Summary
Abstract Question Semi‐natural grasslands (SNG) are important for maintaining biodiversity and ecological processes in farmland. Current pasture‐based livestock production mainly occurs on intensified grasslands (IG) that have been agronomically improved. Although it is documented that SNG and IG differ in terms of plant diversity, their ability to provide ecosystem services (ES) in farmland is less explored. Here, we review the role of SNG and IG in delivering ES, illustrate their trade‐offs and synergies, and examine how ES can be assessed by using plant traits and functional richness. Results We found that SNG generate a wider range of ES than IG. Trade‐offs exist between ES that appear more pronounced in IG between high biomass production and other ES. SNG are good in providing habitat
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