Journal of Rangeland Science (JRS)Production Potential of Thymus atlanticus (Ball) Roussine in the Eastern High Atlas of MoroccoVolume 14 (2024)Issue 2, April 202420240201Production Potential of Thymus atlanticus (Ball) Roussine in the Eastern High Atlas of Morocco10.57647/j.jrs.2024.1402.10ENBrahimOuahziziPh.D. Student, Faculty of Sciences & Techniques, Moulay Ismail University, Errachidia, Morocco0000-0002-6400-5949HamzaElbounyFaculty of Sciences & Techniques, Moulay Ismail University, Errachidia, Morocco0000-0003-3275-3093AbdelmonaimHomrani BakaliRegional Center of Agricultural Research of Errachidia, National Institute of Agricultural Research, Avenue Ennasr, BP 415 Rabat Principale, 10090 Rabat, Morocco0000-0003-0719-7267ChakibAlemFaculty of Sciences Camp, Techniques, Moulay Ismail University, Errachidia, Morocco0000-0001-6004-7319Journal Article20240201Aromatic and medicinal plants are a rich source of substances that are beneficial to human health. At a socio-economic level, the exploitation of medicinal plants constitutes an important income for the local populations. However, the use of these plants in recent decades has put a lot of pressure on these resources, and many species suffer from over-use without taking into account the existing potential. Thymus atlanticus is an aromatic and medicinal shrub endemic to Morocco. It's rare and has a very limited geographical area. In this study, we determine the status of T. atlanticus and evaluate the biomass production potential of this spontaneous species. The results show that the density of T. atlanticus does not exceed 235 plants per 100 m2, with a recovery rate of 19.92%. Whereas the biomass dry matter was only 67.3±1.22 Kg/ha. The yield of T. atlanticus essential oil was 1.78% (w/w). From these results, it appears that T. atlanticus cannot be exploited in this state. It needs to be rehabilitated, and protected. These results can help to better restore and manage the steppe at T.atlanticus in the future.Journal of Rangeland Science (JRS)Effects of Cutting Date on Yield, Morphological and Quality Traits of Three Grass Species under Irrigation Conditions in North Mecha District, EthiopiaVolume 14 (2024)Issue 2, April 202420240201Effects of Cutting Date on Yield, Morphological and Quality Traits of Three Grass Species under Irrigation Conditions in North Mecha District, Ethiopia10.57647/j.jrs.2024.1402.11ENTobiyawTsegayeResearcher, Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Werer Agricultural Research Center, EthiopiaAshenafiMengistuDepartment of Animal Production, College veterinary medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, EthiopiaYeshambelMekuriaw ChekolCollege of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Department of Animal Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia0000-0001-7562-4406Journal Article20240201This study was aimed to study the effects of cutting interval on yield, morphological and quality traits of three grass species under irrigation conditions in Mecha district, Ethiopia. There were three kinds of grasses namely Para (Brachiaria mutica Stapf.), Napier (Pennisetum purpureum), and Desho (Pennisetum pedicellatum) at three cutting days (60, 90,120). The experimental design was random complete block design with three replications giving a total of nine plots. The grasses were first harvested after 60 days of regrowth; second and third harvests were done after consecutive 30 days of re-growth. Data collected for plant height, tillers number, leaves number per plant and leaf to stem ratio (LSR), dry matter (DM) yield and quality traits as ash content, crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and acid detergent lignin (ADL). All harvested data were laid open to GLM ANOVA procedures of SAS version 9.0. Result showed, harvesting age was significantly affected all the traits except LSR in three grasses. DM yield, plant height, tillers number and the number of leaves per plant ADF, NDF ADL were increased with increasing harvesting age, whereas ash content and CP decreased. It was concluded that Napier grass produces a higher forage yield among the three grasses and longer harvesting days interval result in increased forage DM yield and decrease the CP content in all the studied grasses. At 120 days Napier grass recorded the highest DM yield (16 t/ha). Further research is needed to be conducted over much longer periods to determine to what extent these findings relate to performance over the life of a permanent pasture.Journal of Rangeland Science (JRS)Effects of Fertilizer Type and Harvest Date on Yield and Quality Traits of Brchiaria Hybrid Mulato II Grass (Brachiaria ruziziensis) in Highlands of EthiopiaVolume 14 (2024)Issue 2, April 202420240201Effects of Fertilizer Type and Harvest Date on Yield and Quality Traits of Brchiaria Hybrid Mulato II Grass (Brachiaria ruziziensis) in Highlands of Ethiopia10.57647/j.jrs.2024.1402.12ENSalewBayeMSc Graduated, South