Research indicates that a significant two-thirds of Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) in tropical forests are now facing unprecedented temperature conditions due to climate change.
KBAs are crucial locations around the world that support essential species and their habitats.
A recent study conducted by Exeter, Manchester Metropolitan, and Cambridge universities analyzed three decades of temperature data from beneath the forest canopy in KBAs across tropical regions globally.
The research revealed that 66% of tropical forest KBAs have shifted to new “temperature regimes,” meaning that more than 40% of temperature readings are now outside the previously recorded range.
The remaining 34% have not yet encountered these new temperature conditions, leading researchers to suggest that these areas might serve as critical refuges for various forms of biodiversity.
This study’s findings were released ahead of the United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16) taking place in Colombia starting October 21.
Dr. Brittany Trew from the Environment and Sustainability Institute at Exeter’s Penryn Campus in Cornwall stated, “Tropical forests are home to an incredible diversity of life, thriving in stable climate conditions.”
“Consequently, species in these regions are especially vulnerable to new temperature trends, having adapted over time to a limited range of conditions. They might be able to endure only a minor increase in temperatures beyond what they are accustomed to.”
The Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework includes a proposed target to ensure that at least 30% of the world’s land area is protected by 2030, specifically highlighting KBAs as a fundamental focus.
Dr. Alexander Lees, a biodiversity expert at Manchester Metropolitan University, commented, “The level of political and financial resources dedicated to protecting biodiversity is alarmingly insufficient.”
“Our results demonstrate that the challenging task of choosing new protected areas must take into account the ongoing impacts of climate change on these regions when setting priorities.”
It’s important to note that KBAs do not automatically receive formal protection; this is determined by the national governments in the recognized areas.
The findings of the study reveal that, of the 34% of tropical forest KBAs not currently experiencing new temperature regimes, over half lack any form of protection.
“We require ‘climate-smart’ policies to safeguard these crucial refuges,” urged Dr. Trew.
The researchers incorporated temperature readings, satellite imagery, and microclimate models to evaluate near-ground hourly temperatures in the tropical KBAs worldwide.
Notably, the proportion of KBAs undergoing new temperature conditions was exceptionally high in Africa and Latin America, at 72% and 59% respectively, whereas Asia and Oceania saw a lower shift at 49%.
A small fraction of KBAs in Latin America (2.9%)—as well as a minuscule number in Asia and Oceania (0.4%)—have adapted to nearly entirely new temperature regimes, with over 80% of temperature readings falling outside previous ranges.
In Latin America, these KBAs are primarily situated in Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, or Panama, with the tropical Andes being particularly impacted.
This research, published in the journal Conservation Letters, is titled: “Identifying climate-smart tropical Key Biodiversity Areas for protection in response to widespread temperature novelty.”
