The state of a savanna ecosystem at any given moment is shap

The state of a savanna ecosystem, at any given moment, is shaped by a number of forces acting upon it. Theoretically, in a pristine savanna, these forces would be in balance, over a sufficiently long time horizon. Discuss the interactions of:

-trees / grass / fire, and

-browsers / grazers / elephants

in shaping the savanna ecosystem

Solution

Trees/ grass/ fires, browsers / grazers /elephants.

FIRES

Savannah are subject to threat by fires. Even after being balanced in itself, there have been incidences of regular wild fires. The fires Di not affect the long term larger trees, but can effectively destroy the smaller budding seedlings and herbaceous trees.

GRAZERS AND BROWSERS

The closed structures of the forestland I.e. Rainforests and broadleaf forests are not usually grazed because of its closed structure, therefore, there are less chances of grazing. But savannahs are open structures, with a lot of growth of herbaceous plants and large grasslands which encourage grazing by sheeps, goats and various other cattles. These savannah undergo huge changes over time due to the increased grazing by the various livestock.

There are other factors which affect savannah as well, which can be explained in detail , If required.