Spatial distribution and carbon stock of the Saxaul vegetation of the winter-cold deserts of Middle Asia

► We estimate the potential biomass and carbon stock of Saxaul deserts in Middle Asia. ► The above ground biomass ranges mostly between 1.5 t/ha and 3 t/ha. ► The potential above ground carbon stock is 29.4-52.1 million t. ► The potential below ground carbon stock is 22-81.4 million t. ► Today, only 11%-28% of the biomass of the potential Saxaul deserts have remained.