Land | Special Issue : Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability

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19 pages, 4417 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Wildfire Effects on Rangeland Health in Three Thermo-Mediterranean Vegetation Types in a Small Islet of Eastern Aegean Sea

by Zoi M. Parissi, Apostolos P. Kyriazopoulos, Theodora Apostolia Drakopoulou, Georgios Korakis and Eleni M. Abraham

Land 2023, 12(7), 1413; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12071413 - 14 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1724

Abstract

Sclerophyllous scrub formations, the main vegetation type in many islands of the Aegean area, provide many goods and services to humans, such as biodiversity, soil protection, and forage for livestock and wildlife. Dominant shrub species of sclerophyllous formations are well adapted to dry [...] Read more.

Sclerophyllous scrub formations, the main vegetation type in many islands of the Aegean area, provide many goods and services to humans, such as biodiversity, soil protection, and forage for livestock and wildlife. Dominant shrub species of sclerophyllous formations are well adapted to dry season conditions due to various anatomical and physiological mechanisms. As a result, their biomass acts as very flammable, fine fuel, and consequently, wildfires are very common in these ecosystems. Wildfire effects on vegetation and biodiversity in the Mediterranean basin have been studied, and the results are diverse, depending mainly on the vegetation type and frequency of fires. Additionally, post-fire vegetation establishment and structure are critical factors for the implementation of grazing management. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of wildfire on species composition, floristic diversity, forage quality, and rangeland health indices related to ecosystem stability and function in three thermo-Mediterranean vegetation types: (1) Sarcopoterium spinosum low formations, (2) low formations of Cistus creticus, and (3) low formations of Cistus creticus in abandoned terraces. The research was conducted on the Oinousses islet, which is located northeast of Chios Island, in May 2013 (one year after the fire). Vegetation sampling was performed along five transects placed in recently burned and adjacent unburned sites of each vegetation type. The plant cover was measured, while the floristic composition, diversity, evenness, and dominance indices were determined for the vegetation data. Additionally, the forage quality was determined in terms of crude protein (CP) and fiber content. The vegetation cover was significantly lower, and the floristic diversity was significantly higher in burned areas in comparison to those in the unburned areas. Woody species, followed by grasses and forbs, dominated in both the burned and unburned areas. However, the percentage of woody species was significantly decreased in the burned areas of Sarcopoterium spinosum and Cistus creticus low formations. On the other hand, the percentage of grasses, forbs, and legumes increased in all cases except in Cistus creticus terraces. The lowest value of the Jaccard Index of similarity between the burned and unburned sites (beta diversity) was observed for Cistus creticus, indicating the effect of fire on the species composition of this vegetation type. The forage quality was found to be improved in all the burned areas, especially in those dominated by Cistus creticus. Finally, fire has a positive impact on the ecosystem’s functions, mainly for Sarcopoterium spinosum low formations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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16 pages, 649 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bee-Friendly Native Seed Mixtures for the Greening of Solar Parks

by Maren Helen Meyer, Sandra Dullau, Pascal Scholz, Markus Andreas Meyer and Sabine Tischew

Land 2023, 12(6), 1265; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12061265 - 20 Jun 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2888

Abstract

Photovoltaics is one of the key technologies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving climate neutrality for Europe by 2050, which has led to the promotion of solar parks. These parks can span up to several hundred hectares, and grassland vegetation is usually [...] Read more.

Photovoltaics is one of the key technologies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving climate neutrality for Europe by 2050, which has led to the promotion of solar parks. These parks can span up to several hundred hectares, and grassland vegetation is usually created between and under the panels. Establishing species-rich grasslands using native seed mixtures can enhance a variety of ecosystem services, including pollination. We present an overall concept for designing native seed mixtures to promote pollinators, especially wild bees, in solar parks. It takes into account the specific site conditions, the small-scale modified conditions caused by the solar panels, and the requirement to avoid panel shading. We highlight the challenges and constraints resulting from the availability of species on the seed market. Furthermore, we provide an easy-to-use index for determining the value of native seed mixtures for wild bee enhancement and apply it as an example to several mixtures specifically designed for solar parks. The increased availability of regional seed would allow a more thorough consideration of pollinator-relevant traits when composing native seed mixtures, thereby enhancing ecosystem services associated with pollinators such as wild bees. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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25 pages, 9252 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Enabling Regenerative Agriculture Using Remote Sensing and Machine Learning

by Michael Gbenga Ogungbuyi, Juan P. Guerschman, Andrew M. Fischer, Richard Azu Crabbe, Caroline Mohammed, Peter Scarth, Phil Tickle, Jason Whitehead and Matthew Tom Harrison

Land 2023, 12(6), 1142; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12061142 - 29 May 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3115

Abstract

The emergence of cloud computing, big data analytics, and machine learning has catalysed the use of remote sensing technologies to enable more timely management of sustainability indicators, given the uncertainty of future climate conditions. Here, we examine the potential of “regenerative agriculture”, as [...] Read more.

