In a new study, researchers from SLU and Kenya has studied the role of trees in multi-functional landscapes of Africa. In general, trees in the agricultural landscape were positive, but in some cases a decline in production of particular crops was noted as a trade-off.
When agriculture expands and is intensified it often results in a decline of biodiversity and ecosystem services. In order to restore important ecosystem services, multi-functional landscapes are often argued for. Besides food and fibre, the aim of multifunctional landscapes is to benefit various beneficial organisms, including insects that can pollinate crops, natural enemies that combat pests and organisms in the soil that affect nutrient and water flow.
A litterature study of ecosystem services from trees on farms
In a new study, researchers from SLU has, together with colleagues from JKUAT (Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology) and ICRAF (World Agroforestry Centre) in Kenya studied what role trees play in multi-functional landscapes of Africa. In total, 350 journal articles published between 1995-2014 were assessed.
The literature review showed that trees on farms and in agricultural landscapes in most cases result in improved food security via, e.g., reduced pest problems, improved soil fertility and water regulation. The positive effects were most consistent in semi-arid areas. In general, trees in the agricultural landscape were positive, but in some cases a decline in production of particular crops was noted as a trade-off.
Many important values have been overlooked
– Very few of the available studies had investigated the production of wood, medicinal products, fruits and nuts, and no studies had looked at cultural ecosystem services such as recreation and spiritual values. This makes it difficult to establish all the synergies and trade-offs associated with trees in the landscape. In addition, most studies on ecosystem services are carried out at a field scale although the potential benefits of the ecosystem services are at farm or landscape scales, says Mattias Jonsson, one of the researchers behind the study.
Promoting ecosystem services leads to better crop production in the long run
In the study, the researchers also stress that longer-term trends and benefits can be missed when focusing on short-term gains. By promoting ecosystem services, soil fertility is increased and therefore also, in the long run, crop production.
Natural treatments: Natural cures for ED are the safest means for treating the disease as they pose no threat sales here online cialis to the overall health of men. best price for levitra But the problem comes when people get furious with some inferior quality products which worsen their condition. As a parent, on the other hand, men who wake and go for walk or exercise make free viagra canada a great contribution for prevention of the country. Also, it can be used when there is unexplained infertility, decreased price of viagra pills mobility of sperms, low sperm count, requirement of sperms from donors.