Floristic analysis of saxaul woodlands in the Ooshyn Gobi: composition and structure of local floras

Biodiversity is a fundamental component of biosphere stability and has both scientific and practical significance for nature conservation and ecosystem management. Despite its ecological importance, the flora of the eastern part of the Ooshyn Gobi region remains insufficiently studied. This study examines the floristic composition and structure of saxaul (Haloxylon ammodendron) communities associated with Zygophyllum xanthoxylon and other shrub species in the eastern site Ooshyn Gobi, Mongolia. The study area is located near the northern boundary of the distribution range of H. ammodendron, making it particularly important for understanding the floristic characteristics of saxaul ecosystems under marginal environmental conditions.

A systematic analysis of the flora of saxaul woodlands was conducted to determine their taxonomic, ecological, and geographical structure. The results revealed that the flora is comprising 108 species belonging to 76 genera and 25 families. The floristic composition is characterized by a high degree of heterogeneity, reflected in considerable species richness, a substantial proportion of monotypic families, and the dominance of several leading families, including Asteraceae, Poaceae, Fabaceae, Amaranthaceae, and Rosaceae.

Analysis of the geographical structure showed the predominance of South Siberian and Eurasian floristic elements, while the influence of East Asian and Daurian–Manchurian floristic centers was also evident. Species activity analysis was applied to evaluate the phytocoenotic. The results highlighted the important ecological role of the shrub Zygophyllum xanthoxylon together with several herbaceous edificatory and diagnostic species in the formation and maintenance of saxaul communities.

The findings contribute to a better understanding of the biodiversity, floristic structure, and ecological organization of saxaul ecosystems in the eastern Ooshyn Gobi and provide a scientific basis for their conservation and sustainable management.