A review on Impacts of climate change on rangelands Soil surface water content, albedo, vegetation cover, vegetation distribution

The dynamic impacts of climate change on rangelands significantly influence soil surface water content, albedo, and consequently, vegetation cover and distribution. Rangelands constitute a vital component of global ecosystems and their sensitive natural landscape makes them highly vulnerable to climate change. Given the relationships between vegetation types and soil water storage capabilities, the interaction between climate change and soil and plant properties is very complex. Changes in precipitation patterns and intensity largely dictate soil moisture dynamics in these regions, which in turn affect vegetative growth and health. Albedo is closely related to vegetation cover; areas with denser plant growth tend to have lower albedo due to the shading effect of leaves, which enhances moisture retention in the soil. Soil erosion processes, driven by climatic factors, can further complicate the relationship between soil moisture and vegetation cover. For instance, wind and water erosion exacerbated by climate changes threaten soil health, nutrient availability, and consequently, vegetation productivity. Rangeland management necessitates integrated approaches that consider the spatial and temporal dynamics influenced by climate change, vegetation cover, soil characteristics, and water management practices. The climate-induced dynamics of rangelands present both challenges and opportunities for ecological management and understanding the intricate relationships between soil surface water content, albedo, and vegetation cover is fundamental for sustainable rangeland management strategies. A comprehensive understanding of these dynamics allows for informed decision-making that can mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and promote the long-term viability of rangeland ecosystems and their continued provision of diverse ecosystem services.

کلیدواژه ها:

impacts of climate change on rangelands ، soil surface water content ، albedo ، vegetation cover ، vegetation distribution