Altered Precipitation Patterns Research Articles

Fish mortality in the Amazonian drought of 2023: the role of experimental biology in our response to climate change.

Higher temperatures exacerbate drought conditions by increasing evaporation rates, reducing soil moisture and altering precipitation patterns. As global temperatures rise as a result of climate change, these effects intensify, leading to more frequent and severe droughts. This link between higher temperatures and drought is particularly evident in sensitive ecosystems like the Amazon rainforest, where reduced rainfall and higher evaporation rates result in significantly lower water levels, threatening biodiversity and human livelihoods. As an example, the serious drought experienced in the Amazon basin in 2023 resulted in a significant decline in fish populations. Elevated water temperatures, reaching up to 38°C, led to mass mortality events, because these temperatures surpass the thermal tolerance of many Amazonian fish species. We know this because our group has collected data on critical thermal maxima (CTmax) for various fish species over multiple years. Additionally, warmer waters can cause hypoxia, further exacerbating fish mortality. Thus, even Amazon fish species, which have relatively high thermal tolerance, are being impacted by climate change. The Amazon drought experienced in 2023 underscores the urgent need for climate action to mitigate the devastating effects on Amazonian biodiversity. The fact that we have been able to link fish mortality events to data on the thermal tolerance of fishes emphasizes the important role of experimental biology in elucidating the mechanisms behind these events, a link that we aim to highlight in this Perspective.

Grasslands support more diverse and resilient earthworm communities to climate change than croplands in Central Europe

Diversity and community composition of earthworms, key drivers of ecosystem functions, are increasingly threatened by global change, including climate and land-use change. However, empirical evidence for interactions of these concurrent drivers in affecting earthworm communities is scarce. Here, we investigated the effects of an experimentally imposed climate change scenario, including warming and altered precipitation patterns, and land use with two croplands (both conventional farming and organic farming characterize a three-year crop rotation) and two grasslands (intensively-used meadow and extensively-used meadow) on earthworm communities across different seasons and years in a field experiment. Compared with grasslands, earthworms in croplands have lower species richness (-26 %), abundance (-80 %), and biomass (-73 %), particularly the abundance of juveniles (-83 %) and Aporrectodea rosea (-76 %) as well as the biomass of juveniles (-84 %), A. rosea (-72 %), Octolasion cyaneum (-47 %), and Lumbricus terrestris (-83 %). Due to extreme droughts in Central Europe from 2018 to 2020, earthworm abundance and biomass were low across land-use types, but in grassland they increased (abundance: +80 %; biomass: +85 %) in 2021 presumably due to increased moisture conditions. Main effects of experimental climate change and intensified management practices as well as interaction of experimental climate change and land use on abundance and biomass of earthworms were non-significant. Notably, experimental climate change and land use interactively altered earthworm community composition, with the most pronounced difference between ambient and future climate in croplands than in grasslands. This indicates that earthworm community composition more sensitively reflects changes in environmental conditions than earthworm abundance and biomass, but the latter two negatively responded to prolonged drought conditions. Our results indicate that grasslands have a higher resilience of earthworm populations to buffer adverse environmental conditions than croplands. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the response of earthworms to inter-annual climatic variability and experimental climate change under different land-use types.

The use of biostimulants as a key to sustainable hydroponic lettuce farming under saline water stress

BackroundThe utilization of high-quality water in agriculture is increasingly constrained by climate change, affecting availability, quality, and distribution due to altered precipitation patterns, increased evaporation, extreme weather events, and rising salinity levels. Salinity significantly challenges salt-sensitive vegetables like lettuce, particularly in a greenhouse. Hydroponics water quality ensures nutrient solution stability, enhances nutrient uptake, prevents contamination, regulates pH and electrical conductivity, and maintains system components. This study aimed to mitigate salt-induced damage in lettuce grown via the floating culture method under 50 mM NaCl salinity by applying biostimulants.ResultsWe examined lettuce’s physiological, biochemical, and agronomical responses to salt stress after applying biostimulants such as amino acids, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), fulvic acid, and chitosan. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse with a randomized complete block design, and each treatment was replicated four times. Biostimulant applications alleviated salt’s detrimental effects on plant weight, height, leaf number, and leaf area. Yield increases under 50 mM NaCl were 75%, 51%, 31%, 34%, and 33% using vermicompost, PGPR, fulvic acid, amino acid, and chitosan, respectively. Biostimulants improved stomatal conductance (58–189%), chlorophyll content (4–10%), nutrient uptake (15–109%), and water status (9–107%). They also reduced MDA content by 26–42%. PGPR (1.0 ml L‒1), vermicompost (2 ml L‒1), and fulvic acid (40 mg L‒1) were particularly effective, enhancing growth, yield, phenol, and mineral content while reducing nitrate levels under saline conditions.ConclusionsBiostimulants activated antioxidative defense systems, offering a sustainable, cost-effective solution for mitigating salt stress in hydroponic lettuce cultivation.

