Grazing affects shoot growth,nutrient and water status of Quercus ilex L. in Mediterranean open woodlands |
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| Authors: | Alma M García-Moreno María D Carbonero-Muñoz María Serrano-Moral Pilar Fernández-Rebollo |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Forestry, ETSIAM, University of Cordoba, Campus de Rabanales, Leonardo Da Vinci, Apdo. 3048, 14071, Córdoba, Spain
2. Department of Agronomy, ETSIAM, University of Cordoba, Campus de Rabanales, Leonardo Da Vinci, Apdo. 3048, 14071, Córdoba, Spain
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| Abstract: | Context Mediterranean open woodlands (dehesa) have faced a dual process of intensification and abandonment of grazing which has resulted in alteration of the understory vegetation. Aims We analysed the effects of land use changes on the physiological status of holm oak in different open woodlands (dehesa) in southern Iberian Peninsula. Methods In an area of extensive grazing, we selected six paired plots (one grazed, one abandoned) and grouped them by habitat types according to understory composition (nearly all monospecific Cistus ladanifer L. shrub or mixed shrub). Six plots of moderate and heavy grazing intensity were chosen within a settled area of livestock use. Shoot growth, macronutrient concentrations and water content were assessed in samples of holm oak leaves. Results Abandonment of grazing affected some nutrient concentrations and water content of holm oak leaves, but the effects were different according to habitat type. C. ladanifer shrub reduced N and P concentrations and water content while mixed shrub increased P concentration and water content. High grazing intensity improved shoot growth and leaf N and Mg concentrations. Conclusion Extensive grazing could be a useful management tool to enhance growth, nutritional and water status of holm oak in a habitat with limited resources such as Mediterranean open woodlands (dehesa). |
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