Introduction
As the planet warms, animals living in tropical mountains may find it increasingly difficult to shift to new areas, according to a new study. Tropical mountains are particularly at risk when the impacts of climate change combine with changes in land use and human pressures, says Chiara Dragonetti, co-author of the study published in June.
Many mountain-dwelling species are endemic to those areas and can only tolerate climatic conditions within narrow limits, as researchers have previously found. Higher altitudes may be the right temperature but the wrong habitat, and species already living at high altitudes can only shift so high. Eventually, animals can run out of safe space on a mountain in a pattern scientists have dubbed an “escalator to extinction”.
Methods and Results
Dragonetti wanted to understand how mountain wildlife will fare in a warming world, while also considering land-use changes and the species’ dispersal abilities. She and her colleagues analyzed existing global datasets of distribution for 395 different mountain-dwelling species, including 361 birds and 34 mammals, breaking them down by animals that can easily disperse, such as birds, and those that can’t easily relocate, such as sloths.
They then used computer models to project where these species could occur in 2050, under future high and low greenhouse gas emissions scenarios. The study found that under a high emissions scenario, wildlife would lose 16% more range (or places they can live) compared to a low emissions scenario.
Consequences and Implications
These results have significant implications for the conservation of biodiversity in tropical mountains. Habitat loss and fragmentation can lead to a reduction in species diversity and increase the risk of extinction. Additionally, climate change can alter species distribution, leading to conflicts between humans and animals.
Therefore, it is essential that measures are taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change on tropical mountains. This can include protecting and restoring habitats, creating ecological corridors, and implementing sustainable conservation practices.
Conclusion
Dragonetti and her colleagues’ study highlights the importance of considering climate change and land-use changes when planning biodiversity conservation in tropical mountains. It is crucial that measures are taken to protect these fragile ecosystems and ensure the survival of the species that inhabit them.
Source / Reference: Mongabay