Overstocking can have long-term impacts on soil carbon sequestration and soil degradation in arid areas of South Africa. In mesic grasslands, overstocking can lead to damage to above-ground tissues and buds of prostrate hemicryptophytes. Overstocking has been blamed for the deterioration of South African grasslands, particularly in the Tall Grassveld of Natal.

In general, overstocking can lead to a number of consequences, including:

• Soil degradation: Overstocking can lead to soil compaction, erosion, and nutrient depletion, which can have long-term impacts on soil health and productivity.

• Reduced vegetation cover: Overstocking can lead to overgrazing, which can reduce vegetation cover and lead to soil erosion.

• Reduced biodiversity: Overstocking can lead to a reduction in plant and animal biodiversity, as certain species may be more susceptible to overgrazing than others.

• Reduced productivity: Overstocking can lead to reduced productivity of both livestock and crops, as soil degradation and reduced vegetation cover can limit the availability of nutrients and water.

• Increased costs: Overstocking can lead to increased costs associated with soil restoration, reseeding, and other management practices.

In addition, overstocking can lead to storage costs, product expiration, and loss of profit margin in retail settings.

Overall, overstocking can have significant long-term impacts on both natural and human systems, and it is important to manage stocking rates carefully to avoid these consequences.