The dynamic response of lakes in the Tuohepingco Basin of the Tibetan Plateau to climate change

摘要: The Tibetan Plateau (TP) is particularly sensitive to the influences of climate change. As indicators change, lakes on TP play a key role in Earth’s climatic system. Lake Yazi (LY), Tuohepingco (LT) and Changtiao (LC) Basin are three inland plateau. extents LY, LT LC were obtained using object-based image analysis for remote sensing 22 images from Landsat satellites (from September December between 1972 2015). Inter-annual changes extent then analyzed. results show that total area underwent change shrinkage expansion 2015. In general, there was trend toward during 1972–1999, distinct 2000–2007 slight 2008–2015. Moreover, we found 14 other have also expanded dramatically since 2000. Lakes at 30°N 35°N (LY, located this region) exhibited same dramatic period 2000 2005. words, appears be critical transition point lake size TP. latitudes interior may similar after warming-triggered deglaciation or permafrost degradation, increased precipitation decreased evapotranspiration influencing factors Basin. Temperature showed relatively higher correlation with extent, while evaporation slightly correlated area. Given importance wetlands human society, these no trivial issues, now need accelerated research based long-term continuous sensing.