Gonder Zone Fogera District, Livestock Development Office, Woreta, EthiopiaBimrewAsmareAssociate Prof. College of Agriculture and Environment Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia0000-0002-1262-6196ShigdafMekuriawResearcher, Andassa Livestock Research Center under Amhara Regional Agricultural Research Institute (ARARI), Bahir Dar, EthiopiaJournal Article20240201The experiment was conducted to assess the effects of fertilizer types, and harvesting date on plant growth characteristics, dry matter (DM) yield and nutritional qualities of Mulato II grass. Data on plant growth characteristics, DM yield, and nutritional qualities of the grass were measured. The findings elucidated that fertilizer had a significant effect on the plant growth characteristics and DM yield but not on nutritional quality, except for crude protein (CP) content. All morphological characteristics except leaf to stem ratio (LSR) have shown better performance with the application of manure than other fertilizer types in the current study. Regarding the harvesting date, the highest morphological performance of all parameters except leaf length was recorded at 105 days. The interaction effect of two factors only significantly affects PH, LSR and root number. For the nutritive value parameters CP, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were better at manure than chemical fertilizer and control. The CP, LSR, and ash content were markedly decreased (P <0.05) as the harvesting age was increased, and manure application. Hybrid Mulato II grass at about 105 days at manure fertilizer application would help to achieve greater DM yield using irrigation and rainfall production systems.Journal of Rangeland Science (JRS)Prediction of Climatic Ecological Nest of Artemisia aucheri Boiss, in Tehran Province, Iran Based on ModelingVolume 14 (2024)Issue 2, April 202420240201Prediction of Climatic Ecological Nest of Artemisia aucheri Boiss, in Tehran Province, Iran Based on Modeling10.57647/j.jrs.2024.1402.13ENMahshidSouriRangeland Research Division, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Tehran, Iran0000-0003-1239-1013MortezaKhodagholiRangeland Research Division, Rangelands and Forests of Institute Research, Agricultural Research Extension Education Organization (AREEO), Tehran, Iran0000-0001-7969-6386SaeedehNateghiAssistant Professor, Rangeland Research Division, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Tehran, Iran0000-0001-7912-9138NadiaKamaliRangeland Research Division, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Tehran, Iran0000-0003-0898-2435ParvaneAshouriAssociate Professor, Rangeland Research Division, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Tehran, Iran0000-0003-3094-2376RaziehSabuhiSoil Conservation and Watershed Management Research Department, Isfahan Agriculture and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, AREEO, Isfahan, Iran0000-0001-5165-570XJournal Article20240201Optimal habitat has a beneficial effect on species survival. In this research a logistic regression statistical method was used to prepare the potential distribution map of Artemisia aucheri Boiss. in 2020-2021. The maps of 19 bioclimatic and three physiographic variables with a resolution of 4.9 km under the current conditions prepared. Then, sampling information related to the presence and absence of species and environmental variables recorded and the relationship between species distribution and environmental factors determined using logistic regression. Finally, the map of potential distribution of Tehran province produced. The results of logistic regression model showed that in the current situation, 427057 hectares (31% of the province) has a probability of more than 75% presence of this species. The kappa coefficient for evaluating the regression model was 0.86, which according to Koch and Smith classification is one of the models with good accuracy. In order to study the effect of climate change on the geographical distribution of the species, climate bio maps were prepared based on the MRI-ESM2-0 circulation model and under two scenarios of 4.5 and 8.5 for 2050. The species under study is currently in the range of 1600 to 2800 meters. The results show that by changing the conditions from a balanced to a pessimistic situation, the area with a presence of more than 75% of the species decreases and the area with a presence of 25-50% increases. Also, results show that the minimum and maximum altitudes in scenario 4.5 will change to 1500 and 2500 meters, respectively. While according to scenario 8.5, the presence of this species is only at above 2500 meters. According to the 8.5 scenario, the species will migrate to higher altitudes. The results identify climate sensitive areas and possible future shelters of Artemisia aucheri Boiss for use in conservation and rangeland planning.Journal of Rangeland Science (JRS)Production of Browse Trees/Shrubs under Climate Change Conditions