Abstract
The depopulation of mountainous areas and the accompanying reduction in livestock that has traditionally grazed on the spontaneous vegetation of these areas, has led to the uncontrolled growth of shrubs and a significant increase in the risk of fire due to the increased availability of combustible fuel. The reintroduction of extensive grazing may be a viable way of ensuring a sustainable ecosystem compatible with the economic and social life of these areas. Modifications to native plant communities as a result of grazing, however, may lead to directional changes in their structure and composition. Thus, knowledge of animal-plant relationships is essential if foresters are to make appropriate management decisions. Current knowledge of these animal-plant interactions is here reviewed, with special attention paid to tolerance mechanisms, the effects of grazing and plant community dynamics.
Highlights
The depopulation suffered by the mountainous regions of Spain in recent decades has led to a drastic reduction in the number of livestock animals that make use of their plant resources (Revilla, 1987)
The impact of grazing on vegetation refers to modifications to plant morphology and physiology resulting from direct effects, such as defoliation and trampling, and indirect effects, such as the alteration of growth conditions
The different responses of plants to herbivory are the result of the interaction of many factors since they involve a variety of morphological and physiological changes depending upon the tissue consumed (Alonso et al, 1993; Danell et al, 1994), the size of the plant, and its stage of growth (Bryant et al, 1991, 1992)
Summary
The depopulation suffered by the mountainous regions of Spain in recent decades has led to a drastic reduction in the number of livestock animals that make use of their plant resources (Revilla, 1987). The impact of grazing on vegetation refers to modifications to plant morphology and physiology resulting from direct effects, such as defoliation and trampling, and indirect effects, such as the alteration of growth conditions.
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