1
|
Wang L, Wang Y, Sun D, Wang J, Lee SJ, Viscarra Rossel RA, Gan Y. Soil carbon stocks in temperate grasslands reach equilibrium with grazing duration. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 949:175081. [PMID: 39069182 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Lost soil organic carbon (SOC) in degraded grasslands can be restored via the 'grazing exclusion' practice, but it was unknown how long (# of years) the restoration process can take. A synthesis of four decades of studies revealed that grazing exclusion increased SOC stocks in the topsoil (0-0.30 m) by 14.8 % (±0.8 Std Err), on average, compared to moderate-to-heavy grazing (MtH); During which SOC stock increased steadily, peaked in Year 18.5, and then declined. At peak, SOC stock was 42.5 % greater under grazing exclusion than under MtH due to 100.4 ± 4.2 % increase in aboveground biomass and 80.3 ± 33.5 % increase in root biomass. Grazing exclusion also increased soil C:N ratio by 7.6 % while decreasing bulk density by 9.4 %. Grazing exclusion could be ceased 18.5 years after initiation of grazing exclusion as plant biomass input balances carbon decomposition and SOC equilibrium occurs then additional benefits start diminishing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- College of Life and Environmental Science, State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ecological Treatment Technology of Urban Water Pollution, Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab for Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center for Tideland Reclamation and Ecological Protection, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Yijia Wang
- College of Life and Environmental Science, State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ecological Treatment Technology of Urban Water Pollution, Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab for Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center for Tideland Reclamation and Ecological Protection, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Dandi Sun
- College of Life and Environmental Science, State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ecological Treatment Technology of Urban Water Pollution, Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab for Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center for Tideland Reclamation and Ecological Protection, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Junying Wang
- College of Life and Environmental Science, State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ecological Treatment Technology of Urban Water Pollution, Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab for Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center for Tideland Reclamation and Ecological Protection, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Soon-Jae Lee
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Lausanne CH1015, Switzerland
| | | | - Yantai Gan
- College of Life and Environmental Science, State & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Ecological Treatment Technology of Urban Water Pollution, Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab for Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center for Tideland Reclamation and Ecological Protection, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China; Agroecosystems, The UBC-Soil Group, Tallus Heights, Kelowna, BC V4T 3M2, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hao X, Yang J, Dong S, He F, Zhang Y. The influence of grazing intensity on soil organic carbon storage in grassland of China: A meta-analysis. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 924:171439. [PMID: 38438023 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Grazing can potentially affect grassland soil carbon storage through selective feeding, trampling and fecal excretion of livestock. The numerous case studies and a few meta-analyses have focused on grazing-induced changes in soil organic carbon (SOC) storage, but the effects of grazing on SOC in major grassland types of China are not clear. In this study, we performed a comprehensive meta-analysis to identify the impact of grazing on soil carbon in China. We found that the key factors affecting the SOC content of grazing grasslands is grazing intensity. Heavy grazing (HG) significantly decreased the SOC content by 7.5 % in major grassland types of China (95 % confidence interval (CI), -11.43 % to -3.57 %, P < 0.001). The SOC content in temperate desert steppes (7.22 %), temperate meadow-steppes (10.89 %) under heavy grazing (HG) showed significantly (P < 0.05) decreased. HG resulted in significant (P < 0.01) decreases in SOC content (6.91 %) of Kastanoze. Our study highlighted that formulating rational grazing strategies according to grassland and soil types was the key to increasing SOC storage and sequestration under climate change and increased human pressure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinghai Hao
- School of Grassland Science, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China; College of Grassland Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Juejie Yang
- School of Grassland Science, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Shikui Dong
- School of Grassland Science, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Fengcai He
- School of Grassland Science, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yuhao Zhang
- School of Grassland Science, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Li T, Chang S, Wang Z, Cheng Y, Peng Z, Li L, Lou S, Liu Y, Wang D, Zhong H, Zhu H, Hou F, Nan Z. Interactive effects of grassland utilization and climatic factors govern the plant diversity-soil C relationship in steppe of North China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 922:171171. [PMID: 38402971 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
