Authors:
Posada, J.M., T.M. Aide and J. Cavelier
Publication Date:
2000
Abstract/Summary:
This article details an experiment in Colombian montane pastures dominated by two African grasses, Pennisetum clandestinum and Melinis minutiflora, to determine the effect of cattle grazing and seed addition on the establishment and growth of woody species. The results show that a low density of grazing cattle may increase the total density, number of branches, and basal area of woody species while decreasing overall woody species diversity. Where seed was added to the pasture, woody species seedling establishment significantly increased and an interaction effect was found to exist between added seed and grazing suggesting that grazing increases seedling establishment due to added seed. The authors exert that grazing cattle may aide restoration by limiting grassy vegetation and allowing for the establishment of woody shrubs which provide a favorable microclimate for the establishment of tree species.
Resource Type:
Peer-reviewed Article
Source:
Restoration Ecology
Link:
http://users.wfu.edu/hillra7/seed%20sources/Posada%20et%20al%202001.pdf