Environmental Issues and Sustainable Development: The Global and Indian Perspective

The paper aims to discuss about the historic trend of global warming and greenhouse gas emission since the late 18th century due to widespread use of fossil fuels and industrial processes. This paper provides an overview of rise of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), nitrogen trifluoride (NF3), and other gases and their contribution in warming the global temperature in the prior and later period of industrial revolution. Highlighting the relationship between greenhouse gas emission and human activities that has resulted in significant challenges to the global ecosystems that includes severe and frequent heatwaves, altered precipitation patterns, melting of glaciers, rising of sea level, along with the backward economies facing disproportionate risks and challenges in water resources, food scarcity due to draughts and high temperature as well as health issues due to low productivity and slow development. Hence, considering the problems faced by the societies worldwide, it is essential to have cooperative strategies with local, national and international agencies to implement effective mitigation measures and adaptation schemes so that the societies could foster resilience, mitigate risks and work towards a sustainable future.

Climate Change Impacts on and Response Strategies for Kiwifruit Production: A Comprehensive Review.

Climate change, a pressing global concern, poses significant challenges to agricultural systems worldwide. Among the myriad impacts of climate change, the cultivation of kiwifruit trees (Actinidia spp.) faces multifaceted challenges. In this review, we delve into the intricate effects of climate change on kiwifruit production, which span phenological shifts, distributional changes, physiological responses, and ecological interactions. Understanding these complexities is crucial for devising effective adaptation and mitigation strategies to safeguard kiwifruit production amidst climate variability. This review scrutinizes the influence of rising global temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and a heightened frequency of extreme weather events on the regions where kiwifruits are cultivated. Additionally, it delves into the ramifications of changing climatic conditions on kiwifruit tree physiology, phenology, and susceptibility to pests and diseases. The economic and social repercussions of climate change on kiwifruit production, including yield losses, livelihood impacts, and market dynamics, are thoroughly examined. In response to these challenges, this review proposes tailored adaptation and mitigation strategies for kiwifruit cultivation. This includes breeding climate-resilient kiwifruit cultivars of the Actinidia species that could withstand drought and high temperatures. Additional measures would involve implementing sustainable farming practices like irrigation, mulching, rain shelters, and shade management, as well as conserving soil and water resources. Through an examination of the literature, this review showcases the existing innovative approaches for climate change adaptation in kiwifruit farming. It concludes with recommendations for future research directions aimed at promoting the sustainability and resilience of fruit production, particularly in the context of kiwifruit cultivation, amid a changing climate.

Climate Change and Soil Fertility: A Review of Strategies for a Sustainable Food Security in India

The long-term food security of humanity on Earth will be significantly influenced by the effects of climate change soils and then the agricultural production. In addition to being vulnerable to climate change, agriculture also contributes significantly to it. The article explores how soil fertility processes and qualities are impacted by climate change on a worldwide scale and adaptation and mitigation options for a sustainable food security. Due to the intricate relationship between soils and the climate system through nutrient and hydrologic cycles, it is anticipated that changes in the global climate may have an effect on soil fertility through changes in the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the soil as a result of rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, increased atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases, and other factors.

