Flower production of Aster tripolium is affected by behavioral differences in livestock species and stocking densities: the role of activity and selectivity

摘要: Semi-natural grasslands are an important habitat for endangered plant and animal species. In grasslands, low-intensity livestock grazing is frequently applied as a tool nature conservation. We aim to investigate how different species in various densities influence the state flower production of single by selective defoliation and/or trampling. hypothesized that (1) moderate stocking would cause more damage than low, (2) horses cattle due their higher activity. The experiment took place salt marsh Netherlands where treatments with two were installed. Damage individual Aster tripolium plants number heads recorded at end season late September. found fewer compared low densities. However, reduction was less clear cattle. No difference between found, opposite trends At densities, caused defoliation. damage, because mobility, which led conclude response strongly affected behavioral differences Grazing experiments management schemes semi-natural should therefore not only consider but also reach desired conservation goals.