Heathland-clearing effects on mountain grassland floral resources and pollinator community

Extensive grassland management must balance both conservation goals and extensive livestock farming. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the effect of clearing on floral resources available for pollinators and on pollinator community. For this, vegetation, flower abundance, and arthropod community were sampled in heath-cleared and not-cleared sites. Results showed that clearing reduced floral resources (mainly Ulex gallii, Erica cinerea, and E. ciliaris) and arthropod diversity. In addition, all vegetation, floral, arthropod, and pollinator community composition were altered by the treatment. In conclusion, clearing actions should be carefully planned and alternated to always guarantee enough food across the landscape for pollinator conservation.