Climate Change Impact on Three Important Species of Wild Fruit Forest Ecosystems: Assessing Habitat Loss and Climatic Niche Shift

As global biodiversity hotspots, wild fruit forests play key ecological functions, providing essential ecosystem services such as carbon storage, soil retention, and water conservation, and support food chains and biodiversity conservation through key species. Climate change, with rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns, threatens wild fruit forests by reducing the habitats and numbers of key species, potentially turning these ecosystems from carbon sinks to sources and diminishing overall biodiversity and ecosystem services. However, research on how these changes affect important species’ habitats and carbon dynamics remains insufficient. To address this, we analysed habitat suitability for three important species (Prunus armeniaca L., Malus sieversii, and Prunus ledebouriana (Schltdl.) Y.Y.Yao with the aim of informing conservation strategies. We used biomod2 to integrate environmental and species data using six methods, encompassing 12 models. We predicted overlapping geographical distributions of three species, analysing their ecological niches and environmental interactions using global datasets to understand their adaptations. This analysis revealed ecological niche shifts and reductions in resource utilisation in both current and future scenarios. Their distribution centres will move poleward under the influence of bioclimatic factors and human activities. In conclusion, protecting P. armeniaca, M. sieversii, and P. ledebouriana is essential for the conservation and overall health of wild fruit forest ecosystems. This study provides new insights into climate change, habitat loss, informing conservation and resilience strategies.

Spatio-temporal analysis land use land cover changes in South Kashmir region of North-western Himalayas using Landsat data

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the spatial patterns and temporal dynamics of land use and land cover changes in South Kashmir from 2000 to 2022 leveraging remote sensing technologies revealing significant transformations in various land cover classes. The study used maximum likelihood classification, a supervised classification method, to analyze Landsat satellite imagery and identify ten major land use categories. The findings demonstrate notable increases in, barren land by 18.78 km2 (0.35%), built-up areas by 72.28 km2 (1.33%), forests by 274.76 km2 (5.05%), grasslands by 68.06 km2 (1.25%), scrubland by 307.82 km2 (5.66%). horticulture experienced a significant rise of 419.17 km2 (7.70%), Conversely, several land use classes reported decline, agriculture by 757.21 km2 (13.91%), exposed rockmass by 258.58 km2 (4.75%), glaciers and snow by 136.83 km2 (2.51%), and water bodies contracted by 8.23 km2 (0.15%). The primary drivers of land use change in the region are identified as climate change, population growth, and economic factors. Climate change has altered precipitation patterns affecting agricultural productivity and leading to the retreat of glaciers. Population growth and economic reasons, including the rise of horticulture and changes in land use policies, have also played a significant role in shaping the landscape dynamics of South Kashmir. These changes underscore the dynamic nature of land use in South Kashmir, with significant implications for regional planning and environmental management. The study underscores the cost-effectiveness and efficacy of geospatial technologies in conducting spatiotemporal analyses and formulating evidence-based policies for the sustainable management of natural resources.

Future climate services for resilient cities: The CoKLIMAx lighthouse project

Future climate services for resilient cities: The CoKLIMAx lighthouse project Climate Service Center Germany (GERICS) is exploring future climate services for resilient cities by focusing on the CoKLIMAx lighthouse project. Climate change presents significant challenges to cities, impacting public health, infrastructure, and essential services through rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and altered precipitation patterns. To address these challenges, cities must prioritise climate adaptation strategies such as resilient infrastructure, green urban planning, and community engagement.

Facing climate change: plant stress mitigation strategies in agriculture.

Climate change poses significant challenges to global agriculture, with rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events threatening crop yields. These changes exceed the adaptability thresholds of many crops, decreasing their yield and threatening food security. At plant physiological levels, climate change-induced stressors disrupt photosynthesis, growth, and reproductive processes, contributing to a reduced productivity. Furthermore, the negative impacts of climate change on agriculture are exacerbated by anthropogenic factors, with agriculture itself contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. To mitigate these challenges, various approaches have been explored. This work reviews the most important physical, chemical, and biological strategies most commonly used in a broad range of agricultural crops. Among physical strategies, increasing water use efficiency without yield reduction through different irrigation strategies, and the use of foliar treatments with reflective properties to mitigate the negative effects of different stresses have been proven to be effective. Concerning chemical approaches, the exogenous treatment of plants with chemicals induces existing molecular and physiological plant defense mechanisms, enhancing abiotic stress tolerance. Regarding biological treatments, plant inoculation with mycorrhiza and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can improve enzymatic antioxidant capacity and mineral solubilization, favoring root and plant growth and enhance plant performance under stressful conditions. While these strategies provide valuable short- to medium-term solutions, there is a pressing need for new biotechnological approaches aimed at developing genotypes resistant to stressful conditions. Collaborative efforts among researchers, policymakers, and agricultural stakeholders are essential to ensure global food security in the face of ongoing climate challenges.

