Abundant resources compensate for the uneven distribution of ungulates in desert grassland.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Strategically managing livestock grazing in arid regions optimizes land use and reduces the damage caused by overgrazing. Controlled grazing preserves the grassland ecosystem and fosters sustainability despite resource limitations. However, uneven resource distribution can lead to diverse grazing patterns and land degradation, particularly in undulating terrains.

Methods

In this study, we developed a herbivore foraging algorithm based on a resource selection function model to analyze foraging distribution patterns, predict the probability of foraging, and identify the determinants of foraging probability in cattle. The study area was a complex desert landscape encompassing dunes and interdunes. Data on cattle movements and resource distribution were collected an

SUBMITTER: Gou X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11310146 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature