Ecological network analysis to link interactions between system components and performances in multispecies livestock farms

• DOI: 10.1007/s13593-021-00696-x
• Publication Date: 2021-05-28T09:11:28Z
• Authors: Lucille Steinmetz; Patrick Veysset; Marc Benoit; Bertrand Dumont
• Keywords: Material flow analysis; Ecological network

Abstract Organic farming relies on ecological processes to replace chemical inputs, and organic farmers have developed various strategies, including several forms of diversification, remain viable. Herein, we hypothesized that diversified systems can enhance their performance by increasing the level interactions between system components. We therefore performed an network analysis characterize both within-farm farm-environment interactions. Flows were expressed annual basis according quantity biomass exchanges multiplied nitrogen content. Seventeen farms surveyed in French grassland areas, each associating beef cattle with either sheep, pigs, or poultry. The was then coupled assessment farm economic, environmental, social performances. A hierarchical clustering principal components distinguished five groups based herd size, presence monogastrics, percentage crops area, activity indicators. large terms area number workers, limit implementation a homogeneous flow within system. higher within-system did not lead better Systems monogastric production enterprises highly dependent which led less networks poor balance without gaining economic efficiency. Managing complex dense appear increase farmers’ mental workload. To our knowledge, this study is first quantify farm-scale using indicators temperate livestock analyze links operating processes. thus potentially provides common framework for comparing wide range farms. Given variability multispecies farms, larger database will be used extend conclusions.