Integrating design and ecological theory to achieve adaptive diverse pastures. (October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Orwin, Kate H.; Mason, Norman W.H.; Berthet, Elsa T.; Grelet, Gwen; Mudge, Paul; Lavorel, Sandra
• Is Part Of: Trends in ecology & evolution. Volume 37:Number 10(2022)
• Page Start: 861
• Page End: 871
• Publication Date: 2022-10
• Subjects: adaptability -- biodiversity–ecosystem function -- complexity -- ecological integrity -- innovative design -- uncertainty; Ecology -- Periodicals; Evolution (Biology) -- Periodicals; 576.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2022.06.006
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0169-5347

Abstract

Abstract : Increasing plant diversity is often suggested as a way of overcoming some of the challenges faced by managers of intensive pasture systems, but it is unclear how to design the most suitable plant mixtures. Using innovative design theory, we identify two conceptual shifts that foster potentially beneficial design approaches. Firstly, reframing the goal of mixture design to supporting ecological integrity, rather than delivering lists of desired outcomes, leads to flexible design approaches that support context-specific solutions that should operate within identifiable ecological limits. Secondly, embracing, rather than minimising uncertainty in performance leads to adaptive approaches that could enhance current and future benefits of diversifying pasture. These two fundamental shifts could therefore accelerate the successful redesign of intensive pastures. Highlights: Managers of intensive pastoral systems face significant environmental and socioeconomic challenges, including a need to minimise adverse environmental impacts and maximise adaptation to climate change. Increasing plant biodiversity is often suggested as a mechanism to help meet these challenges, but it is unclear how best to design suitable mixtures. The most common current design approach relies on deterministic relationships of species to desired outcomes. This may limit capacity to cope with the high complexity and uncertainty associated with diverse mixtures on-farm, and therefore may not on its own fully realise the potential gains from diversifying pasture. Combining ecological theory with innovative design principles opens up complementary design approaches that could contribute to faster, more successful, transformation of pastoral systems.