Deforestation Shifts Tree Species in Brazilian Forests

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Human Activities Shift Tree Species in Brazilian #Forests | Research by Lancaster University reveals that human-induced deforestation and degradation in Brazilian forests are causing a shift towards fast-growing, small-seeded tree species. These changes threaten biodiversity and reduce carbon storage capacity. Supporting indigenous-led conservation efforts is crucial to protect these ecosystems. #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife

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Lancaster University. (2024, December 10). Human disruption is driving ‘winner’ and ‘loser’ tree species shifts across Brazilian forests. ScienceDaily. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/12/241210115438.htm

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Recent research out of Lancaster University reveals that human activities, including deforestation and forest degradation, are altering the composition of tree species in Brazilian forests. The study, published in Nature Ecology and Evolution, indicates a dominance of fast-growing, small-seeded tree species in areas with significant human disturbance.

These “winning” species, characterised by rapid growth and shorter lifespans, are replacing slow-growing, large-seeded trees with denser wood. This shift has serious implications for ecosystem services, notably reducing the forests’ ability to absorb and store carbon. Additionally, wildlife species that rely on large seeds for food and dispersal are adversely affected.

The international research team analyzed data from over 1,200 tropical tree species across more than 270 forest plots in the Brazilian Amazon and Atlantic forests. They identified that landscapes with high forest cover are dominated by dense-wooded, large-seeded trees, primarily dispersed by medium to large-bodied animals. In contrast, heavily deforested areas are increasingly populated by opportunistic species with softer wood and smaller seeds, dispersed by small, mobile birds and bats adapted to disturbed environments.

Lead author Bruno X. Pinho emphasizes the need for conservation and restoration efforts to preserve these vital ecosystems. Senior Investigator Professor Jos Barlow highlights the importance of addressing not only deforestation but also forest disturbances such as selective logging and fires.

Tropical forests are crucial reservoirs of biodiversity and play a significant role in mitigating climate change by absorbing greenhouse gases. The ongoing shifts in tree species composition due to human disruption underscore the urgent need for indigenous-led conservation initiatives to protect and restore these ecosystems.

For more detailed information, read more.

Lancaster University. (2024, December 10). Human disruption is driving ‘winner’ and ‘loser’ tree species shifts across Brazilian forests. ScienceDaily. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/12/241210115438.htm

ENDS

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