Question

How does trampling affect plant growth?

Answer 1

Plant growth is defined as the permanent change in cell and organ size that occurs as a result of cell division and enlargement. Plant development refers to the course of a seed from germination to maturity.
In everyday conversation, the terms "growth" and "development" are frequently interchanged. Growth and development are two independent phases in the organisation and construction of a mature plant and its body components, according to science. Plant growth and development are time-consuming and difficult processes.

Complete answer:
Some plants, such as grass, are highly suited to trampling due to their intercalary meristems. Trampling, on the other hand, can have a direct impact on plants by damaging meristems, which can destroy leaves, stems, fruits, and flowers. It has the potential to have a long-term impact on soil.
When compared to typical soil compaction, the short-term impacts of trampling on plants to the shoot system are less likely to be an issue. Soil compaction restricts the availability of water and air to the roots, resulting in overall plant health problems. Damage to the shoot system can also result in dieback and infection-prone exposed wounds.
Trampling can have direct effects on plants, such as breaking stems and growth points, destroying photosynthetic organs (leaves), harming above-ground reproductive components, and so on, or indirect effects, such as soil compaction, which can have its own set of consequences.

Note:
Trampling impacts on vegetation are-
Breakage and bruising of stems
Reduced plant vigour
Reduced plant regeneration
Loss of vegetation ground cover
Loss of vegetation diversity
Trampling impacts on soil-
Loss of organic matter
Reduced soil porosity
Decrease in air water permeability
Increase in runoff
Accelerated erosion