Type: Abundance and Species Richness

Justification: Plant diversity is a key indicator of the overall health of the grasslands. Plants are the primary producers and create habitats for other organisms. Their sensitivity to soil structure and composition changes makes them early indicators of environmental shifts. Preservation of plant diversity is critical to counter the loss due to agricultural expansion.

Type: Abundance and Species Richness

Justification: Butterflies are vital as indicator species due to their sensitivity to environmental and anthropogenic disturbances. They play key roles as pollinators and primary consumers in high nature value (HNV) grasslands. Their diversity signifies the continuation of low-impact farming practices.

Type: Abundance and Species Richness

Justification: Birds are effective indicator species due to their broad geographical ranges and sensitivity to environmental changes. Stable bird populations indicate successful biodiversity preservation and minimal habitat degradation.

Type: Biomass

Justification: Agricultural intensification often leads to increased pesticide use, reducing arthropod populations. Stable or improving arthropod populations in this project will indicate successful prevention of HNV grasslands conversion to industrial agriculture.

Type: Biomass and Species Richness

Justification: Soil invertebrates are crucial for maintaining nutrient levels and soil structure, essential for a diverse plant community. Their biomass and species richness are important indicators of project success, particularly in the face of threats from agricultural intensification.

Type: Abundance and Species Richness

Justification: Herpetofauna, as mesopredators, are integral to a balanced food web. Their diversity and abundance in HNV grasslands are key indicators of a healthy plant community and the provision of essential ecosystem functions like shelter.