Part 3/6:
The research team embarked on an extensive survey, assessing approximately 600 kilometers of the Great Wall, particularly in drier climates where the effects of biocrusts would be more pronounced. Contrary to the popular perception of a single wall, the Great Wall comprises a complex network of fortifications, towers, and battlements constructed over centuries to protect China's northern borders.
By examining the construction materials—ranging from clay-rich soil to layers of sand and pebbles—the study emphasizes the adaptability of the Great Wall to various environmental challenges, including those found in arid regions like the Gobi Desert.