Impact of Climate Change on Plant Diversity in Tropical Rainforests
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47672/ajns.2041Keywords:
Climate Change, Plant Diversity, Tropical RainforestsAbstract
Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of climate change on plant diversity in tropical rainforests.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: The study found that these ecosystems are known for their high biodiversity, they are increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events are disrupting the delicate balance of these ecosystems, leading to shifts in plant distribution and abundance. Studies suggest that certain plant species may struggle to adapt to rapidly changing conditions, leading to local extinctions and loss of biodiversity. Additionally, climate change is expected to exacerbate existing threats such as habitat destruction and fragmentation, further compromising the resilience of tropical rainforest ecosystems. Conservation efforts that prioritize habitat preservation, restoration, and assisted migration strategies may be crucial in mitigating the impacts of climate change on plant diversity in these vital ecosystems.
Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Theory of climate change and species interactions, theory of ecological resilience and theory of biotic homogenization may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the impact of climate change on plant diversity in tropical rainforests. Conservation practitioners should prioritize the implementation of adaptive management strategies that promote the resilience of tropical rainforest ecosystems in the face of climate change. Policymakers should enact legislation and policies that integrate climate change adaptation and biodiversity conservation efforts within tropical rainforest regions.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Albert Ilunga
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