On the vegetation history of calcareous grasslands in the Franconian Jura (Germany) since the Bronze Age ; with 30 tables

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In Central Europe, calcareous grasslands have developed primarily due to human activities such as burning, grazing, and hay-making. These grasslands are among the most species-rich habitats in the region, yet the factors contributing to their biodiversity remain poorly understood. The history of land use and the age of ecosystems significantly influence species richness, but the timeline for the emergence of man-made dry grasslands is largely unknown. Notably, no studies have been conducted on the origins of dry grasslands in the central distribution area of the Jurassic mountains, specifically the Swabian and Franconian Jura. In the vicinity of Kallmünz, three complementary methods—primarily palynological and anthracological analyses—have been employed to reconstruct the vegetation history of specific calcareous grasslands since the Bronze Age. First, pollen analysis provides insights into local and regional vegetation history. Second, charcoal analysis aids in reconstructing forest composition, utilizing various geo-archives: charcoals from archaeological excavations of prehistoric settlements, charcoals from soils of contemporary grasslands (pedoanthracological studies), and charcoals from historic kiln sites. This approach reveals the local vegetation history. Lastly, a GIS-based analysis of historical maps and farmland consolidation records has been used to trace the development of grasslands in modern times.