grassland

Grassland is a biome characterized by dominance of grasses and herbaceous plants, with sparse tree cover. It occurs in temperate and tropical regions where climatic conditions favor grasses over woody plants. Two major subtypes are temperate grasslands, including prairies, steppes, and veld, and tropical grasslands, typically called savannas. Fire, drought, and grazing by herbivores help maintain the open, herbaceous structure and prevent forest encroachment.

Flora includes grasses adapted to grazing and drought, along with a variety of forbs. Grasses often have deep, extensive root systems that support rapid regrowth and contribute to soil stability. Soils in grassland regions are typically deep and fertile, including mollisols and chernozems, rich in organic matter and capable of supporting high productivity for grazing and crops.

Grasslands host a diversity of fauna, from large ungulates and their predators to numerous birds, rodents, and insects. Seasonal migrations are common in tropical grasslands, while temperate grasslands support resident and migratory species. The ecosystem is shaped by disturbances such as fire and grazing, which promote diversity and regeneration but can degrade when intensity exceeds ecological thresholds.

Human use includes grazing for livestock and, in some regions, crop production on grasses’ fertile soils. Grasslands are increasingly threatened by overgrazing, conversion to cropland, urbanization, invasive species, and climate change. Conservation and sustainable management strategies include rotational grazing, fire management, restoration with native species, and protecting remaining habitats in reserves.

Grasslands cover substantial portions of the globe and play a key role in carbon storage, soil formation, water regulation, and cultural landscapes. They support livelihoods in many regions and contribute to biodiversity and ecosystem services.