Further Considerations on the Debate Over Herbivore Optimization Theory

Criticism of the basis and use of the herbivore optimization theory is discussed. It is argued here that evidence from theory and agricultural practice support the view that compensation and overcompensation of total primary production can occur in plant populations and communities subjected to grazing. However, whether this will occur depends on specific circumstances. Modeling and carefully designed field studies should be used to determine the responses of rangeland systems under a variety of environmental conditions and grazing intensities.