Impact of Climate Change on the Distribution of <i>Cinnamomum malabatrum</i> (Laurales—Lauraceae), a Culturally and Ecologically Important Species of Malabar, Western Ghats, India

The impact of climate change on the distribution of <i>Cinnamomum malabatrum</i> (Laurales—Lauraceae), a culturally and ecologically important species in the Malabar region of Western Ghats, India, was studied using a MaxEnt machine learning algorithm. The findings are rooted in extensiv...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Mukesh Lal Das, Sarat Chandran, Sreenath Subrahmanyam
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-07-01
Series:Diversity
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/1424-2818/17/7/476
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Summary:The impact of climate change on the distribution of <i>Cinnamomum malabatrum</i> (Laurales—Lauraceae), a culturally and ecologically important species in the Malabar region of Western Ghats, India, was studied using a MaxEnt machine learning algorithm. The findings are rooted in extensive field data and advanced modeling techniques. The predicted range shifts and contraction of suitable habitats for the species indicate significant challenges ahead, especially in the Malabar midlands and coastal plains—areas of high endemicity. The proposed conservation strategies provide a comprehensive framework that encompasses the protection of sacred groves, sustainable land-use policies, afforestation, and community conservation strategies within protected areas. This study serves as a clarion call for concerted action and collaboration among researchers, policymakers, local communities, and conservation practitioners to preserve the delicate balance of the ecosystem in the face of environmental change.
ISSN:1424-2818