Climate change could transform Tamil Nadu’s Western Ghats by 2050
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Climate change & international agreements· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
Anna University researchers warned that climate change could shift Tamil Nadu’s Western Ghats forest composition from evergreen/deciduous to thorn forests by 2050.
Background
The study highlights a projected decline in evergreen and deciduous forests in favor of expanding drier thorn forests. This shift threatens biodiversity, water security, and carbon storage in a critical Indian biodiversity hotspot.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceWestern Ghats: A global biodiversity hotspot running through the Western Ghats mountain range in South India.
- FactProjected timeframe for significant forest composition shift: 2050.
- EnvironmentThorn forests: Characterized by drought-resistant vegetation, expanding in arid/semi-arid conditions.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how climate-induced shifts in forest composition in biodiversity hotspots like the Western Ghats threaten regional water security and carbon sequestration goals.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Hydrological disruption: Reduced moisture retention in thorn forests affecting perennial stream flows and groundwater recharge.
- Carbon sink degradation: Loss of high-biomass evergreen species reducing the region's capacity for atmospheric carbon sequestration.
- Biodiversity homogenization: Loss of niche habitats for endemic species leading to reduced ecological resilience.
Keywords: Biodiversity Hotspot · Carbon Sequestration · Ecological Resilience · Climate Adaptation · Forest Composition
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