A decline in rainfall caused by climate change could endanger the planet’s rainforests by reducing soil moisture that is essential to maintaining their biodiversity and resilience, according to a new study published in Nature. Read more at straitstimes.com.
PANAMA - A decline in rainfall caused by climate change could endanger the planet’s rainforests by reducing soil moisture that is essential toaccording to a new study published in the journal Nature.
The study, led by researchers from the University of Haifa in Israel and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama, compared soil humidity and precipitation data with the survival of saplings and the diversity of trees in the rainforest of central Panama. “We have identified a different way in which climate change and anthropogenic disturbances affecting water availability can affect forests,” Dr Edwin Lebrija-Trejos, an author of the study, said in a statement. “The more dry years or conditions we experience, the greater the threat of damage – not only to species diversity in rainforests, but also to the contribution these forests make to humanity.
Diversity is key to rainforest resilience, allowing one species to step in for another to perform the photosynthesis necessary to produce oxygen, the researchers said.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Judi Dench can no longer read scripts due to deteriorating eyesightLONDON – Actress Judi Dench (right, in a 2017 photo) has opened up about her deteriorating eyesight, saying she could no longer read scripts. The British star, 88, who revealed this on BBC chat show The Graham Norton Show last Friday, said: “It has become impossible and...
Read more »
New study uncovers genetic risks of disease among different ethnicitiesA better understanding of the genetic risk of disease can enhance the preventative care strategy under the Republic’s Healthier SG initiative. Read more at straitstimes.com.
Read more »
Famed Chinese rainmaker goes missing in latest executive disappearanceFamed Chinese rainmaker goes missing in latest executive disappearance Read more at straitstimes.com.
Read more »
Subscriber Picks: Top vacation spots | How often should you weigh yourself?Read more at straitstimes.com.
Read more »
Sun sets waterfall ablaze in Yosemite 'firefall'UNITED STATES — A spectacular 'firefall' wowed nature-watchers in California's Yosemite National Park on Wednesday (Feb 15), with the setting sun lighting up a waterfall like a ribbon of fire.
Read more »
The Big Read: Through the frontliners' eyes, what went well and what fell short in Singapore's COVID-19 fightAfter three years battling COVID-19, Singapore this week exited the acute stage of the pandemic Singapore's efforts at battling the unprecedented pandemic has won international applause Experts said one area Singapore did well in is its rapid procurement of COVID-19 vaccines
Read more »