica.