Forest biodiversity and its role in the global carbon cycle under climate change.

Forest biodiversity and its role in the global carbon cycle under climate change

Forest biodiversity plays a critical role in regulating the global carbon cycle by influencing carbon storage and sequestration. Diverse forests with a variety of tree species and vegetation types tend to have higher biomass and productivity, enabling them to absorb more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Species diversity also enhances soil carbon storage through varied root structures and organic matter inputs, contributing to long-term carbon retention. As climate change progresses, maintaining biodiversity helps forests adapt to stressors, sustain carbon uptake, and reduce carbon emissions from disturbances like wildfires or pest outbreaks.

Protecting and restoring forest biodiversity is therefore essential for mitigating climate change and maintaining the balance of the global carbon cycle.