The relationship between plant diversity and the ecosystem carbon pool is important for understanding the role of biodiversity in regulating ecosystem functions. However, it is not clear how the relationship between plant diversity and soil carbon content changes under different grassland use patterns. In a 3-year study from 2013 to 2015, we investigated plant diversity and soil total carbon (TC) content of grasslands in northern China under different grassland utilization methods (grazing, mowing, and enclosure) and climatic conditions. Shannon-Wiener and Species richness index of grassland were significantly decreased by grazing and mowing. Plant diversity was positively correlated with annual precipitation (AP) and negatively correlated with annual mean temperature (AMT). AP was the primary regulator of plant diversity. Grazing and mowing decreased TC levels in grasslands compared with enclosures, especially in topsoil (0-20 cm). The average TC content was decreased by 58 % and 36 % in the 0-10 cm soil layer, while it was decreased by 68 % and 39 % in 10-20 cm soil layer. TC was positively correlated with AP and negatively correlated with AMT. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that plant diversity was positively correlated with soil TC, and the correlation decreased with an increase in the soil depth. Overall, this study provides a theoretical basis for predicting soil carbon storage in grasslands under human disturbances and climate change impacts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tengfei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Engineering Technology Research Center for Ecological Restoration and Utilization of Degraded Grassland in Northwest China, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Shenghua Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Engineering Technology Research Center for Ecological Restoration and Utilization of Degraded Grassland in Northwest China, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Zhaofeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Engineering Technology Research Center for Ecological Restoration and Utilization of Degraded Grassland in Northwest China, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Yunxiang Cheng
- College of Ecology and Environment, Inner Mongolia University, Huhhot, China
| | - Zechen Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Engineering Technology Research Center for Ecological Restoration and Utilization of Degraded Grassland in Northwest China, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Lan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Engineering Technology Research Center for Ecological Restoration and Utilization of Degraded Grassland in Northwest China, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Shanning Lou
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Engineering Technology Research Center for Ecological Restoration and Utilization of Degraded Grassland in Northwest China, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Yongjie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Engineering Technology Research Center for Ecological Restoration and Utilization of Degraded Grassland in Northwest China, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | | | - Huaping Zhong
- Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, CAS, China
| | - Huazhong Zhu
- Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, CAS, China
| | - Fujiang Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Engineering Technology Research Center for Ecological Restoration and Utilization of Degraded Grassland in Northwest China, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China.
| | - Zhibiao Nan
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Engineering Technology Research Center for Ecological Restoration and Utilization of Degraded Grassland in Northwest China, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jiang A, Mipam TD, Jing L, Li Z, Li T, Liu J, Tian L. Large herbivore grazing accelerates litter decomposition in terrestrial ecosystems. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 922:171288. [PMID: 38423309 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Plant litter decomposition is critical for carbon and nutrient cycling globally. However, the effect of large herbivore grazing on litter decomposition and its mechanisms remain less explored. Here, 1203 paired observations and 381 independent experiments were analyzed to determine how litter decomposition and nutrient cycling respond to changes in grazing intensity. Grazing significantly increased litter decomposition rate by 14.08 % and litter carbon release by 5.03 %, and this effect was observed in grasslands and croplands but not in forests. The positive grazing effect was also found under sheep and cattle/yak grazing. Moderate grazing advanced the home-field advantage effect but inhibited under heavy grazing for grazed litters. The grazing effect was larger for high quality litter than for low quality litter. Litter decomposition slowed under >10 years heavy grazing but accelerated under moderate grazing. The effects of large herbivore grazing on litter decomposition were jointly influenced by grazing intensity, livestock type, climate condition, decomposition duration, litter quality, and soil properties. Our results demonstrated that large herbivore grazing accelerates litter decomposition globally and emphasized the significance and importance of grazing intensity on litter decomposition, which should be integrated into terrestrial ecosystem models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ao Jiang
- Sichuan Zoige Alpine Wetland Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Key Laboratory for Bio-resource and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Tserang Donko Mipam
- Sichuan Zoige Alpine Wetland Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Institute of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Luhuai Jing
- Sichuan Zoige Alpine Wetland Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Key Laboratory for Bio-resource and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Zhe Li
