Effects of climate change on lycaon pictus
- Author
- Muhonde, Jillian
- Title
- Effects of climate change on lycaon pictus
- Abstract
-
Climate change models have become an important tool for understanding the impact of climate change on species distribution and guiding biodiversity conservation efforts. In this particular study, the researchers focused on assessing the effects of climate change on Lycaon pictus, an animal species found in Zimbabwe, South Africa, Namibia, Angola and Botswana. RStudio software was used to model the distribution of the species, utilizing 1418 occurrence records and 19 bioclimatic variables. The projections were made for the years 2050 and 2070 using two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) known as RCP_8.5 and RCP_2.6.
The results of the study indicated that the range of Lycaon Pictus is expected to decline in the future 2050 under RCP 2.6, with a probability of occurrence outside the current area exceeding 0.2. The ecological niche models for the species under both climate scenarios showed significant changes in its current suitability. RCP 8.5 2070 predicted extensive range expansion for the species, highlighting the substantial impact of climate change on its survival. However, unlike many other species that may face negative consequences due to climate change, the study suggests that the predicted suitability areas for Lycaon pictus can be used to assess the conservation status of the animal species at a regional scale. The researchers recommend conducting further field studies to determine the actual range size of Lycaon pictus and to validate the model projections. Ultimately, the study emphasizes the importance of considering climate change in biodiversity conservation efforts and highlights the potential for increased biodiversity resulting from the expansion of Lycaon pictus range.
- Date
- JUNE 2024
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Climate change, Lycaon pictus, Biodiversity
- Supervisor
- Prof Jimu
- Item sets
- Department of Natural Resources
