A changing climate is one of the primary threats to biodiversity, manifesting as rising temperatures, severe droughts, floods, and more frequent fires. These impacts are already visible.
Among the ecosystems most profoundly impacted by global temperature increases are tropical mountains. Their steep altitudinal ranges and climatic variability create unique microhabitats that host a remarkable diversity of life. However, as the Earth warms, these microhabitats are shifting to higher elevations or disappearing entirely. Consequently, species and populations are already adapting by altering their distributions in search of suitable environments, while others face a heightened risk of extinction.
Most conservation action plans are based on current biodiversity patterns and climates. This does not take into account the rapid changes already occurring, or that will occur in these ecosystems. Conservation action plans must instead emphasize resiliency. That is where the Research for Resiliency project comes in.
A project of the Andes Amazon Fund led by Dr. Adrian Forsyth, this initiative's research focuses on measuring and monitoring present and projected biodiversity patterns in the tropical Andes. The goal is to pinpoint potential local and regional climate refugia (areas largely buffered from the impacts of a changing climate) and establish a linked network of corridors based on climate gradients. Mapping these corridors will facilitate species survival and movement, mitigating extinction risks and preserving ecosystem integrity.
We employ a suite of conservation technologies, from DNA barcoding to passive acoustic monitoring, to track biodiversity patterns along elevation gradients. This approach aims to identify the most effective technologies and methodologies to inform conservation efforts and enhance resilience. Additionally, we implement active restoration initiatives in higher elevations to counteract threats like grassland fires and grazing, which could impede the upward migration of cloud forests.
The resilience of the Andean Amazon will depend on the identification and protection of a network of climate corridors that will sustain biodiversity and preserve ecosystem function for the generations to come.
In 2026, we plan to release a manual for conservation stakeholders, including local and Indigenous communities, park rangers, government agencies, and civil society organizations. This manual will share best practices for identifying, studying, and managing resilient protected areas, aiding conservation stakeholders in prioritizing areas for conservation investment.
Funding for this project was generously provided by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation.
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