Climate change will drive mammal species loss and biotic homogenization in the Cerrado Biodiversity Hotspot

Climate change is projected to significantly reduce mammal species richness and promote biotic homogenization in the Cerrado Biodiversity Hotspot, particularly in southern Brazil. This study used ecological niche models (ENM) and future climate scenarios to analyze potential impacts on taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversities of mammals. Findings indicate that while species richness may decrease across most areas, southern regions could face biotic homogenization due to the extinction of native specialists and expansion of exotic generalists. The research provides a large-scale analysis of how anthropogenic and natural processes may reshape mammal communities in this endangered biome, offering critical insights for guiding future conservation efforts.

Hidasi-Neto, J., Joner, D. C., Resende, F., Monteiro, L. d. M., Faleiro, F. V., Loyola, R. D., & Cianciaruso, M. V. (2019). Climate change will drive mammal species loss and biotic homogenization in the Cerrado Biodiversity Hotspot. Perspectives in Ecology and Conservation, 17(2), 57–63. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pecon.2019.02.001