- Sichuan Zoige Alpine Wetland Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Key Laboratory for Bio-resource and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Tao Li
- Sichuan Zoige Alpine Wetland Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Key Laboratory for Bio-resource and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Jianquan Liu
- Sichuan Zoige Alpine Wetland Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Key Laboratory for Bio-resource and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Liming Tian
- Sichuan Zoige Alpine Wetland Ecosystem National Observation and Research Station, Key Laboratory for Bio-resource and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Liu Y, Zhang X, Du X, Du Z, Sun M. Alpine grassland greening on the Northern Tibetan Plateau driven by climate change and human activities considering extreme temperature and soil moisture. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 916:169995. [PMID: 38242484 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Alpine grassland is among the world's most vulnerable ecosystems, characterized by a high sensitivity to climate change (CC) and human activities (HA). Quantifying the relative contributions of CC and HA to grassland change plays a crucial role in safeguarding grassland ecological security and devising sustainable grassland management strategies. Although there were adequate studies focusing on the separate impacts of CC and HA on alpine ecosystem, insufficient attention has been given to investigating the effects of extreme temperatures and soil moisture. In this study, the spatiotemporal variations of alpine grassland were analyzed based on MODIS NDVI during the growing season from 2000 to 2020 in Naqu, using partial least squares regression and residual analysis methods to analyze the importance of climate factors and the impacts of CC and HA on grassland change. The results show that the NDVI during the growing season in Naqu exhibited an increasing trend of 0.0046/10a. At the biome scale, the most significant and rapid increase was observed in alpine desert and alpine desert grassland. Extreme temperature and soil moisture (SM) exerted a more significant importance on alpine grassland at whole scale. SM always showed a significant importance at biome and grid scale. The contributions of CC and HA to the change during the growing season were calculated as 0.0032/10a and 0.0015/10a, respectively, accounting for 68.05 % and 31.05 %. CC dominated the increase in NDVI during the growing season; HA contributed positively to NDVI in most areas of Naqu. The results are expected to enhance our understanding of grassland variations under CC and HA and provide a scientific basis for future ecological conservation in alpine regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanguo Liu
- School of Public Administration, Hohai University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoke Zhang
- School of Public Administration, Hohai University, Nanjing, China; Center for Environmental and Social Studies, Hohai University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Xindong Du
- School of Public Administration, Hohai University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ziyin Du
- School of Land and Resources, China West Normal University, Nanchong, China
| | - Mingze Sun
- School of Public Administration, Hohai University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
McDonald SE, Badgery W, Clarendon S, Orgill S, Sinclair K, Meyer R, Butchart DB, Eckard R, Rowlings D, Grace P, Doran-Browne N, Harden S, Macdonald A, Wellington M, Pachas ANA, Eisner R, Amidy M, Harrison MT. Grazing management for soil carbon in Australia: A review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 347:119146. [PMID: 37852027 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
The livestock industry accounts for a considerable proportion of agricultural greenhouse gas emissions, and in response, the Australian red meat industry has committed to an aspirational target of net-zero emissions by 2030. Increasing soil carbon storage in grazing lands has been identified as one method to help achieve this, while also potentially improving production and provision of other ecosystem services. This review examined the effects of grazing management on soil carbon and factors that drive soil carbon sequestration in Australia. A systematic literature search and meta-analysis was used to compare effects of stocking intensity (stocking rate or utilisation) and stocking method (i.e, continuous, rotational or seasonal grazing systems) on soil organic carbon, pasture herbage mass, plant growth and ground cover. Impacts on below ground biomass, soil nitrogen and soil structure are also discussed. Overall, no significant impact of stocking intensity or method on soil carbon sequestration in Australia was found, although lower stocking intensity and incorporating periods of rest into grazing systems (rotational grazing) had positive effects on herbage mass and ground cover compared with higher stocking intensity or continuous grazing. Minimal impact of grazing management on pasture growth rate and below-ground biomass has been reported in Australia. However, these factors improved with grazing intensity or rotational grazing in some circumstances. While there is a lack of evidence in Australia that grazing management directly increases soil carbon, this meta-analysis indicated that grazing management practices have potential to benefit the drivers of soil carbon sequestration by increasing above and below-ground plant production, maintaining a higher residual biomass, and promoting productive perennial pasture species. Specific recommendations for future research and management are provided in the paper.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E McDonald
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, Trangie Agricultural Research Centre, Trangie, NSW, 2823, Australia.
