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Calcareous grassland in danger: How brome threatens biodiversity!
The study by the University of Osnabrück shows how climate change and nitrogen inputs threaten the biodiversity of calcareous grasslands.
Calcareous grassland in danger: How brome threatens biodiversity!
The importance of calcareous grasslands for biodiversity is highlighted by a new study published in the Journal of Environmental Management. These habitats are characterized by a variety of plant and insect species and are legally protected by the EU's Fauna-Flora-Habitats Directive. Loud uni-osnabrueck.de The cover of grass species has increased significantly in the last 40 years, which is mainly due to centuries of use as livestock pastures and meadows on lime-rich soils.
However, changes caused by the encroachment of erect brome pose challenges. This type of grass leads to a homogenization of the vegetative structure and species composition in Central Europe, endangering the ecosystem. This spread is enhanced by climate change, which brings milder winters and drier summers, as well as nitrogen inputs, which increase the species' advantages on deep, nitrogen-enriched soils.
Challenges and solutions
For a long time, the greatest danger to calcareous grasslands came from the abandonment of use. Effective management of erect brome is considered crucial to maintaining these habitats. A suggestion for controlling this type of grass includes regular use in the winter and early spring during first growth and again six to eight weeks later. These management methods can be implemented through grazing or targeted mowing.
In addition, the results of kalkmagerrasen.net relevant. Their studies show how key elements such as common juniper (Juniperus communis) act as a crucial species for balance in calcareous grasslands. These findings emphasize the need to protect specific species that act as indicators of ecosystem health.
Calcareous grasslands as an important ecosystem
Research points to the role of limestone quarries as refuges for once widespread species, such as certain species of butterflies. These findings motivate further research into how habitat quality and maintenance can play a critical role in conserving biodiversity.
Continued research, as part of a larger commitment to conservation, is essential. At a time when the ecosystem is under pressure, the importance of the calcareous grasslands and their inhabitants must come into greater focus. A shared understanding of the challenges and the development of effective management strategies are necessary steps to secure these valuable habitats for future generations.