[Objective] Analysis of the characteristics of runoff and sediment yield under different rainfall patterns

and its responses under different vegetation cover types and vegetation coverage was conducted to provide a theoretical basis for studying the dynamic characteristics of runoff and sediment yield of yellow soil slopes in karst areas.[Methods] Based on field measurements from 2014-2018 in Yangjichong watershed (Longli County

Qiannan Prefecture

Guizhou Province)

and based on the K-means classification method

the rainfall types in the study area were divided into four categories

and the correlation analysis

regression model

and exponential function analysis of each indicator were carried out.[Results] Different rainfall types had diverse effects on sediment yield in the study area

and significant differences existed between rainfall characteristics on sediment yield under different vegetation cover types. The A-type rainfall pattern (low-frequency rainfall events with extremely high intensity

extremely high amounts and medium duration) was more likely to cause erosion. There was significant correlation between runoff yield and sediment yield on slopes

soil and water conservation effect in an economic fruit forest. The B-type rainfall (high-frequency rainfall events with high intensity

medium amounts and short duration) was the main rainfall type in this region. Among the four rainfall types

the soil and water conservation effect of mixed forest was the best

compared with other vegetation cover types. Sediment yield was positively correlated with rainfall intensity and runoff depth

and negatively correlated with vegetation coverage. The sediment yield was strongly influenced by runoff depth

followed by average rainfall intensity and vegetation coverage. When vegetation coverage reached about 80%

the reduction effect on runoff and sediment was stable.[Conclusion] Under certain rainfall

vegetation is the key factor affecting slope sediment yield. For a slope of yellow soil in karst areas

increasing surface coverage is not only the basis for reducing sediment yield

but also an important measure to prevent soil erosion.