Iuzhno-Chuia

a mountain range in the Central Altai, at the divide between the Chuia and Argut rivers. The range is 120 km long and reaches a maximum elevation of 3,960 m at Mount Irbistu. Alpine-type relief predominates. There are valley glaciers along the upper courses of the rivers. The lower parts of the slopes have steppe landscapes; tundras, meadows, and rock streams occur in the high mountain belt. Forests are found chiefly on the northern slopes and in the river valleys.