Authors:
Gondard, H., S. Jauffret, J. Aronson and S. Lavorel
Publication Date:
2003
Abstract/Summary:
We describe two case studies undertaken to evaluate the effects of logging or overgrazing on plant species diversity in pine forests of southern France and steppe ecosystems of southern Tunisia. Both studies employed the same methodology to identify plant functional traits (morphological, life history and regeneration traits) associated with community response to disturbance. The results of these analyses allowed us to develop state and transition models that could be used to plan and predict ecosystem trajectories, assess ongoing degradation processes and monitor community and ecosystem responses to management and restoration practices. We discuss the relevance and the use of plant functional types (PFTs) as tools for ecosystem management and planning and for monitoring restoration in southern Europe, northern Africa and elsewhere. Using this approach it is possible to improve management strategies for the conservation, restoration and sustainable exploitation of biodiversity and of ecosystems.
Resource Type:
Peer-reviewed Article
Source:
Applied Vegetation Science
Link:
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1654-109X.2003.tb00583.x/abstract