Plant Protection Strategies for Ecosystem Restoration in the Horqin Desert

Desert ecosystems characterized by extreme aridity and fragile ecological balance face the dual threat of climate change and escalating anthropogenic activities. Restoration of these ecosystems requires strategic plant protection approaches, particularly drought-tolerant and disease-resistant species selection. This paper focuses on current research on plant protection strategies for restoring desert ecosystems, with the discussion focusing on the selection of drought-resistant vegetation in the Horqin Sand. The main findings of this paper reveal that species such as and Artemisia halodendron exhibit superior drought adaptability, with significant variations in leaf traits (e.g., specific leaf area, dry matter content) influencing their survival. Soil potassium dynamics and microbial interactions further modulate plant resilience. Community succession studies highlight the transition from annual to perennial dominance over 30 years, enhancing ecosystem stability. However, challenges persist in balancing ecological restoration with agricultural demands. This study underscores the integration of multi-disciplinary insights to optimize species selection to ensure sustainable desert rehabilitation.