The emergence of cloud computing, big data analytics, and machine learning has catalysed the use of remote sensing technologies to enable more timely management of sustainability indicators, given the uncertainty of future climate conditions. Here, we examine the potential of “regenerative agriculture”, as an adaptive grazing management strategy to minimise bare ground exposure while improving pasture productivity. High-intensity sheep grazing treatments were conducted in small fields (less than 1 ha) for short durations (typically less than 1 day). Paddocks were subsequently spelled to allow pasture biomass recovery (treatments comprising 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 months), with each compared with controls characterised by lighter stocking rates for longer periods (2000 DSE/ha). Pastures were composed of wallaby grass (Austrodanthonia species), kangaroo grass (Themeda triandra), Phalaris (Phalaris aquatica), and cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata), and were destructively sampled to estimate total standing dry matter (TSDM), standing green biomass, standing dry biomass and trampled biomass. We invoked a machine learning model forced with Sentinel-2 imagery to quantify TSDM, standing green and dry biomass. Faced with La Nina conditions, regenerative grazing did not significantly impact pasture productivity, with all treatments showing similar TSDM, green biomass and recovery. However, regenerative treatments significantly impacted litterfall and trampled material, with high-intensity grazing treatments trampling more biomass, increasing litter, enhancing surface organic matter and decomposition rates thereof. Pasture digestibility and sward uniformity were greatest for treatments with minimal spelling (3 months), whereas both standing senescent and trampled material were greater for the 15-month spelling treatment. TSDM prognostics from machine learning were lower than measured TSDM, although predictions from the machine learning approach closely matched observed spatiotemporal variability within and across treatments. The root mean square error between the measured and modelled TSDM was 903 kg DM/ha, which was less than the variability measured in the field. We conclude that regenerative grazing with short recovery periods (3–6 months) was more conducive to increasing pasture production under high rainfall conditions, and we speculate that – in this environment - high-intensity grazing with 3-month spelling is likely to improve soil organic carbon through increased litterfall and trampling. Our study paves the way for using machine learning with satellite imagery to quantify pasture biomass at small scales, enabling the management of pastures within small fields from afar. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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27 pages, 2896 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Species Enriched Grass–Clover Pastures Show Distinct Carabid Assemblages and Enhance Endangered Species of Carabid Beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) Compared to Continuous Maize

by Henriette Beye, Friedhelm Taube, Tobias W. Donath, Jan Schulz, Mario Hasler and Tim Diekötter

Land 2023, 12(4), 736; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12040736 - 24 Mar 2023

Viewed by 1917

Abstract

There is an urgent global need for the ecological intensification of agricultural systems to reduce negative impacts on the environment while meeting the rising demand for agricultural products. Enriching grasslands with floral species is a tool to promote diversity and the associated services [...] Read more.

There is an urgent global need for the ecological intensification of agricultural systems to reduce negative impacts on the environment while meeting the rising demand for agricultural products. Enriching grasslands with floral species is a tool to promote diversity and the associated services at higher trophic levels, and ultimately, to enhance the agricultural landscape matrix. Here, we studied an organic pastures-based dairy production system with plant species enhanced grass–clover pastures with respect to the effect on the activity density, functional traits, carabid assemblages, and species richness of carabid beetles. To understand the effect of land management on carabid beetles, we studied two types of grass–clover pastures with low and relatively high plant diversities in an integrated crop–livestock rotational grazing system (ICLS). As a comparison, organic permanent grasslands and conventionally managed maize were studied. We installed pitfall traps for three weeks in early summer, and for two weeks in autumn. In total, 11,347 carabid beetles of 66 species were caught. Grass–clover pastures did not differ in activity density, functional traits, habitat guilds, or species richness, but conventional maize did show a higher activity density in autumn and a higher proportion of eurytopic species and mobile species compared to grass–clover pastures. On grass–clover pastures, we found more endangered species, Carabus beetles, and a distinct carabid assemblage compared to maize. However, we attribute the lack of an effect of increased plant diversity of the grass–clover pastures on carabid species richness and functional traits to the intensive grazing regime, which resulted in the compositional and structural homogeneity of vegetation. Still, the presence of specialized and endangered species indicated the potential for organically managed grass–clover pastures to promote dispersal through an otherwise depleted and fragmented agricultural landscape. By increasing crop diversity in ICLS, more resources for foraging and nesting are created; therefore, organically managed grass–clover pastures add to the multi-functionality of agricultural landscapes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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17 pages, 5412 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Early Evidence That Soil Dryness Causes Widespread Decline in Grassland Productivity in China

by Panxing He, Yiyan Zeng, Ningfei Wang, Zhiming Han, Xiaoyu Meng, Tong Dong, Xiaoliang Ma, Shangqian Ma, Jun Ma and Zongjiu Sun

Land 2023, 12(2), 484; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12020484 - 15 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2115

Abstract

The burning of fossil fuels by humans emits large amounts of CO₂ into the atmosphere and strongly affects the Earth’s carbon balance, with grassland ecosystems changing from weak carbon sinks that were previously close to equilibrium to core carbon sinks. Chinese grasslands [...] Read more.

The burning of fossil fuels by humans emits large amounts of CO₂ into the atmosphere and strongly affects the Earth’s carbon balance, with grassland ecosystems changing from weak carbon sinks that were previously close to equilibrium to core carbon sinks. Chinese grasslands are located in typical arid–semi-arid and semi-arid climatic regions, and drought events in the soil and atmosphere can have strong and irreversible consequences on the function and structure of Chinese grassland ecosystems. Based on this, we investigated the response of the gross primary production (GPP) of Chinese grasslands to land–atmosphere moisture constraints, using GPP data simulated through four terrestrial ecosystem models and introduced copula functions and Bayesian equations. The main results were as follows: (1) Soil moisture trends were not significant, and changes were dominated by interannual variability. The detrended warm-season SM correlated with GPP at 0.48 and 0.63 for the historical and future periods, respectively; thus, soil moisture is the critical water stress that regulates interannual variability in Chinese grassland GPP. (2) The positive correlation between shallow SM (0–50 cm) and GPP was higher (r = 0.62). Shallow-soil moisture is the main soil layer that constrains GPP, and the soil moisture decrease in shallow layers is much more likely to cause GPP decline in Chinese grasslands than that in deep-soil water. (3) The probability of GPP decline in Chinese grasslands caused by drought in shallow soils of 0–20 and 20–50 cm is 32.49% and 27.64%, respectively, which is much higher than the probability of GPP decline in deeper soils. In particular, soil drought was more detrimental to grassland GPP in Xinjiang and the Loess Plateau. (4) The probability of soil drought causing GPP decline was higher than that of atmospheric drought during the historical period (1.78–8.19%), but the probability of an atmospheric drought-induced GPP deficit increases significantly in the future and becomes a key factor inhibiting GPP accumulation in some regions (e.g., the Loess Plateau). Our study highlighted the response of grassland ecosystems after the occurrence of soil drought, especially for the shallow-soil-water indicator, which provides important theoretical references for grassland drought disaster emergency prevention and policy formulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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22 pages, 9558 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Opportunities for Adaptation to Climate Change of Extensively Grazed Pastures in the Central Apennines (Italy)

by Edoardo Bellini, Raphaël Martin, Giovanni Argenti, Nicolina Staglianò, Sergi Costafreda-Aumedes, Camilla Dibari, Marco Moriondo and Gianni Bellocchi

