Spatial Distribution and Characteristics of Debris-Covered Glaciers in Xinjiang Based on CGI-XJ2020

Debris cover is widespread on glaciers and strongly alters their surface albedo, energy balance, and ablation. Using the Chinese Glacier Inventory of Xinjiang 2020 (CGI-XJ2020), this study investigates the spatial distribution of debris-covered glaciers in Xinjiang. A total of 1612 debris-covered glaciers were identified, covering 10,922.06 km2, with 1163.32 km2 (~10.65%) mantled by debris. The estimated uncertainties are 266.27 km2 (2.44%) for debris-covered glaciers and 106.04 km2 (9.12%) for debris-covered portions. These glaciers are mainly distributed across the Tianshan Mountains, Pamir Plateau, Karakoram Mountains, and Kunlun Mountains, with debris concentrated near their largest glacierized centers in the first three ranges. Debris cover is primarily distributed below the median elevation of debris-covered glaciers in each mountain range and is predominantly concentrated on gentle slopes (0–15°), with a preference for north-facing aspects. Among drainage basins, the Tarim Interior Basin hosts the largest debris-covered area (1083.47 km2). Correlation analyses indicate that debris distribution is primarily controlled by glacier topography and debris-supply zone characteristics, with steep supply zones (slope > 45°) playing a key role in debris formation.