Tropical dry forests: an underestimated ecosystem

Tropical dry forests: an underestimated ecosystem

tropical dry forests, often also referred to as "dry forests", are a decisive but often overlooked ecosystem. They provide a unique and diverse collection of flora and fauna and contribute significantly to the binding of carbon. Worldwide, tropical dry forests include approximately 42% of the tropical forests. Unfortunately, these forests are often threatened by agriculture, cattle breeding and hydropower plants, and their protection and preservation are at the center of numerous efforts by nature conservation authorities and environmental organizations. This article is intended to offer a detailed insight into tropical dry forests, show their importance, discuss the challenges that they face and offer solutions to prevent their destruction.

What are tropical dry forests?

definition

Tropical dry forests are forest ecosystems that are in the tropical and subtropical areas of the world. They are characterized by a seasonally varying amount of precipitation, whereby the dry periods can last six to seven months. The annual precipitation is usually between 700 and 2000 mm. The environment created by such conditions enables the presence of a unique mix of plant and animal species.

ecological meaning

Tropical dry forests are characterized by a remarkable biodiversity, which is even comparable to that of tropical rainforests. They accommodate numerous endemic species and are also of great importance for species preservation. They also bind considerable amounts of carbon dioxide and thus contribute to reducing global warming.

threats for tropical dry forests

Delay and convert the land use

Due to their fertile floors and easy accessibility, tropical dry forests are particularly susceptible to deforestation and conversion. They are often cleared for agricultural use, which results in both the loss of habitat for the wildlife and the loss of carbon binding mechanisms.

climate change

Climate change has far -reaching effects on tropical dry forests. Higher temperatures and a changed rainfall distribution can lead to drying out the forest and negatively influence the sensitive ecosystems.

for the protection of the tropical dry forests

nature reserves

The protection of areas by their declaration as national parks or nature reserves is a proven method to reduce the design.

Sustainable agricultural procedures

Sustainable agriculture can help reduce the pressure on the forests. This includes methods of management that increase the productivity of agricultural areas without needing new areas for agriculture.

FAZIT

Tropical dry forests make a decisive contribution to maintaining global biodiversity and for carbon binding. Their protection and sustainable use represent central challenges for a promising environmental policy. Despite the extensive threats that they are exposed to, tropical dry forests are still a source of hope for conservationists who work on their successful regeneration and reforestation. They are a lively example of the fact that humanity is hardly more important than protecting and maintaining global ecosystems. It is our common responsibility to not only appreciate this underestimated ecosystem, but also to maintain and maintain. The world of tropical dry forests is a paradise of unique beauty and diversity that needs to be preserved.