|
Abstract
|
|
|---|---|
| Foraging of herbivores has been one of the most ancient and important causes of heterogeneity in Mediterranean landscapes. Its ecological role has been so extensive, diversified and deep, that much of their current biological and cultural heritage (including many Nature 2000 grassland habitat types) depends upon extensive livestock management systems. However, extensive livestock numbers are decreasing while wild ungulate populations are increasing. Our aim, following the "rivets and redundancy" theory, is to discuss how much of the traditional contribution of livestock to the preservation of those cultural landscapes and to Sustainable Rural Development can be assumed by wild ungulates as well as to describe potential opportunities and risks. Although we lack sufficient knowledge about the role wild ungulates play within their environments, we think they can partially assume some essential functions traditionally played by extensive livestock. However, due to their wild nature and to different potential risks, their stocking rates should be much lower than those of livestock. Hence, especial attention should be paid to risk prevention and particularly to population control. | |
|
International
|
Si |
|
JCR
|
No |
|
Title
|
Options Méditerranéennes A |
|
ISBN
|
1016-121X |
|
Impact factor JCR
|
0 |
|
Impact info
|
|
|
Volume
|
92 |
|
|
|
|
Journal number
|
|
|
From page
|
27 |
|
To page
|
34 |
|
Month
|
ENERO |
|
Ranking
|
|