Land 2023, 12(2), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12020351 - 28 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2904

Abstract

Future climate change is expected to significantly alter the growth of vegetation in grassland systems, in terms of length of the growing season, forage production, and climate-altering gas emissions. The main objective of this work was, therefore, to simulate the future impacts of [...] Read more.

Future climate change is expected to significantly alter the growth of vegetation in grassland systems, in terms of length of the growing season, forage production, and climate-altering gas emissions. The main objective of this work was, therefore, to simulate the future impacts of foreseen climate change in the context of two pastoral systems in the central Italian Apennines and test different adaptation strategies to cope with these changes. The PaSim simulation model was, therefore, used for this purpose. After calibration by comparison with observed data of aboveground biomass (AGB) and leaf area index (LAI), simulations were able to produce various future outputs, such as length of growing season, AGB, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, for two time windows (i.e., 2011–2040 and 2041–2070) using 14 global climate models (GCMs) for the generation of future climate data, according to RCP (Representative Concentration Pathways) 4.5 and 8.5 scenarios under business-as-usual management (BaU). As a result of increasing temperatures, the fertilizing effect of CO₂, and a similar trend in water content between present and future, simulations showed a lengthening of the season (i.e., mean increase: +8.5 and 14 days under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, respectively, for the period 2011–2040, +19 and 31.5 days under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, respectively, for the period 2041–2070) and a rise in forage production (i.e., mean biomass peak increase of the two test sites under BaU: +53.7% and 62.75% for RCP4.5. and RCP8.5, respectively, in the 2011–2040 period, +115.3% and 176.9% in RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 in 2041–2070, respectively,). Subsequently, three different alternative management strategies were tested: a 20% rise in animal stocking rate (+20 GI), a 15% increase in grazing length (+15 GL), and a combination of these two management factors (+20 GI × 15 GL). Simulation results on alternative management strategies suggest that the favorable conditions for forage production could support the increase in animal stocking rate and grazing length of alternative management strategies (i.e., +20 GI, +15 GL, +20 GI × 15 GL). Under future projections, net ecosystem exchange (NEE) and nitrogen oxide (N₂O) emissions decreased, whereas methane (CH₄) rose. The simulated GHG future changes varied in magnitude according to the different adaptation strategies tested. The development and assessment of adaptation strategies for extensive pastures of the Central Apennines provide a basis for appropriate agricultural policy and optimal land management in response to the ongoing climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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18 pages, 5367 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

How Much Complexity Is Required for Modelling Grassland Production at Regional Scales?

by Iris Vogeler, Christof Kluß, Tammo Peters and Friedhelm Taube

Land 2023, 12(2), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12020327 - 25 Jan 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2050

Abstract

Studies evaluating the complexity of models, which are suitable to simulate grass growth at regional scales in intensive grassland production systems are scarce. Therefore, two different grass growth models (GrasProg1.0 and APSIM) with different complexity and input requirements were compared against long-term observations [...] Read more.

Studies evaluating the complexity of models, which are suitable to simulate grass growth at regional scales in intensive grassland production systems are scarce. Therefore, two different grass growth models (GrasProg1.0 and APSIM) with different complexity and input requirements were compared against long-term observations from variety trials with perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) in Germany and Denmark. The trial sites covered a large range of environmental conditions, with annual average temperatures ranging from 5.9 to 10.3 °C, and annual rainfall from 536 to 1154 mm. The sites also varied regarding soil type, which were for modelling categorised into three different groups according to their plant available water (PAW) content: light soils with a PAW of 60 mm, medium soils with a PAW of 80 mm, and heavy soils with a PAW of 100 mm. The objective was to investigate whether the simple model performed equally well with the given low number of inputs, namely climate and PAW group. Evaluation statistics showed that both models provided satisfactory results, with root mean square errors for individual cuts ranging from 0.59 to 1.28 t dry matter ha⁻¹. The model efficiency (Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency) for the separate cuts were also good for both models, with 81% of the sites having a positive Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency value with GrasProg1.0, and 72% with APSIM. These results reveal that without detailed site-specific descriptions, the less complex GrasProg1.0 model can be incorporated into a simple decision support tool for optimising grassland management in intensive livestock production systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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21 pages, 5965 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Current and Potential Future Distribution of Endemic Salvia ceratophylloides Ard. (Lamiaceae)

by Valentina Lucia Astrid Laface, Carmelo Maria Musarella, Gianmarco Tavilla, Agostino Sorgonà, Ana Cano-Ortiz, Ricardo Quinto Canas and Giovanni Spampinato

Land 2023, 12(1), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12010247 - 13 Jan 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2894

Abstract

Human activities and climate change are the main factors causing habitat loss, jeopardising the survival of many species, especially those with limited range, such as endemic species. Recently, species distribution models (SDMs) have been used in conservation biology to assess their extinction risk, [...] Read more.

