Here we introduce the BIODESERT survey, the first systematic field survey devoted to evaluating the joint impacts of grazing by domestic livestock and climate on the structure and functioning of dryland ecosystems worldwide. We describe the major characteristics and the field protocols used in this survey and the organizational aspects followed to carry it out succesfully.

Forest–steppe habitats have contrasting canopy structure with strong influence on the spatio-temporal variability of ecosystem functions. In our study, environmental and functional variables were evaluated in this transition zone. We found that topography and vegetation structure have co-varying effects on abiotic–biotic factors. Our observations are valuable for assessing the dynamics of functional and driving variables in this natural transition zone of the temperate vegetation.

The Roman snail has a high conservation status in Germany, and it is important to study the impact of predators and parasites on local populations. Morphometric traits and signs of external attack and internal utilization were studied in eight subpopulations. External attacks by predators were more frequently recorded on larger shells, while internal utilization depended on body density and local soil pH values. This highlights the value of abiotic habitat conditions and trophic interactions.

Can organisms other than vascular plants establish and develop on road slopes? Yes, biological soil crusts (or biocrusts) can. Here, we found that lichen biocrusts are common and relatively abundant in road slopes after ~20 years of construction with no assistance needed. These findings are of critical importance for dryland restoration because biocrusts can speed up ecosystem recovery by stabilizing soil surface, improving soil fertility and facilitating vascular plant establishment.

In this study we assessed carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus in soil and soil microbial biomass subject to conventional farming and three different organic farming practices. The results showed that microbial biomass was P-limited in soils subject to conventional farming and to organic farming with alfalfa green manure. Organic farming with compost amendment showed the best results in terms of microbial performance.