Climate-resilient water resource management for Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh

The Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh face severe water resource challenges, exacerbated by the impacts of climate change. With a rapidly growing population, the demand for water in these camps has surged, leading to over-extraction of groundwater and deteriorating water quality. Seasonal variations, including monsoons and dry spells, further strain the limited water resources, creating periods of acute scarcity and contamination risks. Climate change intensifies these issues by altering precipitation patterns and increasing the frequency of extreme weather events, jeopardizing the sustainability of current water supply systems. This paper explores sustainable water resource planning strategies tailored to the unique context of the Rohingya camps, emphasizing climate resilience and community-based approaches. By integrating innovative technologies and policy interventions, the study aims to propose solutions that ensure long-term water security for the refugee population. Sustainable water resource planning is crucial for addressing the compounded challenges of water scarcity and quality in Rohingya refugee camps, particularly under the escalating pressures of climate change. As climate change alters precipitation patterns and increases the frequency of extreme weather events, the vulnerability of water systems in these densely populated settlements intensifies. Effective planning must integrate climate resilience, ensuring reliable access to safe water despite environmental uncertainties. This involves adopting adaptive management strategies, leveraging innovative technologies, and fostering community participation to enhance system robustness and flexibility. Sustainable planning not only addresses immediate water needs but also builds long-term resilience, reducing dependency on overstressed groundwater resources and mitigating the impacts of climate-induced disruptions. This paper underscores the importance of holistic and forward-thinking approaches in securing water resources for the Rohingya population in the face of a changing climate. The study identifies critical gaps in current water resource management practices within Rohingya refugee camps and emphasizes the necessity for sustainable planning amidst climate change impacts. Key findings reveal that over-reliance on groundwater, coupled with inadequate infrastructure and seasonal variability, significantly undermines water security. The research recommends the implementation of integrated water resource management (IWRM) strategies, incorporating both traditional and innovative solutions such as rainwater harvesting, solar-powered water purification, and community-led water conservation practices. Enhancing policy frameworks to support sustainable water management and fostering collaborations among stakeholders are also crucial. Furthermore, climate resilience measures, including infrastructure fortification against extreme weather events, are imperative for long-term sustainability. These recommendations aim to establish a resilient water supply system that can adapt to future climate conditions while ensuring equitable access to safe water for the Rohingya population.

Responses of plant water uptake sources to altered precipitation patterns in a tropical secondary forest

Gaining insights into the impacts of altered precipitation patterns on tree species' water uptake sources and water usage strategies is crucial for water resource management, but a comprehensive understanding is lacking. We explored water uptake patterns and water-related traits of four dominant tree species (Evergreen: Carallia brachiate, Symplocos poilanei, Schefflera heptaphylla; Deciduous: Tetradium glabrifolium) in two altered seasonal precipitation patterns (deferred wet season [DW] and wetter wet season [WW]) and a control (CK) in a secondary tropical forest. Using stable isotopes (δ2H and δ18O) and MixSIAR models, we determined water uptake sources of the target species from a 60 cm soil profile and groundwater. Our results showed that the DW treatment increased (2.3% to 11.5%) groundwater utilization by trees in June and November compared to the CK, and promoted greater water uptake by trees from 0 to 40 cm soil layer in March. However, the WW treatment had a mild impact on water utilization in plants, leading to a reduction in water uptake by 1% - 3.8% from the 0–40 cm soil layer for the four tree species in September. The four studied tree species primarily rely on soil water, with the deciduous T. glabrifolium exhibited more flexible water uptake strategies compared to the other three evergreen species. For plant traits, S. heptaphylla exhibited larger stomatal size under DW treatment, paralleling the elongated stomatal in C. brachiate under the DW treatment. Conversely, S. poilanei and T. glabrifolium exhibit greater flexibility in balancing midday water potential. Under altered precipitation patterns, these plants adopt different morphological and/or physiological strategies, along with shift their water uptake sources to adapt to fluctuating water conditions. Overall, this study improves our understanding of plant water use in secondary tropical forests and emphasizes the importance of considering species-specific responses in forest management under potential precipitation pattern changes.