| | - Warwick Badgery
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, Orange Agricultural Institute, 1447 Forest Rd, Orange, NSW, 2800, Australia
| | - Simon Clarendon
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, Tamworth Agricultural Institute, Tamworth, NSW, 2340, Australia
| | - Susan Orgill
- Select Carbon, 275 George St, Brisbane, Qld, 4000, Australia
| | - Katrina Sinclair
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, Wollongbar Agricultural Institute, Wollongbar, NSW, 2477, Australia
| | - Rachelle Meyer
- School of Agriculture and Food, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Dominique Bowen Butchart
- Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Newnham, Launceston, 7248, Australia
| | - Richard Eckard
- School of Agriculture and Food, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - David Rowlings
- Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Peter Grace
- Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Steven Harden
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, Tamworth Agricultural Institute, Tamworth, NSW, 2340, Australia
| | - Ainslie Macdonald
- School of Agriculture and Food, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Michael Wellington
- Centre for Entrepreneurial Agri-Technology, Australian National University, 116 Daley Rd, Acton, Australia
| | | | - Rowan Eisner
- Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Newnham, Launceston, 7248, Australia
| | - Martin Amidy
- Centre for Entrepreneurial Agri-Technology, Australian National University, 116 Daley Rd, Acton, Australia
| | - Matthew Tom Harrison
- Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Newnham, Launceston, 7248, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Qiqige B, Wei B, Wei Y, Liu M, Bi Y, Xu R, Liu N, Yang G, Zhang Y. Climate, not grazing, influences soil microbial diversity through changes in vegetation and abiotic factors on geographical patterns in the Eurasian steppe. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1238077. [PMID: 37745991 PMCID: PMC10511900 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1238077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Livestock grazing has a significant impact on the biodiversity of nature grassland ecosystems, which is mainly regulated by climate factors. Soil microbes are essential components of biogeochemical cycles. However, the coupling effects of grazing with MAT (mean annual temperature) and MAP (mean annual precipitation) on soil microbial communities remain inconsistent. Our study considered the various climates in four grasslands as natural temperature and precipitation gradients combined with grazing intensity (GI). We collected and analyzed vegetation and soil physiochemical properties from four grasslands. Our results showed that climate factors (CF) changed β diversity of soil bacteria and fungi while grazing intensity and their interaction merely affected fungi β diversity. Furthermore, climate factors and grazing intensity impacted changes in vegetation and soil physiochemical properties, with their interaction leading to changes in EC and MBC. Our analysis revealed that climate factors contributed 13.1% to bacteria community variation while grazing intensity contributed 3.01% to fungi community variation. Piecewise SEM analysis demonstrated that MAT and MAP were essential predictors of bacteria β diversity, which was significantly affected by vegetation and soil carbon and nitrogen. At the same time, MAP was an essential factor of fungi β diversity and was mainly affected by soil nitrogen. Our study indicated that bacteria and fungi β diversity was affected by different environmental processes and can adapt to specific grazing intensities over time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bademu Qiqige
- Department of Grassland Science, College of Grassland Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Grasslands Management and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Wei
- Department of Grassland Science, College of Grassland Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Grasslands Management and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Yuqi Wei
- Department of Grassland Science, College of Grassland Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Grasslands Management and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Mohan Liu
- Department of Grassland Science, College of Grassland Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Grasslands Management and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Yixian Bi
- Department of Grassland Science, College of Grassland Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Grasslands Management and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Ruixuan Xu
- Department of Grassland Science, College of Grassland Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Grasslands Management and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Nan Liu
- Department of Grassland Science, College of Grassland Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Grasslands Management and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Gaowen Yang
- Department of Grassland Science, College of Grassland Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Grasslands Management and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Yingjun Zhang
- Department of Grassland Science, College of Grassland Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Grasslands Management and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen J, Biswas A, Su H, Cao J, Hong S, Wang H, Dong X. Quantifying changes in soil organic carbon density from 1982 to 2020 in Chinese grasslands using a random forest model. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1076902. [PMID: 37404537 PMCID: PMC10316965 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1076902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
