Central Asian Internal Drainage Basin (Mongolia)

The Central Asian Internal Drainage Basin encompasses a vast region of endorheic (closed) drainage systems across Central Asia, with a significant portion located within Mongolia. This basin is characterized by rivers and streams that do not flow into an ocean, but instead terminate in inland lakes, deserts, or marshes.

In Mongolia, the Central Asian Internal Drainage Basin includes several major drainage areas, notably the Great Lakes Depression and the Valley of the Lakes. These depressions are characterized by a series of interconnected or isolated lakes, such as Uvs Nuur (Uvs Lake), Khyargas Nuur (Khyargas Lake), and Khuvsgul Nuur (Lake Khuvsgul, sometimes considered part of the Arctic drainage basin due to its outflow via the Selenga River into Lake Baikal and ultimately the Arctic Ocean, though the volume of water draining to Baikal is tiny compared to the lake's total inflows.)

The region’s climate is arid to semi-arid, with hot summers and cold winters. Precipitation is relatively low, and evaporation rates are high, contributing to the closed nature of the drainage systems. Water scarcity is a significant concern, and the delicate ecological balance is vulnerable to climate change and human activities such as overgrazing and mining.

The basin supports a variety of ecosystems, including grasslands, deserts, and wetlands. These ecosystems are home to unique flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to the region. The lakes and rivers provide essential habitat for fish, birds, and other wildlife.

The Central Asian Internal Drainage Basin in Mongolia is a vital resource for local communities, providing water for agriculture, livestock, and domestic use. Sustainable management of water resources is crucial for ensuring the long-term well-being of both the environment and the people who depend on it. The region’s endorheic nature makes it particularly sensitive to changes in water availability and quality.