According to a new study, a third of the world’s trees are at risk of extinction as a result of climate change and extreme weather events
According to a conservation group, there are twice as many threatened trees species than there are threatened mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles combined. According to a new analysis, about a third of the world’s tree species are endangered, with hundreds on the verge of extinction. The major study, published on Wednesday by Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI), found that 17,500 tree species – or 30% of the total – are in danger of extinction, with 440 species having fewer than 50 natural examples.
According to the research, the number of threatened tree species is more than double that of threatened mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles combined. In a statement, BGCI Secretary-General Paul Smith said, “This research is a wake-up call to everyone around the world that trees need support.” Species like magnolias and dipterocarps, which are prevalent in Southeast Asian rainforests, are among the most vulnerable trees. Oak trees, maple trees, and ebonies are also threatened, according to the research. Trees are important in fighting global warming and climate change because they serve to support the natural ecosystem. The extinction of one tree species could lead to the extinction of many more.
“Every tree species is important – to the millions of other species that rely on trees, as well as to people all across the world,” Smith noted. Thousands of tree variations are at risk of extinction in the world’s top six countries for tree species diversity, according to the report. Brazil has the highest number of endangered species, with 1,788. Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Colombia, and Venezuela are the other five countries. Crop cultivation, timber harvesting, and animal farming are the top three risks to tree species, according to the survey, while climate change and harsh weather are rising threats.
According to the paper, at least 180 tree species are directly threatened by rising oceans and harsh weather, particularly island species like magnolias in the Caribbean.