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Li M, Ye M, Li Y, Zeng G, Chen W, Pan X, He Q, Zhang X. An Investigation of the Magnitude of the Role of Different Plant Species in Grassland Communities on Species Diversity, China. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:1567. [PMID: 38891375 PMCID: PMC11174761 DOI: 10.3390/plants13111567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we selected four grassland plots in Altai forest area and used the field survey method of "two-valued occurrence" to obtain the occurrence data of each plant species in the plots so as to calculate the species diversity index value of the community as a whole and the species diversity index value of each plant species not present in the community and to make use of the difference between these two diversity indices to determine the role of each plant species in the overall species diversity of the community. The difference between these two diversity indices was used to investigate the role of each plant species in the overall species diversity of the community. The results show the following: (1) In the grassland of the Altai forest area in Xinjiang, Asteraceae, Poaceae, Fabaceae, Polygonaceae, and Rosaceae are the dominant families, among which the genera Puccinellia Parl, Taraxacum, Pharbitis, Lactuca, Geranium, and Alchemilla are the dominant genera. (2) The plant species with the greatest contribution to species diversity in the four grassland samples was not the first dominant species of the community, but rather the plant species whose dominance was in the second to sixth position. (3) The first dominant species was overwhelmingly dominant in the four sample plots, and it served to increase the overall diversity of the community. (4) The overall trend in the size of the role of species in diversity is unimodal, i.e., logarithmically increasing to a maximum as species dominance decreases and then exponentially or linearly decreasing and eventually converging to zero. The synthesis showed that it was not the first dominant species that played the largest role in species diversity in the different grassland communities and that the overwhelmingly dominant species reduced the species diversity of the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaomiao Li
- College of Geography Science and Tourism, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi 830054, China; (M.L.); (G.Z.); (W.C.); (X.P.); (Q.H.); (X.Z.)
| | - Mao Ye
- College of Geography Science and Tourism, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi 830054, China; (M.L.); (G.Z.); (W.C.); (X.P.); (Q.H.); (X.Z.)
- Xinjiang Laboratory of Lake Environment and Resources in Arid Zone, Urumqi 830054, China
| | - Yinjuan Li
- School of Information and Computer Science, Longdong College, Qingyang 745000, China;
| | - Guoyan Zeng
- College of Geography Science and Tourism, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi 830054, China; (M.L.); (G.Z.); (W.C.); (X.P.); (Q.H.); (X.Z.)
| | - Weilong Chen
- College of Geography Science and Tourism, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi 830054, China; (M.L.); (G.Z.); (W.C.); (X.P.); (Q.H.); (X.Z.)
| | - Xiaoting Pan
- College of Geography Science and Tourism, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi 830054, China; (M.L.); (G.Z.); (W.C.); (X.P.); (Q.H.); (X.Z.)
| | - Qingzhi He
- College of Geography Science and Tourism, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi 830054, China; (M.L.); (G.Z.); (W.C.); (X.P.); (Q.H.); (X.Z.)
| | - Xi Zhang
- College of Geography Science and Tourism, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi 830054, China; (M.L.); (G.Z.); (W.C.); (X.P.); (Q.H.); (X.Z.)
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Wani BA, Magray JA, Ganie AH, Rashid S, Roof-Ul-Qadir, Javid H, Nawchoo IA. Seed biology imperative for conservation and restoration of Swertia thomsonii C.B. Clarke-an endemic medicinal plant of Himalaya. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2024; 196:472. [PMID: 38662176 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-024-12632-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Endemic medicinal plants deserve immediate research priorities as they typically show a limited distribution range, represent few and fragmented populations in the wild and are currently facing anthropogenic threats like overharvesting and habitat degradation. One of the important aspects of ensuring their successful conservation and sustainable utilization lies in comprehending the fundamental seed biology, particularly the dormancy status and seed germination requirements of these plants. Here, we studied the seed eco-physiology and regeneration potential of Swertia thomsonii-an endemic medicinal plant of western Himalaya. We investigated the effect of different pre-sowing treatments, sowing media and sowing depth on seed germination parameters of S. thomsonii. Seeds of S. thomsonii exhibit morphophysiological dormancy (MPD), i.e. when the embryo of the seed is morphologically and/or physiologically immature. Wet stratification at 4 °C for 20 days, pre-sowing treatment with 50 ppm GA3 and pre-sowing treatment with 50 ppm KNO3 were found ideal for overcoming dormancy and enhancing the seed germination of S. thomsonii. Furthermore, seed germination and seedling survival were significantly influenced by pre-sowing treatments, sowing media and sowing depth. The percentage of seed germination and seedling survival got enhanced up to 84-86% and 73-75% respectively when seeds were pre-treated with GA3 or KNO3 and then sown in cocopeat + perlite (1:1) at a depth of 1 cm. The information obtained in the present study outlines an efficient protocol for large-scale cultivation of S. thomsonii thereby limiting the pressure of overexploitation from its natural habitats and may also help in the restoration and conservation of this valuable plant species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal A Wani
- Plant Reproductive Biology, Genetic Diversity and Phytochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190 006, J&K, India.
