Rangelands as dynamic systems — structural and functional diversity in rangelands: integrating different scales in rangeland functioning

Abstract

Many rangelands exist as dynamic systems where structural and functional diversity of the community is a function of several interacting factors. Understanding the effects of these factors in rangelands requires an understanding of component functioning at different scales. Integrating the range of levels from ecophysiology of individual organisms, populations, communities and systems is required if the dynamic nature of rangelands in response to driving forces is to be understood.