Human activities and climate change are the main factors causing habitat loss, jeopardising the survival of many species, especially those with limited range, such as endemic species. Recently, species distribution models (SDMs) have been used in conservation biology to assess their extinction risk, environmental dynamics, and potential distribution. This study analyses the potential, current and future distribution range of Salvia ceratophylloides Ard., an endemic perennial species of the Lamiaceae family that occurs exclusively in a limited suburban area of the city of Reggio Calabria (southern Italy). The MaxEnt model was employed to configure the current potential range of the species using bioclimatic and edaphic variables, and to predict the potential suitability of the habitat in relation to two future scenarios (SSP245 and SSP585) for the periods 2021–2040 and 2041–2060. The field survey, which spanned 5 years (2017–2021), involved 17 occurrence points. According to the results of the MaxEnt model, the current potential distribution is 237.321 km², which considering the preferred substrates of the species and land-use constraints is re-estimated to 41.392 km². The model obtained from the SSP245 future scenario shows a decrease in the area suitable for the species of 35% in the 2021–2040 period and 28% in the 2041–2060 period. The SSP585 scenario shows an increase in the range suitable for hosting the species of 167% in the 2021–2040 period and 171% in the 2041–2060 period. Assessing variation in the species distribution related to the impacts of climate change makes it possible to define priority areas for reintroduction and in situ conservation. Identifying areas presumably at risk or, on the contrary, suitable for hosting the species is of paramount importance for management and conservation plans for Salvia ceratophylloides. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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31 pages, 3887 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Superabsorbent Polymer Use in Rangeland Restoration: Glasshouse Trials

by Shannon V. Nelson, Neil C. Hansen, Matthew D. Madsen, Val Jo Anderson, Dennis L. Eggett and Bryan G. Hopkins

Land 2023, 12(1), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12010232 - 11 Jan 2023

Viewed by 2042

Abstract

Post-disturbance rangeland restoration efforts are often thwarted due to soil moisture deficits. Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) absorb hundreds of times their weight in water, increasing soil moisture when the SAP is mixed with soil. The objective of this study was to evaluate banded SAPs [...] Read more.

Post-disturbance rangeland restoration efforts are often thwarted due to soil moisture deficits. Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) absorb hundreds of times their weight in water, increasing soil moisture when the SAP is mixed with soil. The objective of this study was to evaluate banded SAPs under the soil surface to increase plant available water and thus seedling establishment for perennial rangeland species during restoration efforts. Five glasshouse experiments with two rangeland perennial grass species, bottlebrush squirreltail (Elymus elymoides) or Siberian wheatgrass (Agropyron fragile), were conducted. Treatments varied, including SAP rates ranging from 11–3000 kg ha⁻¹ with placement mostly banded at depths extending from the surface up to a 15 cm depth. Generally, SAPs increased soil moisture at all rates and depths for up to 49 days. However, rates ≥ 750 kg ha⁻¹ caused the soil to swell and crack, potentially hastening soil drying later in the season. Seedling longevity was increased up to 12 days, especially at the high SAP band rate of 3000 kg ha⁻¹ when the band was 8 or 15 cm deep. Further work is needed to verify banded SAP rates and placement depths in the field, ascertain conditions to reduce soil displacement, and evaluate benefits across species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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25 pages, 5838 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Improving Biodiversity Offset Schemes through the Identification of Ecosystem Services at a Landscape Level

by Annaêl Barnes, Alexandre Ickowicz, Jean-Daniel Cesaro, Paulo Salgado, Véronique Rayot, Sholpan Koldasbekova and Simon Taugourdeau

Land 2023, 12(1), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12010202 - 8 Jan 2023

Viewed by 2791

Abstract

Biodiversity offsets aim to compensate the negative residual impacts of development projects on biodiversity, including ecosystem functions, uses by people and cultural values. Conceptually, ecosystem services (ES) should be considered, but in practice this integration rarely occurs. Their consideration would improve the societal [...] Read more.

Biodiversity offsets aim to compensate the negative residual impacts of development projects on biodiversity, including ecosystem functions, uses by people and cultural values. Conceptually, ecosystem services (ES) should be considered, but in practice this integration rarely occurs. Their consideration would improve the societal impact of biodiversity offsets. However, the prioritisation of ES in a given area is still limited. We developed a framework for this purpose, applied in rangelands landscapes in Kazakhstan, in the context of uranium mining. We assumed that different landscapes provide different ES, and that stakeholders perceive ES according to their category (e.g., elders and herders) and gender. We performed qualitative, semi-structured interviews with a range of stakeholders. Using the Common International Classification of Ecosystem Services, we identified 300 ES in 31 classes across 8 landscape units. We produced a systemic representation of the provision of ES across the landscapes. We showed a significant link between ES and landscape units, but not between ES and stakeholder categories or gender. Stakeholders mostly identified ES according to the location of their villages. Therefore, we suggest that the biodiversity offsets should target ES provided by the landscape unit where mining activities occur and would be most interesting in the landscapes common to all villages. By performing a systemic representation, potential impacts of some offset strategies can be predicted. The framework was therefore effective in determining a bundle of ES at a landscape scale, and in prioritising them for future biodiversity offset plans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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14 pages, 1053 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Temporal Assessment of Remotely Sensed Autumn Grass Senescence across Climatic and Topographic Gradients

by Lwando Royimani, Onisimo Mutanga, John Odindi and Rob Slotow

Land 2023, 12(1), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12010183 - 6 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1910

Abstract

Climate and topography are influential variables in the autumn senescence of grassland ecosystems. For instance, extreme weather can lead to earlier or later senescence than normal, while higher altitudes often favor early grass senescence. However, to date, there is no comprehensive understanding of [...] Read more.

