Variation of precipitation and its effect on phytomass production and consumption by livestock and large wild herbivores along an altitudinal gradient during a drought, South Gobi, Mongolia

Thus, while the use of the mountain steppes as reserves during drought is an opportunistic strategy employed by nomadic herders in a highly variable semi-arid ecosystem, it may interfere with nature conservation efforts for argali. Protection is especially needed during times of stress, while during years of abundant forage the potential for conflict is much lower. Furthermore, the problem may increase under changing climatic conditions.