China has the second-largest grassland area in the world. Soil organic carbon storage (SOCS) in grasslands plays a critical role in maintaining carbon balance and mitigating climate change, both nationally and globally. Soil organic carbon density (SOCD) is an important indicator of SOCS. Exploring the spatiotemporal dynamics of SOCD enables policymakers to develop strategies to reduce carbon emissions, thus meeting the goals of "emission peak" in 2030 and "carbon neutrality" in 2060 proposed by the Chinese government. The objective of this study was to quantify the dynamics of SOCD (0-100 cm) in Chinese grasslands from 1982 to 2020 and identify the dominant drivers of SOCD change using a random forest model. The results showed that the mean SOCD in Chinese grasslands was 7.791 kg C m-2 in 1982 and 8.525 kg C m-2 in 2020, with a net increase of 0.734 kg C m-2 across China. The areas with increased SOCD were mainly distributed in the southern (0.411 kg C m-2), northwestern (1.439 kg C m-2), and Qinghai-Tibetan (0.915 kg C m-2) regions, while those with decreased SOCD were mainly found in the northern (0.172 kg C m-2) region. Temperature, normalized difference vegetation index, elevation, and wind speed were the dominant factors driving grassland SOCD change, explaining 73.23% of total variation in SOCD. During the study period, grassland SOCS increased in the northwestern region but decreased in the other three regions. Overall, SOCS of Chinese grasslands in 2020 was 22.623 Pg, with a net decrease of 1.158 Pg since 1982. Over the past few decades, the reduction in SOCS caused by grassland degradation may have contributed to soil organic carbon loss and created a negative impact on climate. The results highlight the urgency of strengthening soil carbon management in these grasslands and improving SOCS towards a positive climate impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chen
- College of Geography and Environmental Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Asim Biswas
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Haohai Su
- College of Geography and Environmental Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jianjun Cao
- College of Geography and Environmental Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Eco-functional Polymer Materials of the Ministry of Education, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Shuyan Hong
- College of Geography and Environmental Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hairu Wang
- College of Geography and Environmental Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaogang Dong
- College of Geography and Environmental Science, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Dang Z, Guo N, Li S, Degen AA, Cao J, Deng B, Wang A, Peng Z, Ding L, Long R, Shang Z. Effect of grazing exclusion on emission of greenhouse gases and soil organic carbon turnover in alpine shrub meadow. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:159758. [PMID: 36349635 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Grazing exclusion (GE) is a management option used widely to restore degraded grassland and improve grassland ecosystems. However, the impacts of GE on soil properties and greenhouse gas emissions of alpine shrub meadow are still unclear, especially long-term GE of more than ten years. To fill part of this gap, we examined the effects of long-term GE of alpine shrub meadow on soil nutrients, soil properties, greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 and CH4) and soil organic carbon (SOC) turnover. When compared to grazed grassland (GG), long-term GE resulted in: 1) greater SOC, nitrogen (N), and phosphorous (P) content, especially in the 20-30 cm soil layer; 2) greater soil C:N, C:P and N:P ratios in the 20-30 cm depth; 3) greater soil CO2, but lesser CH4 emission during the growing season; and 4) much faster SOC turnover time (0-30 cm). GE of more than ten years can increase grassland C reserves and improve the C sequestration capacity of the ecosystem. Results from this study can have important implications in developing future grassland management policies on soil nutrient balances, restoration of degraded grassland and controlling shrub expansion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Dang
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Na Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - A Allan Degen
- Desert Animal Adaptations and Husbandry, Wyler Department of Dryland Agriculture, Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410500, Israel
| | - Jingjuan Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Bin Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Aidong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zhen Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Luming Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Ruijun Long
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zhanhuan Shang
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, College of ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wu Y, Guo Z, Li Z, Liang M, Tang Y, Zhang J, Miao B, Wang L, Liang C. The main driver of soil organic carbon differs greatly between topsoil and subsoil in a grazing steppe. Ecol Evol 2022; 12:e9182. [PMID: 35949532 PMCID: PMC9353232 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.9182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Soil organic carbon (SOC) dynamics is regulated by a complex interplay of factors such as climate and potential anthropogenic activities. Livestocks play a key role in regulating the C cycle in grasslands. However, the interrelationship between SOC and these drivers remains unclear at different soil layers, and their potential relationships network have rarely been quantitatively assessed. Here, we completed a six‐year manipulation experiment of grazing exclusion (no grazing: NG) and increasing grazing intensity (light grazing: LG, medium grazing: MG, heavy grazing: HG). We tested light fraction organic carbon (LFOC) and heavy fraction organic carbon (HFOC) in 12 plots along grazing intensity in three soil layers (topsoil: 0–10 cm, mid‐soil: 10–30 cm, subsoil: 30–50 cm) to assess the drivers of SOC. Grazing significantly reduced SOC of the soil profile, but with significant depth and time dependencies. (1) SOC and SOC stability of the topsoil is primarily regulated by grazing duration (years). Specifically, grazing duration and grazing intensity increased the SOC lability of topsoil due to an increase in LFOC. (2) Grazing intensity was the major factor affecting the mid‐soil SOC dynamics, among which MG had significantly lower SOC than did NG. (3) Subsoil organic carbon dynamics were mainly regulated by climatic factors. The increase in mean annual temperature (MAT) may have promoted the turnover of LFOC to HFOC in the subsoil. Synthesis and applications. When evaluating the impacts of grazing on soil organic fraction, we need to consider the differences in sampling depth and the duration of grazing years. Our results highlight that the key factors influencing SOC dynamics differ among soil layers. Climatic and grazing factors have different roles in determining SOC in each soil layer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yantao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Resource Use of the Mongolian Plateau Ministry of Education of China Hohhot China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Grassland Ecological Security Ministry of Education of China Hohhot China
