Fir expansion not controlled by moderate densities of large herbivores: a Mediterranean mountain grassland conservation issue

Key message Whilst livestock has maintained grasslands over centuries in south European mountains, current ungulate densities are insufficient to control tree and forest expansion effectively. The present results based on fir population dynamics and radial/height growth raise questions about the sustainable management of new forests that are former mountain grasslands. This empirical case study contributes to debate about methods for long-term management of grasslands in Mediterranean mountains.