Climate and topography are influential variables in the autumn senescence of grassland ecosystems. For instance, extreme weather can lead to earlier or later senescence than normal, while higher altitudes often favor early grass senescence. However, to date, there is no comprehensive understanding of key remote-sensing-derived environmental variables that influence the occurrence of autumn grassland senescence, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Meanwhile, knowledge of the relationship between autumn grass senescence and environmental variables is required to aid the formulation of optimal rangeland management practices. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the spatial autocorrelations between remotely sensed autumn grass senescence vis-a-vis climatic and topographic variables in the subtropical grasslands. Sentinel 2′s Normalized Difference NIR/Rededge Normalized Difference Red-Edge (NDRE) and the Chlorophyll Red-Edge (Chlred-edge) indices were used as best proxies to explain the occurrence of autumn grassland senescence, while monthly (i.e., March to June) estimates of the remotely sensed autumn grass senescence were examined against their corresponding climatic and topographic factors using the Partial Least Square Regression (PLSR), the Multiple Linear Regression (MLR), the Classification and Regression Trees (CART), and the Random Forest Regression (RFR) models. The RFR model displayed a superior performance on both proxies (i.e., RMSEs of 0.017, 0.012, 0.056, and 0.013, as well as R²s of 0.69, 0.71, 0.56, and 0.71 for the NDRE, with RMSEs and R²s 0.023, 0.018, 0.014 and 0.056, as well as 0.59, 0.60, 0.69, and 0.72 for the Chlred-edge in March, April, May, and June, respectively). Next, the mean monthly values of the remotely sensed autumn grass senescence were separately tested for significance against the average monthly climatic (i.e., minimum (T_min) and maximum (T_max) air temperatures, rainfall, soil moisture, and solar radiation) and topographic (i.e., slope, aspect, and elevation) factors to define the environmental drivers of autumn grassland senescence. Overall, the results indicated that T_max (p = 0.000 and 0.005 for the NDRE and the Chlred-edge, respectively), T_min (p = 0.021 and 0.041 for the NDRE and the Chlred-edge, respectively), and the soil moisture (p = 0.031 and 0.040 for the NDRE and the Chlred-edge, respectively) were the most influential autumn grass senescence drivers. Overall, these results have shown the role of remote sensing techniques in assessing autumn grassland senescence along climatic and topographic gradients as well as in determining key environmental drivers of this senescence in the study area Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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14 pages, 1829 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Topographic Perspective on the Propensity for Degradation of Plateau Swampy Meadows in Maduo County, West China

by Xilai Li, Jing Zhang and Jay Gao

Land 2023, 12(1), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12010080 - 27 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1569

Abstract

The swampy meadows atop the vast Qinghai–Tibet Plateau in West China fall into alpine, pediment, valley, floodplain, terrace, lacustrine, and riverine types according to their hydro-geomorphic properties. They have suffered degradation to various levels of severity due to climate change and external disturbance. [...] Read more.

The swampy meadows atop the vast Qinghai–Tibet Plateau in West China fall into alpine, pediment, valley, floodplain, terrace, lacustrine, and riverine types according to their hydro-geomorphic properties. They have suffered degradation to various levels of severity due to climate change and external disturbance. In this paper, we studied the propensity of these types of swampy meadows to degrade from the topographic perspective. Evaluated against four degradation indicators of vegetation, hydrology, soil erosion, and pika (Ochotona curzoniae) damage, degradation severity at 106 swampy meadows representing all types of wetlands was graded to one of four levels, from which the field-based propensity to degrade (PtD) index value was derived. Judged against this index, terrace and alpine swampy meadows are the most prone to degradation while valley, lacustrine, and riverine swampy meadows are the least. The index value of a given swampy meadow type bears a close relationship (R² = 0.916) with its rate of change during 1990–2013, which confirms the validity of the proposed index in predicting the propensity of swampy meadows to change. The observed differential PtD of different types of swampy meadows is attributed primarily to elevation (R² = 0.746; p = 0.027) and, secondarily, to surface morphology (R² = 0.696; p = 0.039). Thus, the elevation at which a swampy meadow is situated is a more important factor to its PtD than its surface morphology. In particular, swampy meadows located at a higher elevation with a convex surface are much more prone to degradation than those at a lower elevation of a concave slope. Such findings can guide the proper management of different types of swampy meadows to achieve sustainable animal husbandry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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10 pages, 1339 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Potential of Forage Grasses in Phytoremediation of Lead through Production of Phytoliths in Contaminated Soils

by Múcio Magno de Melo Farnezi, Enilson de Barros Silva, Lauana Lopes dos Santos, Alexandre Christofaro Silva, Paulo Henrique Grazziotti, Luís Reynaldo Ferracciú Alleoni, Wesley Costa Silva, Angela Aparecida Santos, Flávio Antônio Fernandes Alves, Iracema Raquel Santos Bezerra and Li Chaves Miranda

Land 2023, 12(1), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12010062 - 26 Dec 2022

Viewed by 1635

Abstract

Phytoremediation has become a promising technique for cleaning Pb-contaminated soils. Grasses have a phytoextractor potential for extracting metal from soil by transporting it and accumulating it in high concentrations in their shoots, and they have the ability to immobilize and inactivate it via [...] Read more.

Phytoremediation has become a promising technique for cleaning Pb-contaminated soils. Grasses have a phytoextractor potential for extracting metal from soil by transporting it and accumulating it in high concentrations in their shoots, and they have the ability to immobilize and inactivate it via phytoliths. The objective of this work was to evaluate the phytoremediation potential of forage grasses through the production of phytoliths and the occlusion of Pb in the phytoliths cultivated in Pb-contaminated soils. Three greenhouse experiments were conducted in a completely randomized design, separated by soil type (Typical Hapludox, Xanthic Hapludox and Rhodic Hapludox), in a 3 × 4 factorial scheme consisting of three forage grasses (Megathyrsus maximus, Urochloa brizantha and Urochloa decumbens) and four Pb rates (0, 45, 90 and 270 mg kg⁻¹) with four repetitions. The forage grasses were influenced by increases in the Pb concentrations in the soils. The higher Pb availability in Typic Quartzipsamment promoted Pb toxicity, as indicated by the reduced dry weights of the shoots, increased phytolith production in the shoots, increased Pb in the shoots and Pb occlusion in the phytoliths of the forage grasses. The production and Pb capture in the phytoliths in the grasses in the Pb-contaminated soils were related to the genetic and physiological differences in the forage grasses and the Pb availability in the soils. Urochloa brizantha was the most tolerant forage to the excess Pb, with a higher production of phytoliths and higher Pb occlusion in the phytoliths, making it a forage grass that can be used in the future for the phytoremediation of Pb-contaminated soils. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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11 pages, 1902 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Seasonal Trap Abundance of Two Species of Psilochalcis Kieffer (Hymenoptera: Chalcididae) in Rangelands of the Eastern Great Basin of Utah, USA