- School of Ecology and Environment Inner Mongolia University Hohhot China
| | - Zhiwei Guo
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Resource Use of the Mongolian Plateau Ministry of Education of China Hohhot China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Grassland Ecological Security Ministry of Education of China Hohhot China
- School of Ecology and Environment Inner Mongolia University Hohhot China
| | - Zhiyong Li
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Resource Use of the Mongolian Plateau Ministry of Education of China Hohhot China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Grassland Ecological Security Ministry of Education of China Hohhot China
- School of Ecology and Environment Inner Mongolia University Hohhot China
| | - Maowei Liang
- Department of Environmental Sciences University of Virginia Charlottesville USA
| | | | - Jinghui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Resource Use of the Mongolian Plateau Ministry of Education of China Hohhot China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Grassland Ecological Security Ministry of Education of China Hohhot China
- School of Ecology and Environment Inner Mongolia University Hohhot China
| | - Bailing Miao
- Inner Mongolia Meteorological Institute Hohhot China
| | - Lixin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Resource Use of the Mongolian Plateau Ministry of Education of China Hohhot China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Grassland Ecological Security Ministry of Education of China Hohhot China
- School of Ecology and Environment Inner Mongolia University Hohhot China
| | - Cuizhu Liang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Resource Use of the Mongolian Plateau Ministry of Education of China Hohhot China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Grassland Ecological Security Ministry of Education of China Hohhot China
- School of Ecology and Environment Inner Mongolia University Hohhot China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Li J, He B, Zhou S, Zhang X, Li C, Han G. Prediction of plant diversity under different stocking rates based on functional traits of constructive species in a desert steppe, northern China. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2022.865703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive grazing causes a decrease in plant diversity of grassland and also leads to changes in the functional traits of grassland plants. Based on the relationship between plant diversity and the functional traits of constructive species, the patterns of change in plant diversity can be predicted based on change in plant functional traits under different stocking rates. For the present study, Stipa breviflora desert steppe in Inner Mongolia was studied to characterize the plant community and population characteristics and plant functional traits of S. breviflora in grazing areas with different stocking rates [without grazing, light grazing (LG, 0.93 sheep unit hm–2half yr–1), moderate grazing (MG, 1.82 sheep unit hm–2half yr–1), heavy grazing (HG, 2.71 sheep unit hm–2 half yr–1)]. The results showed that: (1) LG significantly weakened the competitive advantage of the constructive species (S. breviflora) (P < 0.05), while HG significantly strengthened its competitive advantage in the community (P < 0.05); (2) Changes in plant diversity were generally significantly related to changes in S. breviflora root traits. The competitive advantage of S. breviflora in the community and the change in root traits could be used to predict the change in plant diversity in the desert steppe under different stocking rates. This research can provide a theoretical basis for maintaining plant diversity and sustainability in the desert steppe.
Collapse
|
12
|
Jarque-Bascuñana L, Calleja JA, Ibañez M, Bartolomé J, Albanell E, Espunyes J, Gálvez-Cerón A, López-Martín JM, Villamuelas M, Gassó D, Fernández-Aguilar X, Colom-Cadena A, Krumins JA, Serrano E. Grazing influences biomass production and protein content of alpine meadows. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 818:151771. [PMID: 34808181 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Alpine grasslands are essential for carbon sequestration and food supply for domestic and wild herbivores inhabiting mountainous areas worldwide. These biomes, however, are alternatively threatened by the abandonment of agricultural and livestock practices leading to a fast-growing shrubification process while other mountain grasslands are suffering from the impacts of overgrazing. The functioning of alpine meadow ecosystems is primarily driven by climatic conditions, land-use legacies and grazing. However, although it is critically important, the role of large herbivores on the aboveground biomass and protein content of palatable plants is poorly understood for most alpine meadows. In this work, we explore the effects of grazing on grassland vegetation at two different spatial and temporal scales in the Eastern Pyrenees, Spain. Remote sensing was used to assess the effect of high and moderate grazing (HG and MG respectively) on grass biomass using the leaf area index (LAI) at the meso-scale (patches between 2.3 and 38.7 ha). We also explored the impact of null (NG), overgrazing (MO, mimicked overgrazing) and high (HG) grazing intensities at local scale setting eighteen 1 m2 exclusion boxes in six meadows (three boxes each) commonly used by domestic and wild ungulates. Historical satellite data showed that LAI values are greater in high than in low grazed areas (HG, mean = 0.66, LG, mean = 0.55). Along the same lines, high and moderate grazing pressures improved biomass production at the local-scale (HG, mean = 590.3 g/m2, MO, mean = 389.3 g/m2 and NG, mean = 110.8 g/m2). Crude protein content reached higher values under MO pressure than under HG pressure. Our results confirm that grazing intensity exerts significant changes on the above-ground biomass production and the protein content of plants consumed by domestic (cattle and horses) and wild ungulates (Southern Chamois, Rupicapra pyrenaica). We can conclude that ungulates sustain biomass and nutritive values of grass exerting a negligible effect on biomass and protein content of woody vegetation. Our results will inform management guidelines to support profitable grazing activities and promote conservation of the open landscapes in the alpine ecosystems under the current global change scenario.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laia Jarque-Bascuñana
- Wildlife Ecology & Health group (WE&H), Servei d'Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain.