| | - Junaid A Magray
- Plant Reproductive Biology, Genetic Diversity and Phytochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190 006, J&K, India
| | - Aijaz H Ganie
- Plant Reproductive Biology, Genetic Diversity and Phytochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190 006, J&K, India
| | - Sufiya Rashid
- Plant Reproductive Biology, Genetic Diversity and Phytochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190 006, J&K, India
| | - Roof-Ul-Qadir
- Plant Reproductive Biology, Genetic Diversity and Phytochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190 006, J&K, India
| | - Hanan Javid
- Plant Reproductive Biology, Genetic Diversity and Phytochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190 006, J&K, India
| | - Irshad A Nawchoo
- Plant Reproductive Biology, Genetic Diversity and Phytochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190 006, J&K, India
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Clarke VC, Marcelo-Silva J, Claassens S, Siebert SJ. Crinum bulbispermum, a Medicinal Geophyte with Phytostabilization Properties in Metal-Enriched Mine Tailings. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:79. [PMID: 38202387 PMCID: PMC10780652 DOI: 10.3390/plants13010079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Ancient grasslands are lost through transformation to agriculture, mining, and urban expansion. Land-use change leads to ecosystem degradation and a subsequent loss of biodiversity. Globally, degraded grasslands have become a priority for restoration efforts to recover lost ecosystem services. Although the ecological and social benefits of woody species and grasses are well documented, limited research has considered the use of forbs for restoration purposes despite their benefits (e.g., C sequestration and medicinal uses). The aim of this study was to determine if Crinum bulbispermum (Burm.f.) Milne-Redh. & Schweick., a medicinal geophyte, could form part of restoration initiatives to restore mine soils in grasslands of the South African Highveld. A pot experiment was conducted to assess the performance of C. bulbispermum in a random design, with three soil treatments varying in level of degradation and metal contamination. The plants were monitored for 12 months, and the morphological characters were measured monthly to assess performance and survival. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to determine the soil and plant tissue concentration of potentially toxic metals. The results indicated that mine tailings negatively affected the growth and development of C. bulbispermum. Although the survival rates indicated that it could survive on tailings, its below-par productivity indicated that the species is not ideal for restoration purposes unless the tailings are ameliorated with topsoil. Although there was root accumulation of metals (Co, Cd, Cu, Mo, and Zn), there was no translocation to the bulbs and leaves, which makes C. bulbispermum suitable for medicinal use even when grown on metal-enriched soil. This species may not be viable for phytoremediation but is a contender to be used in phytostabilization due to its ecological advantages and the fact that it does not accumulate or store metals. These findings underscore the importance of considering geophytes in grassland restoration strategies, expanding their ecological and societal benefits beyond conventional approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent C. Clarke
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa; (V.C.C.); (S.C.)
| | - João Marcelo-Silva
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa; (V.C.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Sarina Claassens
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa; (V.C.C.); (S.C.)
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Stefan J. Siebert
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2531, South Africa; (V.C.C.); (S.C.)