by Mark J. Petersen, Val J. Anderson, Robert L. Johnson and Dennis L. Eggett

Land 2023, 12(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12010054 - 25 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1670

Abstract

Two species of Psilochalcis (Hymenoptera: Chalcididae) wasps occurring in the Great Basin region of the western United States were sampled from three locations in central Utah (USA) over a two-year period using Malaise traps. Each location is composed of four contiguous habitat types: [...] Read more.

Two species of Psilochalcis (Hymenoptera: Chalcididae) wasps occurring in the Great Basin region of the western United States were sampled from three locations in central Utah (USA) over a two-year period using Malaise traps. Each location is composed of four contiguous habitat types: pinyon/juniper (Pinus edulis or P. monophylla and Juniperus osteosperma), sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata), cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum), and crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum). Seasonal trap abundance for each Psilochalcis species was determined. Psilochalcis minuta Petersen and Psilochalcis quadratis Petersen occur in highest abundance from mid-May to early August. Psilochalcis minuta demonstrates a significant association with pinyon/juniper habitat, specifically at the Utah; Juab County, Yuba Valley sample site, whereas P. quadratis demonstrates a significant association with cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) habitat at the same location. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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12 pages, 824 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ecological Niche Modelling and Potential Distribution of Artemisia sieberi in the Iranian Steppe Vegetation

by Hamidreza Mirdavoudi, Darush Ghorbanian, Sedigheh Zarekia, Javad Miri Soleiman, Mashaalaah Ghonchepur, Eileen Mac Sweeney and Andrea Mastinu

Land 2022, 11(12), 2315; https://doi.org/10.3390/land11122315 - 16 Dec 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2097

Abstract

Artemisia sieberi Besser occurs in many parts of the Irano-Turanian floristic region, which is mostly distributed throughout the Iranian plateau, especially in Iran. This study aimed to identify the effect of the soil and topography variables on A. sieberi distribution. We used canopy [...] Read more.

Artemisia sieberi Besser occurs in many parts of the Irano-Turanian floristic region, which is mostly distributed throughout the Iranian plateau, especially in Iran. This study aimed to identify the effect of the soil and topography variables on A. sieberi distribution. We used canopy cover data to fit models using generalized additive models (GAMs). The results showed that the response pattern of A. sieberi along with the gradient of soil clay, soil saturation moisture, soil nitrogen and soil acidity followed the monotonic increase model, and its canopy cover percentage augmented by increasing the values of the factors. Conversely, the A. sieberi canopy cover percentage decreased by increasing the amount of soil sand, bare soil and the geographic aspect. The A. sieberi responses are in contrast to the niche theory. The relationship between the species response pattern and the gradients of soil silt, soil salinity, lime percentage, organic carbon, altitude, land slope, litter, gravel percentage, stone percentage, mean annual precipitation and mean annual temperature followed a unimodal model (consistent with the niche theory). The optimal growth limits for these factors were 32%, 1.75 ds/m, 35%, 1.3%, 2000 m, 43%, 10%, 32%, 250 mm and 15 °C, respectively. Our results highlight that environmental factors, such as soil texture, amount of soil lime, mean annual precipitation, altitude and land slope, had quantifiable effects on the performance of A. sieberi. Our findings could provide useful information for improvement, restoration and conservation programs. However, a further comprehension of the species–environment relationship is needed to predict the effects of climate change on the species habitat. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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15 pages, 1234 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Valuing Ecosystem Services Provided by Pasture-Based Beef Farms in Alentejo, Portugal

by Manuel P. dos Santos, Tiago G. Morais, Tiago Domingos and Ricardo F. M. Teixeira

Land 2022, 11(12), 2238; https://doi.org/10.3390/land11122238 - 8 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2045

Abstract

This work aims to measure and value the ecosystem services of grasslands and croplands covered by pasture-based beef farms in Alentejo. It combines pixel-level data from the Portuguese Mapping and Assessment of Ecosystem Services study and farm-level data from 40 farms. Five ecosystem [...] Read more.

This work aims to measure and value the ecosystem services of grasslands and croplands covered by pasture-based beef farms in Alentejo. It combines pixel-level data from the Portuguese Mapping and Assessment of Ecosystem Services study and farm-level data from 40 farms. Five ecosystem services were considered: soil protection, carbon sequestration, support to extensive animal production, plant food production and fiber production. Two different approaches for service quantification were used: an “average class” method and a “buffer” approach. Double counting issues were avoided by applying a specific methodology developed for this study. The results obtained were similar for both approaches in the case of grasslands, with an average value between 146 and 176 €/ha/year. For croplands, the average service value oscillated between 40 and 166 €/ha/year. Soil protection was the most valuable service, with over 90% of the total value. Extrapolating these results for the entire region, the five ecosystem services were estimated to be worth between 173 M€ (class method) and 223 M€ (buffer approach). These results suggest that pasture-based beef farms in Alentejo help to provide a significant number of ecosystem services with positive environmental effects that are currently not remunerated by the market. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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22 pages, 3088 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identifying the Spatiotemporal Transitions and Future Development of a Grazed Mediterranean Landscape of South Greece

by Dimitrios Chouvardas, Maria Karatassiou, Afroditi Stergiou and Garyfallia Chrysanthopoulou

Land 2022, 11(12), 2141; https://doi.org/10.3390/land11122141 - 28 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2058

Abstract

Spatiotemporal changes over previous decades in grazed Mediterranean landscapes have taken the form of woody plant encroachment in open areas (e.g., grasslands, open shrublands, silvopastoral areas), altering its structure and diversity. Demographic and socioeconomic changes have played a significant role in landscape transformations, [...] Read more.