| | - Juan Antonio Calleja
- Departamento de Biología (Botánica), Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain; CREAF, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Miguel Ibañez
- Grup de Recerca en Remugants, Departament de Ciència Animal i dels Aliments, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Jordi Bartolomé
- Grup de Recerca en Remugants, Departament de Ciència Animal i dels Aliments, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Elena Albanell
- Grup de Recerca en Remugants, Departament de Ciència Animal i dels Aliments, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Johan Espunyes
- Wildlife Ecology & Health group (WE&H), Servei d'Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain; Wildlife Conservation Medicine Research Group (WildCoM), Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain
| | | | - Josep María López-Martín
- Wildlife Ecology & Health group (WE&H), Servei d'Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain; Secció de Biodiversitat i Activitats Cinegètiques, Serveis Territorials de Barcelona, Departament d'Agricultura, Ramaderia, Pesca, Alimentació i Medi Natural, Generalitat de Catalunya, Spain
| | - Miriam Villamuelas
- Wildlife Ecology & Health group (WE&H), Servei d'Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Diana Gassó
- Wildlife Ecology & Health group (WE&H), Servei d'Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Xavier Fernández-Aguilar
- Department of Ecosystem and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Andreu Colom-Cadena
- Wildlife Ecology & Health group (WE&H), Servei d'Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain
| | | | - Emmanuel Serrano
- Wildlife Ecology & Health group (WE&H), Servei d'Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang J, Li W, Cao W, Wang S. Effects of different intensities of long-term grazing on plant diversity, biomass and carbon stock in alpine shrubland on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. PeerJ 2022; 10:e12771. [PMID: 35070507 PMCID: PMC8760858 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Grazing is the main grassland management strategy applied in alpine shrubland ecosystems on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. However, how different intensities of long-term grazing affect plant diversity, biomass accumulation and carbon (C) stock in these ecosystems is poorly understood. In this study, alpine shrubland with different long-term (more than 30 years) grazing intensities (excluded from grazing for 5 years (EX), light grazing (LG), moderate grazing (MG) and heavy grazing (HG)) on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau were selected to study changes in plant diversity, aboveground biomass and C accumulation, as well as distribution of C stock among biomass components and soil depths. A structural equation model was used to illustrate the impact of grazing on the soil carbon stock (SOC). The results showed that the Shannon-Wiener diversity index and richness index of herbaceous plants, shrubs, and communities first significantly increased and then decreased with increasing grazing intensity, reaching maxima at the LG site. The aboveground and belowground and litter biomass of understory herbaceous plants, shrubs and communities decreased with increasing grazing intensity, reaching maxima at the EX site. The aboveground and belowground biomass C storage decreased with increasing grazing intensity, reaching maxima at the EX site. The SOC stock and total ecosystem C stock decreased with increasing grazing intensity, reaching maxima at the EX and LG sites. A structural equation model showed that grazing-induced changes in the belowground biomass of understory herbaceous plants greatly contributed to the SOC stock decrease. Thus, considering the utilization and renewal of grassland resources, as well as local economic benefits and ecological effects, LG may be a more rational grazing intensity for species diversity conservation and ecosystem C sequestration in alpine shrubland. Our results provide new insights for incorporating grazing intensity into shrub ecosystem C stock and optimizing grazing management and grassland ecosystem C management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinlan Wang
- Gansu Agricultural University, Grassland Science College, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Wen Li
- Qinghai University, Qinghai Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Wenxia Cao
- Gansu Agricultural University, Grassland Science College, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Shilin Wang
- Gansu Agricultural University, Grassland Science College, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Li W, Liu C, Wang W, Zhou H, Xue Y, Xu J, Xue P, Yan H. Effects of Different Grazing Disturbances on the Plant Diversity and Ecological Functions of Alpine Grassland Ecosystem on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:765070. [PMID: 34966399 PMCID: PMC8710682 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.765070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Grazing is one of the main human disturbance factors in alpine grassland on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP), which can directly or indirectly influence the community structures and ecological functions of grassland ecosystems. However, despite extensive field grazing experiments, there is currently no consensus on how different grazing management approaches affect alpine grassland diversity, soil carbon (C), and nitrogen (N). Here, we conducted a meta-analysis of 70 peer-reviewed publications to evaluate the general response of 11 variables related to alpine grassland ecosystems plant diversity and ecological functions to grazing. Overall, the results showed that grazing significantly increased the species richness, Shannon-Wiener index, and Pielou evenness index values by 9.89% (95% CI: 2.75-17.09%), 