Predicting the Impacts of Land Use/Cover and Climate Changes on Water and Sediment Flows in the Megech Watershed, Upper Blue Nile Basin

This study assessed the impacts of the land use/cover (LULC) and climate changes on the runoff and sediment flows in the Megech watershed. The Geospatial Water Erosion Prediction Project (GeoWEPP) was used to assess LULC and climate changes’ impact on runoff, soil loss, and sediment yield. The QGIS 2.16.3 plugin module for land use change evaluation (MOLUSCE) tool with the cellular automata artificial neural network (CA-ANN) was used for LULC prediction based on historical data and exploratory maps. Two commonly used representative concentration pathways (RCPs)—4.5 and 8.5—were used for climate projection in the 2030s, 2050s, and 2070s. The LULC prediction analysis showed an expansion of cropland and settlement areas, with the reduction in the forest and rangelands. The climate projections indicated an increase in maximum temperatures and altered precipitation patterns, particularly with increased wet months and reduced dry periods. The average annual soil loss and sediment yield rates were estimated to increase under both the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 climate scenarios, with a more noticeable increase under RCP8.5. By integrating DEM, soil, land use, and climate data, we evaluated runoff, soil loss, and sediment yield changes on only land use/cover, only climate, and the combined impacts in the watershed. The results revealed that, under all combined scenarios, the sediment yield in the Megech Reservoir was projected to substantially increase by 23.28–41.01%, showing a potential loss of reservoir capacity. This study recommends strong climate adaptation and mitigation measures to alleviate the impact on land and water resources. It is possible to lessen the combined impacts of climate and LULC change through implementing best-management practices and adaptation strategies for the identified scenarios.

Effects of climate change on plant-pollinator interactions and its multitrophic consequences

AbstractThere is wide consensus that climate change will seriously impact flowering plants and their pollinators. Shifts in flowering phenology and insect emergence as well as changes in the functional traits involved can cause alterations in plant-pollinator interactions, pollination success and plant reproductive output. Effects of rising temperatures, advanced snowmelt and altered precipitation patterns are expected to be particularly severe in alpine habitats due to the constrained season and upper range margins. Yet, our understanding of the magnitude and consequences of such changes in life history events and functional diversity in high elevation environments is incomplete.This special issue collects novel insights into the effects of climate change on plant-pollinator interactions in individual plant species and on network structure of entire plant and pollinator communities in alpine ecosystems. Using simulated changes of earlier snowmelt, natural gradients of variation in temperature, precipitation and snowmelt, or a long-term monitoring approach, these studies illustrate how plant species, plant communities, and pollinators respond to variation in environmental conditions associated with scenarios of ongoing climate change.The collection of papers presented here clearly demonstrates how spatial or temporal variation in the environmental climatic context affects flower abundances and plant community composition, and the consequences of these changes for pollinator visitation, pollination network structure, pollen transfer dynamics, or seed production. As changes in the availability of flowers, fruits, and seeds are likely to impact on other trophic levels, the time is ripe and pressing for a holistic multitrophic view of the effects of climate change on biotic interactions in alpine ecological communities.

ABA-receptor agonist iSB09 decreases soil water consumption and increases tomato CO2 assimilation and water use efficiency under drought stress

Climate change can alter precipitation patterns, disrupting the natural water cycle and generating drought periods that negatively impact crop yield or plant survival. Novel biotechnological approaches are being developed to face water deficits. Specifically, molecular knowledge of the plant hormone abscisic acid (ABA) can be harnessed to develop genetic and chemical approaches to cope with abiotic stress. ABA receptor agonists are promising molecules that activate ABA signaling on demand and show long-lasting effects, in contrast to the exogenous application of ABA, which has a short half-life. In this work, we studied the effect of the iSB09 agonist on tomato plants grown under drought stress or well-watered conditions. iSB09 treatment induced stomatal closure in tomato through activation of PYL1-like and PYL4-like ABA receptors. Additionally, RNA-seq analyses reveal coordinated upregulation by ABA or iSB09 of the genes encoding enzymes involved in the synthesis of the osmoprotective galactinol and raffinose family of oligosaccharides. Foliar spraying of iSB09 under drought conditions anticipated the regulation of transpiration, promoted drought avoidance and increased water use efficiency in tomato plants. Physiological analysis of agonist-treated plants reveals increased CO2 assimilation and effective quantum yield of the photosystem II under drought conditions in iSB09-treated plants compared to mock-treated. Faster regulation of transpiration at the start of the drought period was achieved by iSB09 treatment, and, as a result, water consumption was reduced compared to mock-treated plants. Overall, the agonist treatment mounts the genome-wide transcriptional response to stress and increases water use efficiency under drought conditions and plant protection.

