Why might a trophic cascade linked to large terrestrial mammals manifest over decades?

Answer

Because terrestrial cascades depend on the slow growth rates of trees and shrubs.

Terrestrial cascades involving large mammals like elk often take years or decades to manifest their full effects because the primary producers, such as trees and shrubs, grow relatively slowly.

Why might a trophic cascade linked to large terrestrial mammals manifest over decades?
EcologyEcosystemPredatortrophic cascadefood web