7.28% (95% CI: 1.68-13.62%), and 3.74% (95% CI: 1.40-6.52%), respectively. Aboveground biomass (AGB) and belowground biomass (BGB) decreased, respectively, by 41.91% (95% CI: -50.91 to -32.88%) and 17.68% (95% CI: -26.94 to -8.52%). Soil organic carbon (SOC), soil total nitrogen (TN), soil C:N ratio, and soil moisture decreased by 13.06% (95% CI: -15.88 to -10.15%), 12.62% (95% CI: -13.35 to -8.61%), 3.27% (95% CI: -4.25 to -2.09%), and 20.75% (95% CI: -27.89 to -13.61%), respectively, whereas, soil bulk density and soil pH increased by 17.46% (95% CI: 11.88-24.53%) and 2.24% (95% CI: 1.01-3.64%), respectively. Specifically, moderate grazing, long-durations (>5 years), and winter grazing contributed to increases in the species richness, Shannon-Wiener index, and Pielou evenness index. However, AGB, BGB, SOC, TN, and soil C:N ratios showed a decrease with enhanced grazing intensity. The response ratio of SOC was positively associated with AGB and BGB but was negatively related to the Shannon-Wiener index and Pielou evenness index. Furthermore, the effects of grazing on plant diversity, AGB, BGB, SOC, and TN in alpine grassland varied with grazing duration, grazing season, livestock type, and grassland type. The findings suggest that grazing should synthesize other appropriate grazing patterns, such as seasonal and rotation grazing, and, furthermore, additional research on grazing management of alpine grassland on the QTP is needed in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenlong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Chenli Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Wenying Wang
- Department of Life Sciences, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, China
| | - Huakun Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Cold Regions Restoration Ecology, Qinghai Province, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, China
| | - Yating Xue
- College of Resources and Environment, Chengdu University of Information Technology, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Xu
- School of Agriculture and Forestry Economic and Management, Lanzhou University of Finance and Economics, Lanzhou, China
| | - Pengfei Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hepiao Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Harrison MT, Cullen BR, Mayberry DE, Cowie AL, Bilotto F, Badgery WB, Liu K, Davison T, Christie KM, Muleke A, Eckard RJ. Carbon myopia: The urgent need for integrated social, economic and environmental action in the livestock sector. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2021; 27:5726-5761. [PMID: 34314548 PMCID: PMC9290661 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.15816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Livestock have long been integral to food production systems, often not by choice but by need. While our knowledge of livestock greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions mitigation has evolved, the prevailing focus has been-somewhat myopically-on technology applications associated with mitigation. Here, we (1) examine the global distribution of livestock GHG emissions, (2) explore social, economic and environmental co-benefits and trade-offs associated with mitigation interventions and (3) critique approaches for quantifying GHG emissions. This review uncovered many insights. First, while GHG emissions from ruminant livestock are greatest in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC; globally, 66% of emissions are produced by Latin America and the Caribbean, East and southeast Asia and south Asia), the majority of mitigation strategies are designed for developed countries. This serious concern is heightened by the fact that 80% of growth in global meat production over the next decade will occur in LMIC. Second, few studies concurrently assess social, economic and environmental aspects of mitigation. Of the 54 interventions reviewed, only 16 had triple-bottom line benefit with medium-high mitigation potential. Third, while efforts designed to stimulate the adoption of strategies allowing both emissions reduction (ER) and carbon sequestration (CS) would achieve the greatest net emissions mitigation, CS measures have greater potential mitigation and co-benefits. The scientific community must shift attention away from the prevailing myopic lens on carbon, towards more holistic, systems-based, multi-metric approaches that carefully consider the raison d'être for livestock systems. Consequential life cycle assessments and systems-aligned 'socio-economic planetary boundaries' offer useful starting points that may uncover leverage points and cross-scale emergent properties. The derivation of harmonized, globally reconciled sustainability metrics requires iterative dialogue between stakeholders at all levels. Greater emphasis on the simultaneous characterization of multiple sustainability dimensions would help avoid situations where progress made in one area causes maladaptive outcomes in other areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Brendan Richard Cullen
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural SciencesUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVic.Australia
| | | | - Annette Louise Cowie
- NSW Department of Primary Industries/University of New EnglandArmidaleNSWAustralia
| | - Franco Bilotto
- Tasmanian Institute of AgricultureUniversity of TasmaniaBurnieTASAustralia
| | | | - Ke Liu
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Centre for Grain Industry/School of AgricultureYangtze UniversityJingzhouChina
| | - Thomas Davison
- Livestock Productivity PartnershipUniversity of New EnglandArmidaleAustralia
| | | | - Albert Muleke
- Tasmanian Institute of AgricultureUniversity of TasmaniaBurnieTASAustralia
| | - Richard John Eckard
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural SciencesUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVic.Australia
| |
Collapse
|