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Kirkman KP, Fynn RWS, McGranahan D, O’Reagain PJ, Dugmore T. Future-proofing extensive livestock production in subtropical grasslands and savannas. Anim Front 2023; 13:23-32. [PMID: 37841760 PMCID: PMC10575301 DOI: 10.1093/af/vfad045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin P Kirkman
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Richard W S Fynn
- Okavango Research Institute, University of Botswana, Maun, Botswana
| | - Devan McGranahan
- Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Miles City, Montana, USA
| | - Peter J O’Reagain
- Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Charters Towers, QLD 4820, Australia
| | - Trevor Dugmore
- Livestock Production Science, KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Cedara, South Africa
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Figueiredo MA, da Silva TH, Pinto OHB, Leite MGP, de Oliveira FS, Messias MCTB, Rosa LH, Câmara PEAS, Lopes FAC, Kozovits AR. Metabarcoding of Soil Fungal Communities in Rupestrian Grassland Areas Preserved and Degraded by Mining: Implications for Restoration. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2023; 85:1045-1055. [PMID: 36708392 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-023-02177-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Rupestrian grasslands are vegetation complexes of the Cerrado biome (Brazilian savanna), exhibiting simultaneously great biodiversity and important open-pit mining areas. There is a strong demand for the conservation of remaining areas and restoration of degraded. This study evaluated, using next-generation sequencing, the diversity and ecological aspects of soil fungal communities in ferruginous rupestrian grassland areas preserved and degraded by bauxite mining in Brazil. In the preserved and degraded area, respectively, 565 and 478 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) were detected. Basidiomycota and Ascomycota comprised nearly 72% of the DNA, but Ascomycota showed greater abundance than Basidiomycota in the degraded area (64% and 10%, respectively). In the preserved area, taxa of different hierarchical levels (Agaromycetes, Agaricales, Mortierelaceae, and Mortierella) associated with symbiosis and decomposition were predominant. However, taxa that colonize environments under extreme conditions and pathogens (Dothideomycetes, Pleoporales, Pleosporaceae, and Curvularia) prevailed in the degraded area. The degradation reduced the diversity, and modified the composition of taxa and predominant ecological functions in the community. The lack of fungi that facilitate plant establishment and development in the degraded area suggests the importance of seeking the restoration of this community to ensure the success of the ecological restoration of the environment. The topsoil of preserved area can be a source of inocula of several groups of fungi important for the restoration process but which occur in low abundance or are absent in the degraded area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurílio Assis Figueiredo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Evolução Crustal e Recursos Naturais, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Thamar Holanda da Silva
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Luiz Henrique Rosa
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | | | - Alessandra Rodrigues Kozovits
- Departamento de Biodiversidade, Evolução e Meio Ambiente, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Terra MCNS, Nunes MH, Souza CR, Ferreira GWD, Prado-Junior JAD, Rezende VL, Maciel R, Mantovani V, Rodrigues A, Morais VA, Scolforo JRS, Mello JMD. The inverted forest: Aboveground and notably large belowground carbon stocks and their drivers in Brazilian savannas. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 867:161320. [PMID: 36603629 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.161320] [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: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Savannas contribute to ca. 30 % of the total terrestrial net primary productivity and are responsible for significant carbon storage. Savannas in South America are mostly found within the Cerrado Domain, which is very threatened and presents remarkable carbon pools. Herein, we used a unique dataset of 21 Cerrado sites spanning 144 permanent field plots in Southeastern Brazil to assess the general patterns of above and belowground carbon stocks. We identified the main environmental and tree diversity drivers of aboveground wood carbon and productivity, belowground carbon stocks (roots and soil), carbon ratios (root:shoot and above:below) and total carbon stocks in the Cerrado through a combination of climatic estimates, fire frequency data, field measurements of vegetation, roots, soil carbon, nutrients and texture, and assessment of different components of diversity (species, functional and phylogenetic). Our findings reveal average aboveground, root, and soil carbon stocks of 20.4, 14.24, and 123.13 Mg.ha-1, respectively. Average Root:Shoot and Above:Below confirm the "inverted forest" concept with values of 1.58 and 0.21, respectively. Total carbon was 145.62 Mg.ha-1, reinforcing the great amount of carbon storage in the Cerrado and its role in the carbon cycle and dynamics. Tree diversity variables (mainly species diversity and functional composition variables) had more significant effects over aboveground variables, whereas environmental variables had more significant effects over belowground variables. Ratios and total carbon mixed up these effects. The impressive values of carbon storage, especially belowground, point out the need to better manage and protect the Cerrado. Moreover, our findings might be particularly relevant for discussions on restoration programs focused on the trees-for‑carbon idea that do not consider species diversity and belowground carbon stocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela C N S Terra
