Abstract: Geomorphologic system of landslide consists of three interactive and inseparable subsystems: body in the upstream of landslide, landslide, and body in the downstream of landslide. The evolution of the geomorphologic system of landslide is characterized by integrality, hierarchy, openness and dynamics. In addition to the status quo of landslide, the change trend of landslide should also be considered in landslide study. The characters of the body behind landslide and body in front of landslide and their changes with time should be studied. Moreover, the changes of upstream subsystem and downstream subsystem, particularly, the stability of the landslide body affected by both input of mass from the upstream into the landslide body and changes in downstream geomorphic features should be emphasized. Take the Three Gorges area as an example, in the light of the characteristics of landslide system, landslide treatment should be guided by earth system science in line with the principles of integrality, hierarchy, openness and dynamics. A management strategy which includes “a combination of dredging and blocking”, “focusing on the whole system while regulating separately” is put forward.

Key words: geomorphologic system of landslide, geomorphic processes, landslide control strategy, earth system sciences, Three Gorges Reservoir area