How is the Species Biodiversity Swimming Upstream Amidst the Overall Decline of Global Grassland?

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Authors: Jing Zhang, Muhammad Usman, Fujiang Hou
Cited by: 2
References: 121

Abstract

Grasslands are often referred to as the “skin of the Earth.” As primary producers within this ecosystem, grassland plants form the foundation of the food chain and are crucial for maintaining the system’s stability. The species richness of grassland plants significantly influences productivity, which underpins the stability and sustainability of these ecosystems. Currently, global extreme climatic events frequently disrupt grassland stability, leading to a dramatic decline in species diversity. Consequently, the restoration or enhancement of species diversity has become a fundamental objective for grassland ecosystem restoration. Despite the widespread degradation of global grasslands, evidence shows that increasing species diversity is indeed possible. Our research reviews the mechanisms regulating the increase in grassland species amidst declining global grassland health, focusing on biotic, abiotic, and social factors. By examining changes in species numbers, this study elucidates the current state of grasslands through a framework of control, regulation, and prevention. In response to the current situation, we have creatively proposed the construction of a series of projects. The implementation of projects such as “Crop-Livestock Engineering” and “Agriculture Grassland Assisting Livestock Engineering.” The integration of “Semi-cultivated and natural grassland” provides strategic directions for grassland restoration processes.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity Avian ecology and behavior

Publication details

Journal / source
Rangeland Ecology & Management
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
105
Pages
87–99
Publication date
12 February 2026
Language
EN