Global Study Reveals Devastating Impact of Prolonged Extreme Drought on Grassland Ecosystems
A comprehensive global study led by Colorado State University demonstrates that extreme, prolonged drought conditions in grassland ecosystems cause productivity losses more than twice as severe as moderate droughts. The research, involving over 170 scientists worldwide, suggests climate change may increase frequency of Dust Bowl-type drought events with profound ecological consequences.
Unprecedented Productivity Decline in Grasslands
According to reports from a massive international research initiative, extreme multi-year drought conditions are causing unprecedented declines in plant productivity across global grassland and shrubland ecosystems. The study, led by researchers from Colorado State University and published in Science, reveals that prolonged extreme drought leads to productivity losses more than double those observed during moderate drought conditions.