- Department of Forest Science, Federal University of Lavras, Campus Universitário, Campus Box 3037, 37200-900 Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Matheus Henrique Nunes
- Department of Geosciences and Geography, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Cleber R Souza
- Department of Forest Science, Federal University of Lavras, Campus Universitário, Campus Box 3037, 37200-900 Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Gabriel W D Ferreira
- Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80525, USA
| | - Jamir A do Prado-Junior
- Institute of Biology, Federal University of Uberlandia, 38400-902 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Vanessa L Rezende
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia Aplicada, Departamento de Ecologia e Conservação, Instituto de Ciências Naturais, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, MG CEP 37200-900, Brazil
| | - Rafaella Maciel
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade de Brasilia, 70910900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Mantovani
- Water Resources Department, Federal University of Lavras, Campus Universitário, Campus Box 3037, 37200-900 Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - André Rodrigues
- Water Resources Department, Federal University of Lavras, Campus Universitário, Campus Box 3037, 37200-900 Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Vinícius Augusto Morais
- Mato Grosso State University, Av. Perimetral Deputado Rogério Silva, C.P. 324, Alta Floresta, MT 78580-000, Brazil
| | - José Roberto Soares Scolforo
- Department of Forest Science, Federal University of Lavras, Campus Universitário, Campus Box 3037, 37200-900 Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - José Marcio de Mello
- Department of Forest Science, Federal University of Lavras, Campus Universitário, Campus Box 3037, 37200-900 Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Silva MC, Moonlight P, Oliveira RS, Pennington RT, Rowland L. Toward diverse seed sourcing to upscale ecological restoration in the Brazilian Cerrado. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2022.1045591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Seed markets are vital to scaling up ecosystem restoration in the Brazilian Cerrado, home of the world’s most species-rich grasslands and savannas. We compiled lists of species traded by four major Cerrado seed supply systems to investigate the representativeness of the species currently available for seed-based restoration. We also identified whether dominant ground-layer species are being sourced for seed production. Seeds from 263 Cerrado species can be purchased for restoration, of which 68% are trees, particularly legumes (24%). 63% of the traded species were found in only one seed supply system. The five most dominant graminoids of the Cerrado ground layer were available for sale, but two additional species uncommon in old-growth areas represented 44% of the sales of a key seed trader in Central Brazil. The expansion of Cerrado seed supply systems should be supported to further increase the number of species on the market. Sourcing seeds from a diversity of herbaceous species is central to facilitating the restoration of species-rich grasslands and savannas in the Cerrado. Recovering the diversity and functioning of old-growth open ecosystems through seeds will depend on increasing the supply and demand for species typical of Cerrado’s ground layer.
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Diversity and Benefits of Arbuscular Mycorrhizae in Restored Riparian Plantations. DIVERSITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/d14110938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Due to the increasing use of vegetation for fuel wood, cattle, agriculture, and due to population pressure that negatively affects biodiversity values, more plantations are needed to obtain a permanent vegetal cover. Attention has been paid to microbial interactions (arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM)) for management and inoculation. To evaluate the benefits of inoculation, the root colonization of inoculated seedlings, soil aggregation, and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) diversity were examined by two field treatments (fertilized with organic matter (OM) vs. fertilized with natural rock phosphate (P)). The preserved and experimental areas presented higher AMF spore number and richness (nine species) than the degraded areas. The addition of OM or P did not improve root colonization by AMF; however, it was a guarantee for a successful restoration as, in the restored fields, a high soil aggregation was found, in addition to a high root colonization, spore number, and richness of AMF. However, the undisturbed site presented the more prominent values. This study showed that AMF are important components in riparian areas, and it brings information for inoculant production in ecological restoration using mixed plantations, contributing to the establishment of mycorrhizal vegetation and soil aggregation that not only benefit AM plants, but also allow non-host plants in degraded areas.
