Biodiverse savanna deforestation alarms Brazilian scientists.

Biodiverse savanna deforestation alarms Brazilian scientists

The Brazilian savanna, also known as the Cerrado, is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world. It covers an area of over 2 million square kilometers, and is home to thousands of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. However, this unique ecosystem is under threat from deforestation, and Brazilian scientists are sounding the alarm.

According to a recent study published in the journal Nature Ecology and Evolution, the Cerrado has lost over 50% of its native vegetation since the 1950s. This is due to a combination of factors, including agriculture, mining, and urbanization. The study also found that the rate of deforestation is increasing, with over 30,000 square kilometers of the Cerrado being cleared each year.

This is a major concern for Brazilian scientists, who warn that the loss of the Cerrado could have serious consequences for the country’s biodiversity and the global climate. The Cerrado is a major carbon sink, storing large amounts of carbon in its soils and vegetation. If this carbon is released into the atmosphere through deforestation, it could contribute to global warming.

In addition, the Cerrado is home to many endangered species, including the maned wolf, the giant anteater, and the jaguar. The loss of their habitat could push these species closer to extinction.

To address this issue, Brazilian scientists are calling for stronger conservation measures to protect the Cerrado. They are also urging the government to promote sustainable agriculture and mining practices, and to invest in reforestation efforts.

The Cerrado is a unique and valuable ecosystem, and its loss would be a tragedy for Brazil and the world. It is up to all of us to take action to protect this vital ecosystem and the species that call it home.