Based on the provided reference, there are twelve deserts listed.
The reference explicitly states, "These twelve deserts are ordered as followings: the Taklimakan Desert, the Gurbantunggut Desert, the Badain Jaran Desert, the Tengger Desert, the Kumtag Desert, the Qaidam Desert, the Kubuqi Desert, the Ulan Buh Desert, the Mu Us Sandy Land, the Hunshandake Sandy Land, the Horqin Sandy Land and the Hulunbuir Sandy Land".
Understanding China's Deserts
China is home to vast arid and semi-arid regions, particularly in its northern and western parts. These areas feature some of the world's largest and most significant deserts and sandy lands. The reference lists a specific set of twelve major areas recognized as deserts or sandy lands within China.
List of the Twelve Deserts Mentioned
According to the reference provided (dated 04-Nov-2021), the twelve deserts are:
- Taklimakan Desert
- Gurbantunggut Desert
- Badain Jaran Desert
- Tengger Desert
- Kumtag Desert
- Qaidam Desert (often refers to the desert area within the Qaidam Basin)
- Kubuqi Desert
- Ulan Buh Desert
- Mu Us Sandy Land (Maowusu)
- Hunshandake Sandy Land
- Horqin Sandy Land
- Hulunbuir Sandy Land
These regions vary significantly in size, characteristics, and the specific challenges they pose, from shifting sands to rocky surfaces. While these twelve are highlighted in the reference, it's worth noting that geographical classifications can sometimes differ slightly regarding the exact number or boundaries of desert areas. However, focusing strictly on the provided reference, the count is twelve.