On the basis of continental composition, principles of partial melting of hydrous mafic rocks, and the published experimental data, the authors discuss the partial melting mechanism of lower continental crust. By comparing the Dabie C-type adakites with experimental melts, the authors provide constraints on the magma source, melting conditions (temperature and pressure), and the melting degree. Overall, the lower continental crust of East China, including the Dabie orogen, is basic to intermediate (50～60 % SiO₂) and slightly hydrous. Thus, fluid-absent dehydration melting of hydrous minerals is a major mechanism for the lower continental crust generating hydrous felsic melts and anhydrous residues.