Vulnerability of the Pteridoflora Towards Climate Change in the West Albertine Rift: Case of the Mountain’s Stages of the Kahuzi-Biega National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Climate change and anthropogenic activities significantly alter the floristic composition of Lycophytes and Ferns (Pteridoflora) in the mountainous regions of Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP), Democratic Republic of the Congo, threatening biodiversity. A decade-long study comparing undisturbed and disturbed habitats across 1250–3300 m altitude revealed that Pteridophytes exhibit high diversity and stability in stable environments but face fragility due to habitat loss and vegetation structure changes. The mountainous KBNP may serve as a climatic refuge for these species, given their adaptability and ecological significance. However, natural hazards and human impacts pose ongoing vulnerabilities, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to mitigate climate-induced biodiversity threats.

Mokoso, J. D. D. M., Marie, F. C., Habimana, H. N., Sefu, J. A., Zabo, I. A., Botelanyele, F. K., Sefu, J. A., & Roger, K. L. (2024). Vulnerability of the Pteridoflora Towards Climate Change in the West Albertine Rift: Case of the Mountain’s Stages of the Kahuzi-Biega National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. African Journal of Climate Change and Resource Sustainability, 3(1), 116–149. https://doi.org/10.37284/ajccrs.3.1.1916