Summary
This 2023 field study examined faecal nutrient deposition by domestic and wild herbivores in alpine grassland, as suggested by the title and journal scope. The research quantifies how different herbivore species contribute to nutrient cycling and soil fertility through dung deposition, comparing managed livestock with wild ungulates. Findings may inform grassland management strategies that optimise nutrient returns and soil health in extensive grazing systems.
UK applicability
The study's focus on alpine grassland systems has limited direct applicability to lowland UK pastoral systems, though methods for quantifying herbivore nutrient cycling could inform assessment of upland grazing management in the Lake District or Scottish Highlands. Results may be relevant to UK moorland and hill farming nutrient budgeting practices.
Key measures
Faecal nutrient concentration and deposition rates; elemental composition of dung from domestic and wild herbivore species; spatial and temporal patterns of nutrient cycling in alpine grassland soils
Outcomes reported
The study quantified faecal nutrient deposition (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other elements) from both domestic livestock and wild herbivores grazing alpine grassland. The research compared nutrient return pathways and cycling efficiency between managed and unmanaged herbivore populations.
Topic tags
Dig deeper with Pulse AI.
Pulse AI has read the whole catalogue. Ask about this record, its theme, or how the findings apply to UK farming and policy — every answer cites the underlying studies.