Biodiversity and Conservation in the Eastern Mongolian Steppes

The Eastern Mongolian Steppes form one of the last remaining temperate grassland ecosystems, stretching across vast open plains rich in biodiversity. Dominated by drought-resistant grasses such as feathergrass (Stipa spp.) and fescues (Festuca spp.), this landscape provides critical grazing grounds for native herbivores and livestock. These hardy grasses are well adapted to the region’s arid climate and harsh winters. Interspersed throughout are shrubs like Caragana and wormwood (Artemisia), which enhance plant diversity and serve as forage and shelter for various animals.

Faunal life on the steppes is equally remarkable. The Mongolian gazelle (Procapra gutturosa), one of the world's last great migrating ungulates, forms herds numbering in the hundreds of thousands. Predators like grey wolves and corsac foxes help maintain ecological balance, while the elusive Pallas’ cat and Siberian marmots add to the region’s mammalian diversity. The skies above are home to majestic raptors, including the steppe eagle and saker falcon—both globally vulnerable due to habitat loss and electrocution on power lines. The white-naped crane, a globally threatened species, nests in the wetlands and relies on the region’s fragile hydrology.

Aquatic life thrives in the region’s rivers and lakes. The taimen (Hucho taimen), the world’s largest trout species, is an apex predator known locally as the "river wolf." However, taimen populations are under pressure from overfishing and water pollution.

The steppes are not only ecologically significant but also support a traditional pastoralist culture. Nomadic herders have sustainably grazed these lands for centuries, forming a human-nature relationship rooted in respect and balance. However, increasing pressures such as overgrazing, mining, and climate change threaten the integrity of the ecosystem.

In response, conservation initiatives—led by organizations like WWF Mongolia and local governments—are promoting habitat protection, wildlife monitoring, and community-based resource management. Preserving the Eastern Mongolian Steppes is critical for safeguarding biodiversity, sustaining cultural heritage, and ensuring ecological resilience in the face of global change.
Biodiversity and Conservation in the Eastern Mongolian Steppes

The Eastern Mongolian Steppes: A Vital Grassland Ecosystem at Risk

The Eastern Mongolian Steppes represent one of the world’s largest intact temperate grassland ecosystems, spanning millions of hectares across eastern Mongolia and parts of Inner Asia. Characterized by vast rolling plains and gentle hills, this region is an ecological treasure, serving as a haven for flora and fauna uniquely adapted to its demanding environment.

The climate here is continental and semi-arid, marked by frigid winters that can plunge below -30°C and short, hot summers. These climatic extremes, paired with powerful seasonal winds, sculpt the landscape and foster a resilient plant community. Drought-tolerant grasses like feathergrass (Stipa spp.) and various fescues dominate the terrain, providing a critical food source for native herbivores. Their deep root systems help prevent soil erosion, a vital function in a region susceptible to desertification.

Biodiversity in the Eastern Mongolian Steppes remains rich despite harsh conditions. Large herds of Mongolian gazelles (Procapra gutturosa) roam freely, their populations estimated at over one million individuals, making them one of the largest remaining migratory ungulate groups globally. Predatory birds like steppe eagles and saker falcons patrol the skies, while smaller mammals, such as jerboas and marmots, play key ecological roles in soil aeration and food chains.

Culturally, the steppes form the backbone of Mongolia’s nomadic heritage. For centuries, herders have sustainably grazed livestock—horses, goats, sheep, and camels—on these lands, preserving a harmonious relationship with nature. However, modern pressures, including overgrazing, increased livestock densities, and infrastructure expansion, have begun to disrupt this balance.

Moreover, climate change is exacerbating these challenges. Recent satellite data and local observations report declining precipitation levels and more frequent droughts, which threaten both biodiversity and traditional livelihoods. Recognizing these risks, conservation initiatives such as the Eastern Steppe Living Landscape program have been launched to promote sustainable herding, habitat preservation, and wildlife monitoring.

Preserving the Eastern Mongolian Steppes is not only crucial for biodiversity but also for maintaining a centuries-old cultural legacy. Balancing ecological protection with sustainable development is essential to ensure the long-term survival of this globally significant grassland.
The Eastern Mongolian Steppes: A Vital Grassland Ecosystem at Risk

Steppes in Asia

Steppes is the feather grass or tuftgrass steppes extending from western Russia to the Amur basin.

Greek historian, Herodotus, pointed that out over 2,400 years ago, this region is distinguished by broad expanses of grassland and by the nomadic peoples who live there, driving their herds in horseback. 

Dominant grass included Stipa lessingiana Trin and Rupr, S. capillata L and Festuca rupicola Heuff.

In Kazakhstan there are large areas of semi-desert. Steppes cover vast area in almost every Asia mountains system; Stipa and Festuca dominate and include Carex brumilis.

North of the central stepped region of Mongolia are the forest steppes of southern Siberia extending up along the Selenge River to the shores of Lake Baikal.

The typical landscape consist of meadow steppes or mixed herbaceous steeps and originally feather grass interrupted by scattered stands of deciduous trees.

The oak trees in the west are supplanted by birch and aspen groves in the east. The climate also has features of both the forest and steppe regions. The winter are cold and dry and the summers are moderately warm. 

Roe deer and saiga, a species of antelope, have their homes on the steppes. The ring-necked pheasant, is native to the Central Asian steppe, as are partridges, black grouse, bustards and the falcons and hawks that prey on them.
Steppes in Asia