| dc.description.abstract | Mowing, as a management practice, can impact the species richness and abundance of both plants and pollinators and the interaction between them by altering the plant-pollinator dynamics and their relationship. The main aim of the study is to compare the species diversity, abundance, and interactions of flower resources and pollinators between mowed and unmowed grassland plots in an urban setting. The study was conducted in Trondheim, Norway across six sites in 4 different seasons from mid-June to mid-August with mowed and unmowed plots. The results showed that both plants, pollinators, and the interaction between them were significantly higher in unmowed grasslands than mowed grasslands. Total pollinators counts were approximately 8 times, bumblebees approximately 7 times and butterflies approximately 3 times more in unmowed grasslands compared to mowed grasslands. Seasons also significantly impacted plants and pollinator's species richness and abundance. The flowering plant's interaction with pollinators peaked in late July (3rd season), contrasting with its lowest point in mid-June (1st season), showcasing distinct seasonal effects on their interaction. The mowed grassland plots had a notably low count of bumblebees, butterflies, and other pollinator groups. Mowing should be scheduled to avoid periods of peak flowering and high pollinator activity. Aligning the mowing frequency with these seasonal patterns is important. This strategy helps maintain favorable conditions for both the flowering plants and pollinators in grassland environments. | |
