Do moose redistribute nutrients in low-productive fen systems?

摘要: Abstract The reduction of human use in many grassland systems across Europe has led to bush encroachment and a loss biodiversity. Low intensity grazing by livestock often been used as cost-effective management tool counteract this process. However, not all semi-natural grasslands are suitable for due large distance from settlements or adverse environmental conditions. In study we address the question whether natural wild ungulates can be useful well. nutrient-limited systems, herbivores affect vegetation dynamics redistribution nutrients next their direct effects on vegetation. They preferentially forage plant species deposit pellets at other locations leading nutrient redistribution. We studied moose ( Alces alces ) Biebrza National Park (Poland), plays role nitrogen dynamics. Microscopic analyses faeces showed that 57% diet consisted Salix cinerea , which was foraged upon indicated positive Jacobs’ selectivity index. Pellet density significantly higher patches S. compared surrounding Based chemical composition pellet density, calculated moose-derived N (faeces urine) leads relevant N-input willow sources system. show do redistribute between different types but instead speed up local recycling dominated willows during growing season. As consequence, become quicker available here than parts hypothesize enhanced N-availability may off-set growth caused browsing willows, fits observed continuous expansion area despite high moose. This suggests likely stimulate rather supposed suppression woody species. these more labour-intensive (f.e. mowing) is required encroachment.