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Porto AB, do Prado MAPF, Rodrigues LDS, Overbeck GE. Restoration of subtropical grasslands degraded by non‐native pine plantations: Effects of litter removal and hay transfer. Restor Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.13773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Boeira Porto
- Programa de Pós‐Graduação em Botânica Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul Porto Alegre Brazil
| | | | - Lucas dos Santos Rodrigues
- Programa de Pós‐Graduação em Oceanografia Biológica Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande Brazil
| | - Gerhard Ernst Overbeck
- Programa de Pós‐Graduação em Botânica Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul Porto Alegre Brazil
- Programa de Pós‐Graduação em Ecologia Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul Porto Alegre Brazil
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Buisson E, Archibald S, Fidelis A, Suding KN. Ancient grasslands guide ambitious goals in grassland restoration. Science 2022; 377:594-598. [PMID: 35926035 DOI: 10.1126/science.abo4605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Grasslands, which constitute almost 40% of the terrestrial biosphere, provide habitat for a great diversity of animals and plants and contribute to the livelihoods of more than 1 billion people worldwide. Whereas the destruction and degradation of grasslands can occur rapidly, recent work indicates that complete recovery of biodiversity and essential functions occurs slowly or not at all. Grassland restoration-interventions to speed or guide this recovery-has received less attention than restoration of forested ecosystems, often due to the prevailing assumption that grasslands are recently formed habitats that can reassemble quickly. Viewing grassland restoration as long-term assembly toward old-growth endpoints, with appreciation of feedbacks and threshold shifts, will be crucial for recognizing when and how restoration can guide recovery of this globally important ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Buisson
- Institut Méditerranéen de Biodiversité et d'Ecologie, Avignon Université, CNRS, IRD, Aix Marseille Université, 84911 Avignon, France
| | - Sally Archibald
- Centre for African Ecology, School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2050, South Africa
| | - Alessandra Fidelis
- Instituto de Biociências, Lab of Vegetation Ecology, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Rio Claro 13506-900, Brazil
| | - Katharine N Suding
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA.,Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
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Ríos C, Lezama F, Rama G, Baldi G, Baeza S. Natural grassland remnants in dynamic agricultural landscapes: identifying drivers of fragmentation. Perspect Ecol Conserv 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pecon.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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Abstract
The principal drivers of Grassland Biome conversion and degradation in South Africa include agricultural intensification, plantation forestry, urban expansion and mining, together with invasive non-native plants and insidious rural sprawl. This biome is poorly conserved and in dire need of restoration, an ecologically centred practice gaining increasing traction given its wide application to people and biodiversity in this emerging culture of renewal. The pioneering proponent of restoration in South Africa is the mining industry, primarily to restore surface stability using vegetation cover. We noticed a historical progression from production-focussed non-native pastures to more diverse suites of native species and habitats in the restoration landscape. This paradigm shift towards the proactive “biodiversity approach” necessitates assisted natural regeneration, mainly through revegetation with grasses, using plugs, sods and/or seeds, together with long-lived perennial forbs. We discuss key management interventions such as ongoing control of invasive non-native plants, the merits of fire and grazing, and the deleterious impacts of fertilisers. We also highlight areas of research requiring further investigation. The “biodiversity approach” has limitations and is best suited to restoring ecological processes rather than attempting to match the original pristine state. We advocate conserving intact grassland ecosystems as the key strategy for protecting grassland biodiversity, including small patches with disproportionately high biodiversity conservation value.
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Young TP, Kimuyu DN, LaMalfa EM, Werner CM, Jones C, Masudi P, Ang'ila R, Sensenig RL. Effects of large mammalian herbivory, previous fire, and year of burn on fire behavior in an African savanna. Ecosphere 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.3980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Truman. P. Young
- Department of Plant Sciences University of California Davis California USA
- Mpala Research Centre Nanyuki Kenya
| | - Duncan N. Kimuyu
- Mpala Research Centre Nanyuki Kenya
- Department of Natural Resources Karatina University Karatina Kenya
| | - Eric M. LaMalfa
- Department of Wildland Resources and Ecology Center Utah State University Logan Utah USA
| | - Chhaya M. Werner
- Department of Botany and Wyoming EPSCoR University of Wyoming Laramie Wyoming USA
| | | | - Phyllis Masudi
- Department of Animal Production University of Nairobi Kangemi Kenya
| | - Robert Ang'ila
- Department of Environmental Studies Karatina University Karatina Kenya
| | - Ryan L. Sensenig
- Department of Biological Sciences Goshen College Goshen Indiana USA
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Abstract
Indonesia has the second-largest biodiversity of any country in the world. Deforestation and forest degradation have caused a range of environmental issues, including habitat degradation and loss of biodiversity, deterioration of water quality and quantity, air pollution, and increased greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. Forest restoration at the landscape level has been conducted to balance ecological integrity and human well-being. Forest restoration efforts are also aimed at reducing CO2 emissions and are closely related to Indonesia’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) from the forestry sector. The purpose of this paper is to examine the regulatory, institutional, and policy aspects of forest restoration in Indonesia, as well as the implementation of forest restoration activities in the country. The article was written using a synoptic review approach to Forest Landscape Restoration (FLR)-related articles and national experiences. Failures, success stories, and criteria and indicators for forest restoration success are all discussed. We also discuss the latest silvicultural techniques for the success of the forest restoration program. Restoration governance in Indonesia has focused on the wetland ecosystem such as peatlands and mangroves, but due to the severely degraded condition of many forests, the government has by necessity opted for active restoration involving the planting and establishment of livelihood options. The government has adapted its restoration approach from the early focus on ecological restoration to more forest landscape restoration, which recognizes that involving the local community in restoration activities is critical for the success of forest restoration.
