Temporal variation of stocking rate and primary production in the face of drought and land use change

摘要: Abstract Rangeland stocking rate is subjected to opposite forces. On the one hand, it expected fluctuate with interannual variations of aboveground net primary production (ANPP). other be stabilized by human interventions aimed at keeping a constant monetary flow. The global drought experienced during first decade current century decreased ANPP in many regions. Argentinean rangelands suffered such amid an expansion crop area. We assessed relative impact precipitation trends and on its components across wide gradient Argentina (from 1000 7000 kg.ha−1.year−1). estimated through remote sensing, from 2001 2009, gathered data beef cattle numbers per class rangeland area (n = 67 political districts Argentina) 2002 2009. All significant temporal were negative (36% districts). Fifty-one percent showed trend rate. Despite ANPP, increased 76% these districts. decrease remaining 24% was less than reduction ANPP. Positive associated increase total livestock same area, ones Steers accounted for most changes. As this decoupling between CV about half In face strong land use changes, uncoupled or softened response These responses probably driven economic factors may have profound consequences ecological sustainability.