in the Butana Rangelands of SudanVolume 14 (2024)Issue 2, April 202420240201Production of Browse Trees/Shrubs under Climate Change Conditions in the Butana Rangelands of Sudan10.57647/j.jrs.2024.1402.14ENAbdelmalikMahmoud AbdelmalikAgricultural Research Corporation, Khartoum, SudanImadEldin A BabikirAgricultural Research Corporation, Khartoum, SudanFathielrahamanHassan Idris AjloonCollege of Biology and The Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China0000-0001-5805-9230FaisalM ElHagDirector, Dryland Research Center (DLRC) of the Agricultural Research Corporation (ARC) -Khartoum -SudanIbrahimAhmed IbrahimResearcher, Agricultural Research Corporation, SudanAbdelrahmanA KhatirAgricultural Research CorporationJournal Article20240201The study was conducted in the Butana region of Sudan to assess the impact of climate change on the browse trees/shrubs cover and production in the Butana rangelands. Five meteorological stations surrounding Butana were selected to represent the region's climate. Simple regression analysis was used to analyze the trend of climate variables (rainfall, temperature). The direct count method was used to measure browse production and a social survey was also conducted to assess farmers' perceptions on climate change. Rainfall for all meteorological stations showed a decrease in monthly and annual rainfall during 1961-2013. Annual temperature analysis indicated a noticeable increase in maximum and minimum rates at all meteorological stations since 1985. All interviewees agreed that trees/shrubs cover had decreased compared to the past. Significant differences (P< 0.05) were found in browse production between the sites during the dry (No rainfall) season. The average browse production of three sites was 310, 236, and 297kg/ha for the wet season and 247, 95, and 85 kg/ha in the dry season for El-Idaidat, El-Bahoogi, and Wad-Shamoon sites, respectively. The variation in browse production between sites was linked with tree density/ha, which was directly affected by decreasing in rainfall and increased temperatures. Seed banks in Ewerdaidat were 4 seeds/m2 while 3 seeds/m2 were found at El-Bahoogi. The study concluded that there was a decrease in rainfall and an increase in temperature during the last decade in the Butana, reflected negatively on trees/shrubs cover and its browse productivity.Journal of Rangeland Science (JRS)Determining Ecological Thresholds in Saline Habitats on Western Shore of Lake Urmia, IranVolume 14 (2024)Issue 2, April 202420240201Determining Ecological Thresholds in Saline Habitats on Western Shore of Lake Urmia, Iran10.57647/j.jrs.2024.1402.15ENJavadMotamediAssociate Professor, Rangeland Research Division, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Tehran, IranEsmaeilSheidai-KarkajAssistant Professor, Ahar Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Tabriz University, Iran.Journal Article20240201In temporal and spatial patterns, the critical (ecological) thresholds have rapid changes in ecological gradient. Determination of thresholds along the environmental gradients can help to control destructive factors and therefore, the success in restoration projects can be guaranteed. This study was conducted to evaluate the trend of changes in functional and structural indices along soil salinity gradient and to determine the ecological thresholds in saline habitats of Uremia Lake, Iran, in the growing season of 2019 and 2020. Landscape Function Analyses (LFA) guideline was used to evaluate the sites. The values of the indices were fitted with the pattern diagrams (S-shaped curves). The habitat restoration process after five years of range management and development projects was evaluated and ecological thresholds were determined. The results showed that the values of the functional and structural indices decrease along the salinity gradient and the lowest values were observed at the end points of the gradient. As a result, the success of range development projects was lower at salinity center. The results of the S-shaped curve models showed that the regression relationship between landscape organization index and nutrient cycle with eleven soil indices along the salinity gradient was not significant and their determinant coefficients were less than 50 %. On the other hand, there was a strong relationship between the index of stability and permeability with the salinity gradient, with determinant coefficients of 83 and 63%, respectively so that the values of these two indices decreased significantly when approaching the salinity center.Journal of Rangeland Science (JRS)Climate Change Implications on the Rangelands Condition in West Guji and Borana Zones, Southern EthiopiaVolume 14 (2024)Issue 2, April 202420240201Climate Change Implications on the Rangelands Condition in West Guji and Borana Zones, Southern Ethiopia10.57647/j.jrs.2024.1402.16ENTesfayeDejeneWondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources, Hawassa