Spatiotemporal changes over previous decades in grazed Mediterranean landscapes have taken the form of woody plant encroachment in open areas (e.g., grasslands, open shrublands, silvopastoral areas), altering its structure and diversity. Demographic and socioeconomic changes have played a significant role in landscape transformations, mainly by causing the abandonment of traditional management practices such as pastoral activities, wood harvesting, and agricultural practices in marginal lands. This study aimed to quantify and evaluate the spatiotemporal changes in a typical grazed Mediterranean landscape of Mount Zireia during 1945–2020, and to investigate the effect of these changes on the future development (2020–2040) of land use/land cover (LULC) types. Cartographic materials such as aerial orthophotos from 1945, land use maps of 1960, Corine Land Cover of 2018, and recent satellite images were processed with ArcGIS software. To estimate the future projection trends of LULC types, logistic regression analyses were considered in the framework of CLUE modeling. The results indicated that the strongest trend of spatiotemporal changes were forest expansion in open areas, and grasslands reduction, suggesting that the LULC types that were mainly affected were forest, grasslands, and silvopastoral areas. Future development prediction showed that forests will most probably continue to expand over grassland and silvopastoral areas, holding a high dynamic of expansion into abandoned areas. The reduction in grasslands and silvopastoral areas, independent of environment and biodiversity implications, represents a major threat to sustainable livestock husbandry based on natural grazing resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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13 pages, 1784 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ecosystem Services Provided by Pastoral Husbandry: A Bibliometric Analysis

by Juan Manuel Mancilla-Leytón, Djamila Gribis, Claudio Pozo-Campos, Eduardo Morales-Jerrett, Yolanda Mena, Jesús Cambrollé and Ángel Martín Vicente

Land 2022, 11(11), 2083; https://doi.org/10.3390/land11112083 - 18 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1685

Abstract

The ecosystem services provided by the age-old activity of husbandry are presently declining or seriously endangered. The situation is particularly serious for regulation services and for certain cultural services given their growing dependence on external inputs. This work performs a bibliometric analysis for [...] Read more.

The ecosystem services provided by the age-old activity of husbandry are presently declining or seriously endangered. The situation is particularly serious for regulation services and for certain cultural services given their growing dependence on external inputs. This work performs a bibliometric analysis for the purpose of identifying the certainties and gaps associated with the different ecosystems generated by pastoral husbandry, and confirms the pressing challenges that the livestock industry is facing in the current context of global change. Two different tools, Scopus and VOSviewer, have been implemented to analyze 2230 documents published between 1961 and 2021 that include the terms “grazing” and “service”. The information required for the bibliometric analysis of authorship, country of origin, field of study and number of citations, among other categories, was drawn from the documents to the effect of evidencing their general thematic relationships. Finally, the current state of the ecosystem services currently provided by pastoral husbandry—provisioning, regulation, cultural and support services—was assessed. The results showed a greater abundance of scientific literature on provisioning and regulation services than on cultural and support services. An increase in the number of publications from the beginning of the 21st century was confirmed. The United States stands out as the country with the largest scientific production, and environmental sciences is the most prominent field in the study of ecosystem services. A recent larger academic effort to encourage the promotion of ecosystem services from the institutions has also been observed, as well as to include them as a factor in the development of environmental policies, which is described as the greatest challenge for the future of this discipline. Among other possible solutions, the new European Union agricultural subsidies—the so-called eco-schemes—appear to be essential for that effort to bear fruit as soon as possible. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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13 pages, 1946 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Simulating Soil-Plant-Climate Interactions and Greenhouse Gas Exchange in Boreal Grasslands Using the DNDC Model

by Daniel Forster, Jia Deng, Matthew Tom Harrison and Narasinha Shurpali

Land 2022, 11(11), 1947; https://doi.org/10.3390/land11111947 - 1 Nov 2022

Viewed by 2104

Abstract

With global warming, arable land in boreal regions is tending to expand into high latitude regions in the northern hemisphere. This entails certain risks; such that inappropriate management could result in previously stable carbon sinks becoming sources. Agroecological models are an important tool [...] Read more.

With global warming, arable land in boreal regions is tending to expand into high latitude regions in the northern hemisphere. This entails certain risks; such that inappropriate management could result in previously stable carbon sinks becoming sources. Agroecological models are an important tool for assessing the sustainability of long-term management, yet applications of such models in boreal zones are scarce. We collated eddy-covariance, soil climate and biomass data to evaluate the simulation of GHG emissions from grassland in eastern Finland using the process-based model DNDC. We simulated gross primary production (GPP), net ecosystem exchange (NEE) and ecosystem respiration (Reco) with fair performance. Soil climate, soil temperature and soil moisture at 5 cm were excellent, and soil moisture at 20 cm was good. However, the model overestimated NEE and Reco following crop termination and tillage events. These results indicate that DNDC can satisfactorily simulate GHG fluxes in a boreal grassland setting, but further work is needed, particularly in simulated second biomass cuts, the (>20 cm) soil layers and model response to management transitions between crop types, cultivation, and land use change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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13 pages, 1806 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Effects of Ski-Resort Activities and Transhumance Livestock Grazing on Rangeland Ecosystems of Mountain Zireia, Southern Greece

by Apostolos P. Kyriazopoulos, Maria Karatassiou, Zoi M. Parissi, Eleni M. Abraham and Paraskevi Sklavou

Land 2022, 11(9), 1462; https://doi.org/10.3390/land11091462 - 2 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1896

Abstract

The objective of the present study was to assess the impacts in time of the ski-resort infrastructure and transhumance livestock grazing on floristic composition, diversity, and rangeland health indices related to ecosystem stability and function. The study was carried out at a site [...] Read more.

