Objective This study explores the spatiotemporal evolution patterns of ecosystem services in the desert steppe region of Ningxia, along with their trade-off relationships and influencing factors, to provide a scientific basis for the management of regional ecosystems and for the construction of a pilot zone for ecological protection and high-quality development in the Yellow River Basin. Methods Taking the desert steppe region of Ningxia as an example, and based on quantified ecosystem services from 1990 to 2020, the root mean square error was used to calculate the strength of ecosystem service trade-offs, and the geodetector and geographically and temporally weighted regression models were used to reveal the spatiotemporal differentiation characteristics of key influencing factors. Results (1) From 1990 to 2020, carbon storage, habitat quality, and soil conservation services in the desert steppe region of Ningxia increased by 0.84%, 2.73%, and 34.96%, respectively, while other ecosystem services decreased to different degrees. (2) The ecosystem service trade-off intensity showed a fluctuating trend characterized by an initial rise followed by a decline, with an increase of about 2.23%, and the spatial distribution was mainly dominated by areas with relatively high levels. (3) Natural factors had a much greater influence on ecosystem services in the desert steppe region than socio-economic factors, but the degree of their influence weakened, while the interaction between natural factors and socio-economic factors significantly enhanced the spatial differentiation of ecosystem services. Conclusion Under the influence of natural and socio-economic factors, the ecosystem service supply capacity of the desert steppe region is relatively low and the trade-off intensity is high. In the future, continuous efforts should be made to promote grassland ecological protection and restoration projects, and to coordinate the systematic management of mountains, rivers, forests, farmlands, lakes, grasslands, and deserts, thereby improving the ecological functions of grassland and its stability.
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