Photo credit: www.conservation.org
Conservation efforts are underpinned by scientific research. Below is a summary of recent findings from experts at Conservation International that highlight the urgent need to protect our natural world.
1. A Significant Proportion of Plant Species Threatened with Extinction
A staggering 40 percent of plant species worldwide are classified as “very rare,” having been recorded fewer than five times, indicating a high risk of extinction accelerated by climate change, according to a new report.
The research, conducted by Conservation International scientist Patrick Roehrdanz alongside other experts over the past decade, involved analyzing over 20 million records of terrestrial plants, making it one of the largest datasets compiled in this field.
The study reveals that out of 435,000 documented land plant species, 158,000 face extinction threats. Climate change and habitat destruction have emerged as the primary drivers behind this alarming trend, which risks inducing a mass extinction event that could greatly diminish plant diversity globally. This, in turn, could have adverse effects on wildlife habitats and soil health, hindering ecosystem stability. Research underscores the potential negative consequences for ecosystems that rely on these plants.
“By identifying where these rare species thrive, we can better illustrate the dual dangers posed by climate change and human activity in areas rich in biodiversity,” Roehrdanz stated. “This underscores the necessity for targeted conservation initiatives to safeguard these vital ecosystems.”
2. Unique Flora of New Guinea Faces Climate Threats
New Guinea, recognized as a biodiversity hotspot, is experiencing the repercussions of climate change on its native plant species, warn researchers in a recent study.
This tropical island is home to over 9,000 endemic plant species. Researchers developed models to assess current distributions of these species while predicting their future viability under various climate change scenarios, including prolonged winters and elevated temperatures. The findings indicate dire prospects.
By 2070, it is anticipated that around 63 percent of New Guinea’s plant species will see a reduction in their geographic range, translating to an estimated loss of 30 to 110 species across various regions.
“The shifting ranges of these plant species will have profound implications for both the ecosystem and the local populations that depend on them for food, medicine, and construction materials,” noted Roehrdanz, a co-author of the study. Many indigenous communities consider these plant species integral to their cultural practices, using them in traditional clothing and rituals. Recognizing the potential impacts of climate change on New Guinea’s flora is essential for informing conservation strategies and pinpointing areas that would benefit most from restoration efforts.
3. Adapting Ocean Conservation in Response to Marine Life Shifts
A newly released report calls for innovative approaches to enhance ocean conservation amidst the challenges posed by climate change.
Marine protected areas (MPAs), regions of the ocean designated for limited human activity, have been at the forefront of conservation strategies. However, the accelerating climate crisis threatens to undercut their effectiveness as rising water temperatures and increasing acidification cause fish species to migrate.
“The findings reinforce the necessity for new tools to keep fishers updated as marine species relocate,” said Lee Hannah, senior scientist specializing in climate change biology at Conservation International and co-author of the report. “The entire marine food web is affected, not just iconic species.” He further highlighted how modern navigation technologies could aid fishing vessels in avoiding interactions with sensitive marine wildlife such as whales and birds.
The report suggests eight measures for countries to create a responsive global network of MPAs that can adapt to climate challenges. These include developing a worldwide database for innovative ocean management strategies and ensuring that all MPAs are equipped to be resilient to climate impacts through adequate resources and staffing.
“This research aims to guide nations in the creation of climate-smart MPAs that not only protect ocean ecosystems but also support the fishing industries vital to millions worldwide,” observed Hannah. “With marine life on the move, readiness to manage these changes is imperative.”
Patrick Roehrdanz serves as a managing scientist at Conservation International, while Lee Hannah holds the position of senior scientist for climate change biology at the organization.
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www.conservation.org