Patchiness of productivity

Species composition (W, A, P, PU) controlled by extreme years (decline in W); grazing (species, intensity – P:PU)

Patchiness of productivity

Species composition(W, A, P, PU)controlled by extreme years(decline in W); grazing(species, intensity – P:PU)

Patchiness of productivity

Species composition(W, A, P, PU)controlled by extreme years(decline in W); grazing(species, intensity – P:PU)

Key ecosystem processes: competition; fuel accumulation; and their interaction with drivers (rainfall, fire, grazing)

cycles (weed suppression) weeds (Striga) (E)

- Reliance on imported nutrients - ISFM, rotation, tillage (C)

cycles (weed suppression) weeds (Striga) (E)

- Reliance on imported nutrients - ISFM, rotation, tillage (C)

cycles (weed suppression) weeds (Striga) (E)

- Reliance on imported nutrients - ISFM, rotation, tillage (C)

Germplasm adapted to sub-optimal conditions now in short supply

To what extent are we aware of the long-term consequences of the focus on maximizing short-term returns?

To what extent are we aware of the interaction of local and higher-level variables, and of social, political, technological and biophysical variables, in producing outcomes?

Under what conditions do “command-and-control” type interventions enhance resilience by improving incomes and capacity to ‘weather’ shocks? Under what conditions do they enhance vulnerability (e.g. deplete natural capital or sources of novelty, enhance “brittleness” / susceptibility to shocks)?