Changes in soil quality in the critical area of desertification surrounding the Ejina Oasis, Northern China

The critical area around an oasis where desertification occurs determines the ecological security and stability of the oasis. In this study, the soil quality in the critical area of desertification surrounding the Ejina Oasis was evaluated by using a soil quality index (SQI). The soil surface moisture content was related to vegetation cover; it remained high to a distance of 600 m from the oasis, decreased at distances of 600 to 1,700 m, and then gradually increased to a distance of 1,900 m. The sand content and soil bulk density gradually decreased to a distance of 300 m from the oasis; however, the silt and clay contents, soil pH, soil organic matter (SOM), and total and available nutrients increased away from the oasis. From 300 to 1,900 m, the sand content and soil bulk density increased; however, values of other soil properties decreased. Thus, a distance of 300 m from the edge of the oasis represents an obvious demarcation point for soil properties. SOM and the clay content were the key factors that determined soil quality. SQI increased from 0.284 at the edge of the oasis to 0.793 at 300 m, decreased to 0.262 at 1,400 m, and then decreased further to 0.142 at 1,900 m. SQI was lowest at distances of 1,400–1,900 m. The area beyond 300 m from the oasis was most vulnerable to desertification, and is thus the area where desertification control measures should be strengthened.