Agroscope’s Post

#AgrarForschungSchweiz – Die Ausbreitung der Grünerle auf Weideflächen verringert die #Artenvielfalt, die Futterqualität und die Attraktivität der Landschaft. Die Beweidung mit #Ziegen kann die Ausbreitung der Grünerle aufhalten und die Weidevegetation wiederherstellen. ➡️ https://lnkd.in/d9zNhujF 🐐🌿🐐 #RechercheAgronomiqueSuisse – L'invasion des pâturages par l'aulne vert réduit la #biodiversité, diminue la qualité fourragère des pâturages et dégrade la qualité du paysage. La pâture des #chèvres peut contribuer à limiter ce processus et à restaurer la végétation des pâturages. ➡️ https://lnkd.in/djavpgMT 🐐🌿🐐 #SwissAgriculturalResearch – The green alder encroachment of summer pastures reduces #biodiversity, forage quality, and landscape attractiveness. #Goat grazing can help limit this process and restore pasture vegetation. ➡️ https://lnkd.in/dtKhUsF9 Pierre Mariotte, Massimiliano Probo, Lucia Sol Mochi #Alpen #Alpes #Alps #Mountain

Cattleya bicolor, commonly known as the Bicolored Cattleya, belongs to the subgenus Schomburgkoidea and was first described by John Lindley in 1836. Taxonomically, it has a complex history, with numerous synonyms and varietal classifications, reflecting its diverse forms. Some notable synonyms include Cattleya bicolor f. alba and Cattleya dupontii, among others. This orchid is characterized by its medium to large size and distinctively grooved, clustered pseudobulbs that carry two oblong-lorate leaves. The flower, typically measuring about 4 inches (10 cm), is not only visually striking but also emits a heavy, spicy fragrance, making it a sought-after species in horticulture. In its natural habitat, Cattleya bicolor thrives in the humid, tropical regions of southeastern Brazil, particularly in the states of Espírito Santo, Minas Gerais, and São Paulo. Preferring cool to warm growing conditions, this orchid is typically found growing on trees in well-drained, organic substrates. The blooming period occurs primarily in the spring and early summer, with occasional flowering in the fall. Cattleya bicolor’s ability to adapt to varying environmental conditions has allowed it to flourish in its native regions, where it enjoys the dappled sunlight of the rainforest canopy. Caring for Cattleya bicolor requires an understanding of its specific environmental needs. It thrives in bright, indirect light and appreciates humidity levels around 50-70%. Regular watering is essential, but care should be taken to avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilization during the growing season with a balanced orchid fertilizer will promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. With proper care, Cattleya bicolor can be a long-lived and rewarding addition to any orchid collection, showcasing its stunning flowers and delightful scent. #cattleya #cattleyaspecies #cattleyabicolor #amazoniaorchids #orchids #orchidspecies

😮 Des loups qui pollinisent des fleurs ?! Suite à une drôle d'observation parue dans le journal "The Scientific Naturalist" cette semaine, je dois rajouter un terme à mon vocabulaire déjà super large de types de pollinisations. Vous connaissiez la chiroptérophilie ? La pollinisation par les chauves-souris ?  Vous connaissez la thérophilie ? Celle par les mammifères non volants ?  Découvrez la canidophilie !  Le loup éthiopien (Canis simensis) a été observé entrain de consommer le nectar de Kniphofia foliosa, emportant au passage une large quantité de pollen. C'est la première observation directe d'un grand mammifère entrain de consommer du nectar dans la nature !  Bien que l'article ne prouve pas formellement que le loup soit un pollinisateur efficace de la plante en question, cela ouvre des portes à l'étude de nouvelles interactions plantes-pollinisateurs !  L'article dont est tiré la découverte et la photo : https://lnkd.in/dwZtXyF9 #botany #nature #environnement #pollinisation Association des Amis du Jardin Botanique Universitaire de Strasbourg Jardin des Sciences Tela Botanica

Just after the last autumn leaves have fallen, November brings another rich source of seasonal color: winterberry (Ilex verticillata). This is a popular deciduous shrub because of its clusters of bright red berries that persist through the winter. Growing six to ten feet in height and spreading to form colonies, winterberry provides late-season interest in the landscape. Like most hollies, this one has separate female and male plants, so to ensure fruit production, plant both. In spring, the small, white male and female flowers are a good source of nectar and pollen for early pollinators. Plant this shrub in groupings along the edges of ponds or wetlands, or as an informal hedge. Holly berries, including winterberries, are not especially nutritious for wildlife, as evidenced by their persistence through the winter. Birds and mammals know which fruit has the most energy and fat, and those are consumed first. However, as we are currently deep in a drought, wildlife have fewer food options than usual, so do not be surprised if the birds get to those winterberries before you can enjoy their prolonged splendor! —Director of Horticulture Uli Lorimer Photo: Winterberry (Ilex verticillata), © Leslie Duthie #nativeplanttrust #nativeplants #nativeshrubs #winterberry #ilexverticillata #deciduousholly #redberries #winterinterest

