Dali is defined by the linked mountain-and-lake system of Cangshan and Erhai. The nineteen Cangshan peaks rise from south to north, carrying a clear vertical sequence—subtropical broadleaf forest, mixed temperate conifers and hardwoods, then alpine fir-and-rhododendron forest toward the summits. Erhai, a fault-formed highland freshwater lake, sustains wetlands, Ottelia acuminata (haihuehua) and endemic fish such as Dali schizothoracin. Across the prefecture, forests, meadows, wetlands and dry-hot valleys support thousands of higher plants, hundreds of terrestrial wild animals and especially rich birdlife, under a mild highland climate averaging about 15°C year-round. Hydropower, geothermal springs, marble and medicinal herbs add further depth, making the natural base of Zizai Dali both livable and deeply rooted in local Bai life.