British Society of Animal Science Annual Conference 2005
-
Published source details
Helden A.J., Anderson A. & Purvis G. (2005) British Society of Animal Science Annual Conference 2005. York, UK. 4-6 April 2005., 236.
Published source details Helden A.J., Anderson A. & Purvis G. (2005) British Society of Animal Science Annual Conference 2005. York, UK. 4-6 April 2005., 236.
Actions
This study is summarised as evidence for the following.
| Action | Category | |
|---|---|---|
|
Reduce management intensity on permanent grasslands (several interventions at once) Action Link |
 |
-
Reduce management intensity on permanent grasslands (several interventions at once)
A replicated, controlled study of pasture in County Meath, Ireland (Helden et al. 2005) found that reduced management intensity resulted in increased species richness of spiders (Araneae) and true bugs (Hemiptera), but not beetles (Coleoptera), flies (Diptera) or bees/wasps/ants (Hymenoptera). Plots compatible with the Rural Environment Protection Scheme (0.82 ha/cow units, 88 kg N/ha) had a significantly higher species richness of spiders (3 species/paddock) and true bugs (7 species) compared to conventional plots (0.65 ha/cow units, 220 kg N/ha; 2 and 5 species respectively). There was no significant difference between treatments for beetles, flies or bees/wasps/ants. Four blocks were established, each with one replicate of the two management systems. Each treatment was sub-divided into three grazing paddocks grazed in a fixed sequence. Arthropods were sampled using a Vortis suction sampler once per paddock in August 2003.