Retour de la conférence « hedgerow UK » par Lisa Norton (https://lnkd.in/etXgnKMX) Cette conférence rapporte la dernière évaluation de l’état des haies en Angleterre qui fait suite aux diverses évaluations des haies organisées dans le cadre du Countryside Survey ». Ceci permet d’avoir une évolution des haies depuis la fin des années 1970. J’étais invité comme discutant, je fréquente ce monde des haies anglaises depuis 40 ans. J’ai abordé 1) l’importance de ces suivis qui ont plutôt du mal à se mettre en place en France ; 2) la différence culturelle de la représentation du rôle des haies entre le Royaume Uni et la France : schématiquement, au Royaume Uni les haies sont des limites de propriété et des habitats pour un certain nombre d’espèces végétales et animales. La production de bois, le rôle de régulation hydrologique sont mineurs, contrairement à la France. Il en résulte que les critères d’une « belle haie » sont assez éloignés de celle du « Label Haie », cf https://lnkd.in/eKr8GbC4 sur « definition of favourable conservation status for hedgerow ». J’ai aussi remarqué que l’on en restait aux « haies » sans évaluation de la structure du réseau. Les principales conclusions de la conférence ont été : 1) il faudrait augmenter d e61% la longueur des haies en Angleterre pour que la situation soit favorable. 2) Les haies sous gestion AES (Agri-Environment Schemes) ont montré une légère amélioration de leur condition structurelle. 3) Les efforts de plantation et de restauration des haies sont en augmentation, mais beaucoup de nouvelles haies sont plantées en dehors des schémas AES. Et 4) En 2023/24, 55% des haies atteignaient les critères de condition structurelle, avec une amélioration par rapport à 2007. Les haies au Royaume-Uni ont été étudiées dans le cadre de plusieurs enquêtes, notamment le GB Countryside Survey et le Northern Ireland Countryside Survey. Les recherches ont soutenu l'introduction des Hedgerow Regulations et la définition du Favourable Conservation Status (FCS) pour les haies en Angleterre. Pour atteindre le FCS en Angleterre, il faudrait augmenter la longueur des haies rurales de 61%. L'enquête en Angleterre de 2022/23 a cartographié les haies et collecté des données sur leur gestion, composition des espèces, et état structurel. Les haies sous gestion AES (Agri-Environment Schemes) ont montré une légère amélioration de leur condition structurelle. La richesse en espèces de la flore au sol a diminué entre 1990 et 2022/23. Les efforts de plantation et de restauration des haies sont en augmentation, mais beaucoup de nouvelles haies sont plantées en dehors des schémas AES. En 2023/24, 55% des haies atteignaient les critères de condition structurelle, avec une amélioration par rapport à 2007.

The Fascinating World of Pandas Pandas, with their iconic black-and-white markings and gentle demeanor, have captured the hearts of people around the globe. Native to the bamboo forests of China, the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) is not just a symbol of conservation but also a remarkable species with unique behaviors and adaptations. #Habitat and #Diet Giant pandas are primarily found in the mountainous regions of central China, where they inhabit temperate forests rich in bamboo. Despite being classified as carnivores, pandas have a diet that consists overwhelmingly of bamboo—about 99% of their food intake. They require a significant amount of bamboo to sustain themselves, consuming anywhere from 20 to 40 pounds per day. Their strong jaw muscles and specialized molars enable them to crush bamboo with ease, making the most of this fibrous plant. #Physical_Characteristics Adult giant pandas typically weigh between 220 to 330 pounds, with males being slightly larger than females. Their distinctive black and white fur serves as camouflage in the dappled light of the forest, helping them evade predators. Additionally, pandas have a unique adaptation in their front paws—a “pseudo-thumb” that is actually a modified wrist bone, allowing them to grasp bamboo stalks effectively. #Behavior and #Social_Structure Pandas are generally solitary creatures, with each individual having a defined territory. They communicate through vocalizations and scent markings, which help to establish their presence in the area. Mating season occurs in the spring, and females are only in heat for a short window of 24 to 72 hours. After successful mating, a female panda usually gives birth to one or two cubs, though raising twins can be challenging, leading many mothers to focus on just one. Cubs are born blind and weigh about as much as a cup of tea. They rely heavily on their mothers for nourishment and protection during the early months of life. As they grow, cubs begin to explore their surroundings and learn essential survival skills. #Conservation_Status Giant pandas have faced significant threats due to habitat loss and fragmentation, primarily caused by agricultural expansion and logging. They were once classified as endangered, but thanks to extensive conservation efforts, including habitat preservation and breeding programs, their status has improved to "vulnerable." Organizations and governments continue to work tirelessly to ensure the survival of this beloved species. #Cultural_Significance Pandas hold a special place in Chinese culture

