Current agricultural paradigms prioritise yield while overlooking crops’ contributions to ecosystem functioning. In this Perspective paper, we reframe crops as active providers of multiple ecosystem services. We propose a trait–process–service framework linking functional traits to ecological processes and service delivery, enabling systematic comparisons across species and varieties. Crops should be evaluated not only for yield, but also for their multiple ecological contributions, informing breeding, management and policy decisions.
Reframing crops as multifunctional: a trait-based approach for sustainable agriculture
Mastronardi, Maria Grazia;Crudele, Marco;Didonna, Adriano;Laterza, Ilaria;Somma, Annalisa;Guerriero, Marzia;Pavan, Stefano;Santamaria, Pietro;De Miccolis Angelini, Rita Milvia;Tamburini, Giovanni
2026-01-01
Abstract
Current agricultural paradigms prioritise yield while overlooking crops’ contributions to ecosystem functioning. In this Perspective paper, we reframe crops as active providers of multiple ecosystem services. We propose a trait–process–service framework linking functional traits to ecological processes and service delivery, enabling systematic comparisons across species and varieties. Crops should be evaluated not only for yield, but also for their multiple ecological contributions, informing breeding, management and policy decisions.File in questo prodotto:
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