Grazers and fires: Their role in shaping the structure and functioning of the Río de la Plata Grasslands

The Río de la Plata Grasslands (RPG) are one of the largest areas open ecosystems (grasslands, shrublands and savannas) in world. Historically, these systems have experienced, continue to experience, an enormous loss natural habitats. Moreover, their importance has been largely invisible comparison forested systems. remaining area RPG region varies according source from 38 58% original area. Open Ecosystems (OE) a special case agroecosystems because they can combine supply both provisioning regulating supporting ecosystem services (ES). Preserving provision ES habitats depends, part, on understanding role two main disturbances operating them: grazing fire. Although components OE, manipulated by humans. In this paper we reviewed played fire structure functioning starting late Pleistocene Holocene, summarizing current evidence effects vegetation, fauna biogeochemical processes. indicates that among agricultural activities, direct OE lowest environmental footprint. At same time key for habitat preservation supply. Overall, still represent high proportion area, capable covering 2.5% world’s population needs quality protein and, at time, guarding regulation