Publication Date
1997
Description
This quantitative model predicts changes in the species composition of grazed vegetation. It is based on growth equations for each species represented. The three parameters in each equation represent maximum production rate, maximum standing biomass, and the decline of production rate at high total plant density. Parameters may be varied with environmental factors. The model is generic, but is illustrated using values for four taxa growing under red deer (Cervus elaphus) grazing on the Isle of Rhum, Scotland: bent/fescue grassland (Agrostis/Festuca), purple moor-grass (Molinia caerulea), mat-grass (Nardus stricta) and heather (Calluna vulgaris). The model contrasts the performance of species in monoculture with their performance in mixtures, and predicts the impacts of grazing in both the long and short term. It also predicts the rates as well as the directions of vegetation changes.
Citation
Birch, C.P. D.; Werkman, B R.; and Partridge, L W., "A Predictive Model of Vegetation Dynamics Under Grazing" (2024). IGC Proceedings (1989-2023). 3.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/igc/1997/session12/3
Included in
Agricultural Science Commons, Agronomy and Crop Sciences Commons, Plant Biology Commons, Plant Pathology Commons, Soil Science Commons, Weed Science Commons
A Predictive Model of Vegetation Dynamics Under Grazing
This quantitative model predicts changes in the species composition of grazed vegetation. It is based on growth equations for each species represented. The three parameters in each equation represent maximum production rate, maximum standing biomass, and the decline of production rate at high total plant density. Parameters may be varied with environmental factors. The model is generic, but is illustrated using values for four taxa growing under red deer (Cervus elaphus) grazing on the Isle of Rhum, Scotland: bent/fescue grassland (Agrostis/Festuca), purple moor-grass (Molinia caerulea), mat-grass (Nardus stricta) and heather (Calluna vulgaris). The model contrasts the performance of species in monoculture with their performance in mixtures, and predicts the impacts of grazing in both the long and short term. It also predicts the rates as well as the directions of vegetation changes.