University, Shashemene, EthiopiaGemedoDalleCenter for Environmental Science, College of Natural and Computational Science, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaTeshaleWoldeamanuelWondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources, Hawassa University, Shashemene, EthiopiaMulukenMekuyieWondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources, Hawassa University, Shashemene, EthiopiaJournal Article20240201Climate change is one of the most serious threats to rangeland. The implications of climate change on the rangelands conditions of the Duda and Gomole in Southern Ethiopia were examined. Measurements of rangeland were made using field survey and focus group discussions. Descriptive statistics, one way ANOVA was employed to detect whether significant difference exists between range conditions, while Pearson bivariate correlation used to test the relationships between climate factors and herbaceous plants. The Mann-Kendall test was used to determine the trends of rainfall and temperatures over times; meanwhile Sen's slope estimator was used to test the magnitude of changes. The results show that no significant annual rainfall trend was in both Duda and Gomole rangelands, despite a slight increase in rainfall. However, the annual minimum temperature significantly increases in Duda rangeland, while the annual maximum temperature significantly decreases in Gomole rangeland. The major herbaceous species in Duda rangeland (Cenchrus ciliaris, Cynodon dactylon, Digitaria naghellensi, Digitaria milanjiana and Panicum maximum) had positive correlation with annual rainfall and negative correlation with minimum temperature. In the Gomole rangeland, Cenchrus ciliaris and Bothriochloa insculpta negatively correlated with minimum temperature. The Duda rangeland was in poor condition where that of Gomole was in fair condition. This difference was mainly due to slight difference between climate of Duda (arid and semi-arid) and Gomole (arid) of the rangelands. The multiple linear regression model result showed that changes in rainfall and temperature accounted for 46% of variability on Duda rangeland condition, whereas rainfall changes accounted for 32% of variability on Gomole rangeland condition. Therefore, the present study suggests rangeland rehabilitation in the short run through soil and water conservation, bush clearing and burning, and the planting of desirable grass species are critical to reduce the effects of climate change on rangeland.Journal of Rangeland Science (JRS)The Response of Topsoil Properties and Nitrogen Transformation to Land Cover in a Semi-arid Rangeland (Case Study: Kojur Rangeland in Mazandaran Province, Iran)Volume 14 (2024)Issue 2, April 202420240201The Response of Topsoil Properties and Nitrogen Transformation to Land Cover in a Semi-arid Rangeland (Case Study: Kojur Rangeland in Mazandaran Province, Iran)10.57647/j.jrs.2024.1402.17ENNastaranArmatM.Sc. Graduated, Department of Natural Resources and Marine Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Noor, Mazandaran, IranGhasemAli Dianati TilakiDepartment of Range Management, Faculty of Natural Resources, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran0000-0002-4428-0150YahyaKoochTarbiat Modares University, IranJournal Article20240201The role of different plant covers (i.e. Artemisia aucheri Boiss, Cousinia commutate Bunge and Agropyron longiaristatum Boiss) in topsoil properties and Nitrogen transformation is less known under semi-arid mountains. The main objective of this research was to study the effect of land covers on topsoil properties and nitrogen transformation. The study was carried out for investigating the soil properties of Grazing Exclusion (GE), Grazed Rangeland (GR) and Rainfed Agriculture (RA) in Kojur, Mazandaran province, Iran. Thirty-six 1m2 plots were set at three treatments to sample the dominant plant species. Soil samples were then taken from the central part of each plot sample in an area of 20×20 cm and depth of 20 cm. Our findings demonstrated that the carbon (C) content of plant materials did not differ for studied land covers whereas GR and RA had higher N content (1.48 and 1.41%, respectively) and lower C/N ratio (13.33 and 14.45%, respectively). In the GE, N concentration of soil (with 0.34%) was 1.5 times more than that in GR and RA (0.20 and 0.21%, respectively). Soil nitrification and N mineralization rates were significantly higher in the GE (0.33 and 0.28 mg kg−1d−1 respectively) as compared to the RA (0.15 and 0.08 mg kg−1d−1 respectively) and GR (0.01 and 0.04 mg kg−1d−1 respectively). There were no significant differences among land covers for bulk density, available K, microbial respiration, and ammonification rates. According to the results, grazing exclusion with presence of grass species increases the organic C contents, total N, and eventually, N mineralization which totally leads to improved soil quality in these regions.