Qilian Mountains: Explainer
Updated 17:37, 11-Oct-2019
CGTN
00:42

Qilian is a mountain range in northwest China, stretching over 800 kilometers along the border between Gansu and Qinghai provinces.

Most mountains are over 4,000 meters high and thus have their tops covered by snow all the year round. The highest peak is more than 5,800 meters above sea level.

Qilian is a source of numerous rivers and creeks, including the Heihe River, which facilitate farming irrigation in areas close to its northern edge.

The Heihe River in northwest China. /VCG Photo

The Heihe River in northwest China. /VCG Photo

The region has over 2,000 glaciers, and it is where China conducted its first ever glacier study expedition in 1958.

The typical ecosystem of Qilian Mountains has been categorized by the World Wildlife Fund as conifer forests.

Conifer forests in Qilian Mountains in northwest China. /VCG Photo

Conifer forests in Qilian Mountains in northwest China. /VCG Photo

Glassland dominates the land areas from 2,800 meters above sea level.

It is home to many rare animal and plant species, including snow leopard, Demoiselle crane, Bactrian camel and Tibetan gazelle.

Snow leopard. /VCG Photo

Snow leopard. /VCG Photo

Demoiselle crane. /VCG Photo

Demoiselle crane. /VCG Photo

Bactrian camel. /VCG Photo

Bactrian camel. /VCG Photo

Tibetan gazelle. /VCG Photo

Tibetan gazelle. /VCG Photo

Series Introduction:

Qilian Mountains – a world unto itself

The Qilian Mountains are a critical mountain range in NW China, home to numerous animals and plants that the country considers to be treasures.

In this series, CGTN Nature's crew takes you on a journey into the mountains, valleys, and deserts, presenting you the true Qilian.

Watch More:

Moss on Qilian Mountains: Humble but important

The natural artwork of the Danxia landform in NW China

Toadhead agama: The lizard roaming the desert

Yardang landform – the power of wind

(All images via VCG)

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at nature@cgtn.com.)