sihikud

Sihikud is a term referring to a type of alpine steppe in Central Eurasia, particularly in modern-day Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Xinjiang, China. The term is derived from the Kazakh word "sïhïkûd," meaning "moderately wet meadow" or "dry steppe with rare wet spots".

Characterized by a mix of grasses and low-growing shrubs, the sihikud biome is a semi-arid to sub-humid region, often with limited tree cover. The terrain is typically rolling or undulating, with patches of stony or sandy soil. Sihikud ecosystems support a range of flora and fauna adapted to the region's harsh climate, including forbs, grasses, and various animal species. These may include Argali, Terek ibex, and snow leopards, among others.

Sihikud areas often receive significant precipitation in the form of snow, often accounting for a substantial portion of annual precipitation. Plant growth and regeneration are frequently tied to the timing and distribution of snowmelt. The interface between sihikud, montane, and alpine zones can support a rich and diverse array of habitats, influenced by local geological features, atmospheric influences, and moisture patterns.

Due to ongoing environmental changes and extended human activity, the integrity and biodiversity of sihikud ecosystems are under pressure. Research into the biota, ecology, and implications of perturbations of sihikud are the subject of interest from various scientific disciplines.