Ecosystem: Importance of Grassland and Scrub

People, Grassland and Scrubs

1. People and The Earth’s Ecosystem PEOPLE,GRASSLAND, AND SCRUB MODULE 5:

2. Classify the different grassland biomes Understand the importance of grassland and scrub to wildlife and humans Familiarize students with the management and maintenance of grassland and scrub biomes OBJECTIVES

3. INTRODUCTION TO GRASSLAND AND SCRUB BIOMES GRASSLANDS - Open areas where grasses dominate. It includes savannas, prairies, steppes, etc. SCRUB - A transitional habitat between open grasslands and closed canopy woodlands. IMPORTANCE: Supports a wide range of wildlife by providing nectar, fruits, seeds, shelter, breeding, and roosting sites.

4. IMPORTANCE OF SCRUB FOR WILDLIFE Provides habitat for: Invertebrates : Nectar-rich shrubs like blackthorn, hawthorn, and bramble. Amphibians and Reptiles : South-facing scrub edges for basking and hibernation. Birds and Mammals : Feeding stations for migratory birds, nesting sites for resident birds, and shelter for mammals.

5. IMPORTANCE OF SCRUB FOR INVERTEBRATES Nectar - Rich Shrubs : Essential for the lifecycle of many grassland invertebrates. -Species like blackthorn, hawthorn, and bramble provide early pollen and nectar. Dead Timber Habitat - Valuable for fungi and wood-boring insects. - Contributes to the decomposition process and nutrient cycling in ecosystems.

6. IMPORTANCE OF SCRUB FOR AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES Preferred Conditions - South-facing scrub edges for basking (e.g., adders on heathland gorse). - Dense scrub provides cover and hibernation sites. Wildlife Corridors - Connects different habitats, aiding in species movement and genetic exchange.

7. IMPORTANCE OF SCRUB FOR BIRDS AND MAMMALS Nesting and Feeding - Different bird species prefer specific scrub structures (e.g., linnet in low scrub; song thrush in mature, thick scrub). - Migratory Birds: Coastal scrub acts as feeding stations. Mammals and Raptors - Use scrub for shelter and hunting grounds.

8. SCRUB MANAGEMENT Why Manage Scrub? To prevent natural succession into woodlands. To maintain biodiversity by balancing scrub and open habitats. Seasonal Considerations: Avoid management during bird nesting season (March-July). Best practices suggest management in autumn/winter.

9. IMPROVEMENT OF SCRUB FOR WILDLIFE Increasing Biodiversity: Create scrub through natural regeneration or planting. Ensure a natural, uneven spread of plant species. Management Techniques: Include rotational cutting to maintain varied age and structure. Encourage natural regeneration to support a mosaic of habitats.

10. Rotational Coppicing: Coppicing involves cutting shrubs back to ground level to promote new growth. Suggested 15-year rotation or alternate cycles depending on the scrub type. Brambles and Grassland Management: Shorter cycles (5-6 years) for brambles to maintain diverse growth stages. Cut and rake techniques for grassland edges. MAINTENANCE OF SCRUB HABITAT

11. Scrub Reduction: Necessary when scrub encroaches on high-value habitats like herb-rich grasslands. Eradication of Invasive Species: Target species like rhododendron, Japanese knotweed, or snowberry. Requires repeated efforts and monitoring for successful eradication. SCRUB REDUCTION AND ERADICATION

12. TECHNIQUES FOR MANAGING SCRUB Planting and Sowing: Utilize local species for quick results and sustainable management. Grazing: Livestock helps maintain and reduce scrub but needs careful monitoring to avoid overgrazing. Manual vs. Machinery: Choice depends on the extent of scrub and surrounding habitat conditions.

13. Key Takeaways: Scrub is essential for maintaining ecological diversity. Proper management techniques vary based on goals: improvement, maintenance, reduction, or eradication. Sustainable practices support both wildlife and human needs. CONCLUSION

14. THANK YOU!