Wie wirkt sich der Anteil an #Biodiversitätsförderfläche auf die Artenvielfalt eines Betriebs aus? Die Bewirtschaftung von landwirtschaftlichen Flächen als Biodiversitätsförderfläche (BFF) wirkt positiv auf ihre Artenvielfalt. Agroscope untersuchte nun, wie es um die Wirkung dieser Agrarumweltmassnahme auf die Nicht-BFF steht. ➡️ https://lnkd.in/drepJJsq 🌼 🌸 🏵️ 🌺 Effet de la proportion de surface de promotion de la #biodiversité sur la diversité des espèces d’une exploitation: L’exploitation de terres agricoles en surfaces de promotion de la biodiversité (SPB) a un effet positif sur leur diversité en termes d’espèces. Dans la présente étude Agroscope s’est intéressé à l’effet de cette mesure agro-environnementale sur les parcelles qui ne sont pas des SPB. ➡️ https://lnkd.in/dvHiCuVr 🌼 🌸 🏵️ 🌺 How does the share of farmland classified as ecological focus area affect farm #biodiversity? Managing farmland as an Ecological Focus Area (EFA) has a positive impact on its biodiversity. Agroscope has now investigated the effect of implementing this agri-environmental measure on non-EFAs. ➡️ https://lnkd.in/d7Q89s86 #Biodiversität #AgrarForschungSchweiz #RechercheAgronomiqueSuisse #SwissAgriculturalResearch #AgrarForschung #RechercheAgronomique

Some trees retain their leaves through winter, while others shed them in autumn. The phenomenon of clinging leaves, known as marcescence, affects some trees, often oaks and beech, more than others. As it turns out, the marcescent species lack the enzymes needed to shed their leaves. The reason for this is not fully understood, but some suggest that it confers some protection from deer browsing, or that the shedding of leaves in spring provides a nutrient benefit through delayed decomposition in the soil. Whatever the reason, marcescence adds a welcome rustling sound and a hint of brown to the winter landscape. —Director of Horticulture Uli Lorimer Photo: American beech (Fagus grandiflora) displaying marcescence, Uli Lorimer ©Native Plant Trust #nativeplanttrust #newengland #newenglandnativeplants #marcescence #beech #oaks #leavesstayingontrees #wintertrees #newenglandwinter #foresttrees #beechleaves

☀ Grande fierté ! ☀ Je suis très heureux de vous partager une lecture passionnante (en anglais) à laquelle j’ai eu le privilège de contribuer ! 🦊 📚 Il s’agit d’une publication scientifique intitulée : "Canids as Pollinators? Nectar foraging by Ethiopian wolves may contribute to the pollination of Kniphofia foliosa", publiée dans la très sérieuse revue Américaine ECOLOGY Ecological Society of America. https://lnkd.in/dXzxZKUJ Un titre un peu long, je vous l’accorde ! Mais derrière cela se cache une hypothèse fascinante : et si les loups d’Abyssinie, en recherchant le nectar des kniphofia, contribuaient sans le savoir à la pollinisation de ces magnifiques plantes ? 🐝 🌼 Cela révèle un comportement unique chez mon loup favori ! Un petit pas vers la compréhension de ces prédateurs fascinants et de leur rôle écologique bien plus complexe qu’on ne le pensait ! ➡ Découvrez cette publication scientifique et laissez-vous surprendre par cette découverte inédite ! Par Sandra Lai, Don-Jean Léandri-Breton, Adrien Lesaffre*, Abdi Samune, Jorgelina Marino, Claudio Sillero-Zubiri *Fièrement illustré de certaines de mes images (presque inédites !!!) #LoupDAbyssinie #Pollinisation #Science #Nature #EthiopianWolves #Conservation #Découverte

🌿 **Boost Biodiversity: Plant Native Lupines in Your Landscape! 🌿** As landscape industry professionals, we constantly seek ways to enhance the beauty and sustainability of our designs. A recent article from The Cooldown sheds light on a critical issue right here in Vermont: the endangerment of native lupines and their vital role in our ecosystem. **Why Native Lupines?** Native lupines are not just stunning additions to any garden; they are essential for the survival of the Karner Blue Butterfly, whose caterpillars depend exclusively on these plants for nourishment. However, these lupines face threats from invasive non-native species that risk disrupting local ecosystems. **Current Trends in Landscaping** 1. **Ecological Landscaping:** There’s a growing push towards using native plants to promote local biodiversity and sustainability. 2. **Habitat Restoration:** Increasing awareness of endangered species ties into broader efforts to create habitats that support wildlife. 3. **Community Engagement:** Homeowners and businesses are more inclined towards making environmentally conscious choices. **Implications for Our Industry** Reintroducing native lupines into local gardens and landscapes is not just an ecological choice but a movement towards more mindful and sustainable landscaping practices. It promotes biodiversity, supports the Karner Blue Butterfly, and helps restore the delicate balance of our ecosystems. **Professional Call to Action:** Let’s lead by example! Consider incorporating native lupines into your next landscaping project. Share your experiences and insights on promoting native flora in our designs. How have you tackled the challenge of balancing beauty with biodiversity? 🌼 **Join the conversation and share your thoughts below!** 🌼 For more ideas on integrating native plants into your landscapes, visit our website at [LawnEdge](https://lawnedge.company). #Biodiversity #Landscaping #NativePlants #Sustainability #KarnBlueButterfly #VermontEco