The objective of the present study was to assess the impacts in time of the ski-resort infrastructure and transhumance livestock grazing on floristic composition, diversity, and rangeland health indices related to ecosystem stability and function. The study was carried out at a site under the pressure of ski resorts and livestock grazing (Ano Trikala) and a site only under the pressure of livestock grazing (Sarantapicho), both located at Mt Zireia, Southern Greece. The plant cover was measured at each site, and the floristic composition was calculated and classified into four functional groups: grasses, legumes, forbs, and woody species. Species richness, ecosystem function and stability landscape indices, diversity indices, and forage value were calculated. According to the results, the development of the ski resort in Ano Trikala had a neglectable negative impact on plant cover (reduced by 5%), while it had a minor impact on species richness and floristic diversity. Livestock grazing had a positive impact on maintaining plant cover in high values. These results suggest that livestock grazing can counterbalance the effects of ski resorts and related activities on plant cover and floristic diversity. Besides the relatively limited effects on the vegetation community, the ski resort significantly negatively impacted landscape composition, function, and stability. Forage value was 25% lower close to the ski resort, mainly due to the significantly lower percentage of legumes. Transhumance livestock grazing should be used as a management tool in ski-resort areas, as it benefits floristic diversity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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Review

Jump to: Research

19 pages, 1721 KiB

Open AccessReview

Grazing as a Management Tool in Mediterranean Pastures: A Meta-Analysis Based on A Literature Review

by Dimitrios Oikonomou, Michael Vrahnakis, Maria Yiakoulaki, Gavriil Xanthopoulos and Yannis Kazoglou

Land 2023, 12(7), 1290; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12071290 - 26 Jun 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2234

Abstract

The present study reviews the impact of mechanical interventions, and controlled burning combined with grazing in the Mediterranean-climate regions (MCRs) of the world. Relevant studies were searched for in the Web of Science database. Additional studies were located in the citations of these [...] Read more.

The present study reviews the impact of mechanical interventions, and controlled burning combined with grazing in the Mediterranean-climate regions (MCRs) of the world. Relevant studies were searched for in the Web of Science database. Additional studies were located in the citations of these publications, and in a local database. Finally, 26 studies were included in this review. Since 1978, several other relevant studies have emerged at a rate of 24% in a 5-year time step. The studies have focused on the effects of combined grazing with other management tools on vegetation structure (18 publications), biomass productivity (16 publications), and floristic diversity (12 publications). The results were analyzed for (a) sites and treatments and (b) effects on plant structure, productivity and floristic diversity. Herbaceous forage increased after a reduction in shrub cover. Shrubs tended to recover in the grazed pastures. Vegetation height was reduced in almost in all cases according to available data. Despite its potential recovery, shrub biomass was affected by grazing in most cases. The impact of subsequent grazing was mixed regarding floristic diversity. Grazing is a useful tool for landscape management in MCRs, but the proper way to combine it with other interventions depends on the management goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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25 pages, 2932 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

Disentangling the Belowground Web of Biotic Interactions in Temperate Coastal Grasslands: From Fundamental Knowledge to Novel Applications

by Gederts Ievinsh

Land 2023, 12(6), 1209; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12061209 - 10 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1958

Abstract

Grasslands represent an essential part of terrestrial ecosystems. In particular, coastal grasslands are dominated by the influence of environmental factors resulting from sea–land interaction. Therefore, coastal grasslands are extremely heterogeneous both spatially and temporally. In this review, recent knowledge in the field of [...] Read more.

Grasslands represent an essential part of terrestrial ecosystems. In particular, coastal grasslands are dominated by the influence of environmental factors resulting from sea–land interaction. Therefore, coastal grasslands are extremely heterogeneous both spatially and temporally. In this review, recent knowledge in the field of biotic interactions in coastal grassland soil is summarized. A detailed analysis of arbuscular mycorrhiza symbiosis, rhizobial symbiosis, plant–parasitic plant interactions, and plant–plant interactions is performed. The role of particular biotic interactions in the functioning of a coastal grassland ecosystem is characterized. Special emphasis is placed on future directions and development of practical applications for sustainable agriculture and environmental restoration. It is concluded that plant biotic interactions in soil are omnipresent and important constituents in different ecosystem services provided by coastal grasslands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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25 pages, 4735 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

System Dynamics Tools to Study Mediterranean Rangeland’s Sustainability

by Jaime Martínez-Valderrama and Javier Ibáñez Puerta

Land 2023, 12(1), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/land12010206 - 9 Jan 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2238

Abstract

Rangelands are a key resource present all over the world and cover half of all emerged lands. They are even more important in drylands, where they cover 48% of the total area. Their intensification and the additional pressure added by climate change push [...] Read more.

Rangelands are a key resource present all over the world and cover half of all emerged lands. They are even more important in drylands, where they cover 48% of the total area. Their intensification and the additional pressure added by climate change push these socio-ecological systems towards desertification. Over the last two decades, we have developed and applied System Dynamics (SD) models for the study of Mediterranean grasslands. In addition, we have designed procedures and analysis tools, such as global sensitivity analysis, stability analysis condition, or risk analysis, to detect the main drivers of these socio-ecological systems and provide indicators about their long-term sustainability. This paper reviews these works, their scientific background, and the most relevant conclusions, including purely technical and rangeland-related ones, as well as our experience as systemic modelers in a world driven by field specialists. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grassland Ecosystem Services: Research Advances and Future Directions for Sustainability)

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