Ecosystem engineers: The positive Impact of livestock and poultry on environmental resilience

Ecosystem engineering is a critical concept in environmental science that describes how organisms modify their habitats, often significantly influencing ecological processes and environmental resilience. Livestock and poultry, often considered merely as agricultural resources, play a profound role as ecosystem engineers. Their activities, ranging from grazing and foraging to manure deposition, contribute to various ecological functions that can enhance environmental resilience. This article explores the positive impacts of livestock and poultry on ecosystem dynamics, particularly focusing on their roles in promoting soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and supporting carbon sequestration. A comprehensive review of existing literature was conducted to investigate the positive impacts of livestock and poultry on environmental resilience. Sources included peer-reviewed journals, books, and case studies published between ۲۰۰۰ and ۲۰۲۳. Specific criteria for inclusion involved studies that assessed the effects of livestock and poultry on soil quality, plant diversity, and carbon storage. Additionally, field observations from a range of agricultural systems were analyzed, with a focus on documented cases where livestock and poultry have positively influenced ecosystem processes. Data was systematically categorized and analyzed to identify common themes and impacts. The review highlights the significant role of livestock and poultry as ecosystem engineers. Livestock grazing enhances soil structure and organic matter through manure, while poultry litter improves soil fertility and nutrient cycling, benefiting plant growth and microbial activity. Grazing promotes diverse landscapes, leading to higher plant diversity and supporting wildlife habitats. Poultry foraging also aids in insect control, fostering biodiversity. Additionally, both livestock and poultry contribute to carbon sequestration, with improved management practices enhancing soil carbon storage and aiding climate change mitigation. The review highlights that well-managed livestock and poultry can enhance environmental resilience by improving soil health, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration. However, the benefits depend on factors such as grazing intensity and management practices. Effective strategies are necessary to maximize positive impacts and reduce risks like overgrazing. Future research should focus on optimizing these management practices, conducting longitudinal studies on ecosystem changes, and examining interactions between various livestock types to improve sustainable agriculture.

کلیدواژه ها:

Ecosystem Engineers ، Livestock ، Poultry ، Environmental Resilience ، Soil Health