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Tölgyesi C, Buisson E, Helm A, Temperton VM, Török P. Urgent need for updating the slogan of global climate actions from “tree planting” to “restore native vegetation”. Restor Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.13594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Tölgyesi
- Department of Ecology University of Szeged Közép fasor 52, Szeged 6726 Hungary
| | - Elise Buisson
- Institut Méditerranéen de Biodiversité et d'Ecologie Avignon Université, CNRS, IRD, Aix Marseille Université, IUT d'Avignon, Agroparc 84911 Avignon France
| | - Aveliina Helm
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences University of Tartu Lai 40, 51005 Tartu Estonia
| | - Vicky M. Temperton
- Faculty of Sustainability, Institute of Ecology Leuphana University Lüneburg Universitätsallee 1, 21335 Lüneburg Germany
| | - Péter Török
- MTA‐DE Lendület Functional and Restoration Ecology Research Group University of Debrecen Egyetem tér 1, Debrecen 4032 Hungary
- Polish Academy of Sciences Botanical Garden—Center for Biological Diversity Conservation in Powsin Prawdziwka Street 2, 02‐973 Warszawa Poland
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16
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Silveira FAO, Ordóñez‐Parra CA, Moura LC, Schmidt IB, Andersen AN, Bond W, Buisson E, Durigan G, Fidelis A, Oliveira RS, Parr C, Rowland L, Veldman JW, Pennington RT. Biome Awareness Disparity is BAD for tropical ecosystem conservation and restoration. J Appl Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.14060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando A. O. Silveira
- Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution Federal University of Minas Gerais Belo Horizonte Brazil
| | - Carlos A. Ordóñez‐Parra
- Department of Genetics, Ecology and Evolution Federal University of Minas Gerais Belo Horizonte Brazil
| | - Livia C. Moura
- Institute Society, Population and Nature Brasília Brazil
| | | | - Alan N. Andersen
- Research Institute for the Environment and LivelihoodsCharles Darwin University Darwin NT Australia
| | - William Bond
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Cape Town Cape Town South Africa
| | - Elise Buisson
- Institut Méditerranéen de Biodiversité et d'EcologieCNRSIRDAix Marseille UniversitéAvignon UniversitéIUT d'Avignon Avignon France
| | | | - Alessandra Fidelis
- Lab of Vegetation Ecology Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP) Rio Claro Brazil
| | | | - Catherine Parr
- School of Environmental Sciences University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
- Department of Zoology & Entomology University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
- School of Animal Plant & Environmental Sciences University of the Witwatersrand Wits South Africa
| | - Lucy Rowland
- Department of Geography College of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Exeter Exeter UK
| | - Joseph W. Veldman
- Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology Texas A&M University College Station TX USA
| | - R. Toby Pennington
- School of Environmental Sciences University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Edinburgh UK
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17
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Ntloko BR, Siebert SJ, Mokotjomela TM. Rehabilitation of kimberlite tailings in the afro‐alpine zone of Lesotho: seed germination and plant performance of native grassland species across different topsoil mixtures. Restor Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.13528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefan J. Siebert
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management North‐West University Potchefstroom South Africa
| | - Thabiso M. Mokotjomela
- Centre for Invasion Biology South Africa National Biodiversity Institute, Free State National Botanical Garden Bloemfontein South Africa
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18
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Török P, Brudvig LA, Kollmann J, Price J, Tóthmérész B. The present and future of grassland restoration. Restor Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.13378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Péter Török
- MTA‐DE Lendület Functional and Restoration Ecology Research Group Egyetem sqr. 1 Debrecen 4032 Hungary
- Department of Ecology University of Debrecen Egyetem sqr 1 Debrecen 4032 Hungary
| | - Lars A. Brudvig
- Department of Plant Biology and Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior Michigan State University 368 Plant Biology Labs, 612 Wilson Road East Lansing MI 48824 U.S.A
| | - Johannes Kollmann
- Chair of Restoration Ecology Technical University of Munich, School of Life Sciences Emil‐Ramann‐Str 6 Freising‐Weihenstephan 85354 Germany
| | - Jodi Price
- Institute of Land, Water and Society Charles Sturt University Albury NSW, 2640 Australia
| | - Béla Tóthmérész
- Department of Ecology University of Debrecen Egyetem sqr 1 Debrecen 4032 Hungary
- MTA‐DE Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Research Group Egyetem sqr. 1 Debrecen 4032 Hungary
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