< Previous | Contents | Next >
♤ Due to heavy grazing pressure, the quality of grasslands deteriorates rapidly, the mulch cover of the soil reduces, microclimate becomes more dry and is readily invaded by xerophytic plants and borrowing animals.
♤ Due to absence of humus cover, mineral soil surface is heavily trampled, when wet it produces puddling of the surface layer. In turn it reduces the infiltration of water into the soil and accelerates run off, resulting in soft erosion.
♤ These changes contribute to the reduction of energy flow, and the disruption of the stratification and periodicity of the primary producers. It results in a breakdown of the biogeochemical cycles of water, carbon and nitrogen.
♤ Water and wind erosion completely deteriorates dry grassland microclimate.