Impact of climate change on pasture quality in Mediterranean dehesas subjected to different grazing histories

Abstract

Background and aims Forecasted climate change and overgrazing are threatening the sustainability of dehesas, human-managed ecosystems where pastures, livestock and scattered trees coexist. Pasture quality is particularly sensitive to these global-change drivers, but there are still many gaps to broaden knowledge about the interactive effects of both factors on it. In addition, scattered trees might play a relevant role in maintaining high levels of pasture quality under future scenarios of higher aridity, but its role remains largely unexplored. Methods We designed a field manipulative experiment of rainfall exclusion and increased temperature aimed to evaluate the impact of forecasted climate on pasture quality under different historical grazing intensities. To test the potential buffering effect of trees, experimental plots were installed equally in two habitat types: under trees and open grassland. Results Warming reduced the nutrient concentration of pasture, while drought increased it. Tree canopy improved soil fertility, which translated into an increase in pasture quality. Livestock exclusion and high grazing intensity caused a decrease in pasture quality, whereas moderate grazing intensity exerted positive effects on it. Finally, warming beneath tree canopy negatively affected the P concentration of pasture, specifically in the site subjected to moderate grazing intensity. Conclusion Our findings suggest that communities subjected to moderate grazing are more sensitive to climate change from a nutritional standpoint, likely because this management type provides high levels of P to the soil. In addition, we highlight the essential role of trees in agroforestry ecosystems to maintain high values of nutritional quality of pasture.

Genetic Improvement as Adaptation Option for Climate Change in Dairy Farms in South Eastern Australia

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Combining Zinc Biofortification and Native Trichoderma Inoculation Strategies for Subterranean Clover

“…Beyond their economic contributions, these pastures also serve as habitat and food sources for a wide range of faunal species, including storks, vultures, lynx, eagles, lizards, and cranes, among others, contributing to the rich biodiversity of the region [4]. Agroforestry systems, including dehesas, are vital for carbon sequestration and biodiversity preservation [5][6][7][8][9]. Appropriate agroforestry management practices, including sustainable grassland-livestock systems and legume incorporation, are essential for increasing productivity and diversity, especially under increased climate variability [10].…”