Enhancing Crop Resilience to Climate Change through Biochar: A Review

Crop resilience is crucial in the face of climate change, as agricultural regions face unprecedented challenges such as rising global temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and increased extreme weather events. These changes impact food security, crop yields, and the livelihoods of millions of farmers worldwide. Crops face threats from heat stress, changing pest and disease dynamics, water scarcity, and unpredictable growing seasons. Crop resilience involves a complex interplay of genetics, environmental factors, and agricultural practices. Researchers and agricultural scientists are exploring innovative approaches like selective breeding, genetic modification, and precision agriculture to enhance crop resilience. Integrating traditional knowledge and indigenous farming practices into modern agricultural strategies is essential for securing food production, ensuring the sustainability of agricultural systems, conserving biodiversity, and supporting community resilience in an uncertain climate future. Crop resilience is central to ensuring global food security, supporting rural livelihoods, preserving ecosystems, and advancing sustainable agriculture in the face of climate change challenges. Biochar, a climate-resilient agricultural amendment, is gaining attention for its role in enhancing agricultural sustainability and mitigating climate change. Its porous structure and high carbon content sequester carbon dioxide, improve soil health, and reduce nutrient leaching. Biochar's porous nature fosters a rich microbial community, aids in nutrient cycling, and aids in rehabilitating degraded soils. It also reduces synthetic fertilizer requirements and environmental pollution. Climate change significantly impacts crop agriculture, disrupting traditional growth patterns and threatening global food security. High temperatures cause heat stress, while droughts and floods cause soil desiccation, impairing crop yields. Increased plant diseases and pests spread, while higher CO2 levels stimulate photosynthesis but reduce essential nutrients. Rising temperatures disrupt vegetative and reproductive growth phases, pollination, and seed formation, compromising crop quality and market value. Biochar is a porous material formed through pyrolysis, a process where organic biomass is decomposed under limited oxygen conditions. It is primarily carbon-rich but contains hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and minerals. As a soil amendment, biochar is a stable carbon sink with a high carbon content of 70-90%. Its porous structure allows it to efficiently adsorb and retain water, nutrients, and organic compounds. Its large surface area facilitates interactions with soil microbes and nutrient ions, and its high CEC helps in nutrient retention and soil fertility.

Effects of Climate Change on the Traditional Nomadic Lifestyle in Mongolia

This paper examines the effects of climate change on the traditional nomadic lifestyle in Mongolia, focusing on the environmental shifts, changes in herding practices, economic consequences, social and cultural impacts, and the adaptation and coping strategies employed by herders. Key climate changes such as rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns have led to significant environmental challenges, including desertification and water scarcity, which directly affect grassland ecosystems. These changes have disrupted seasonal migration patterns and grazing practices, impacting livestock health and productivity. The economic stability of herders is threatened by reduced income and increased costs, prompting diversification of economic activities. Social and cultural structures are also shifting, with traditional knowledge being both preserved and transformed to meet new challenges. The integration of traditional practices with modern technologies and innovations is crucial for building climate resilience. Policy and support mechanisms, including disaster preparedness, sustainable land management, financial support, education, and international collaboration, are essential to support the resilience and sustainability of Mongolia’s nomadic herding communities.

Climate Change and Global Agriculture: Addressing Challenges and Adaptation Strategies

Climate change poses significant challenges to global agriculture, affecting crop production, food security, and the livelihoods of millions worldwide. This paper reviews the current understanding of the impact of climate change on agriculture and explores adaptation strategies to mitigate its adverse effects. Climate change-induced phenomena such as rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, increased frequency of extreme weather events, and shifts in pest and disease dynamics threaten crop yields and agricultural productivity. To address these challenges, various adaptation measures are being implemented, including the development and adoption of climate-resilient crop varieties, improved water management techniques, agroforestry practices, and enhanced early warning systems. Furthermore, policy interventions and international collaborations are crucial for building resilience and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the face of climate change. This review highlights the urgent need for concerted efforts at local, national, and global levels to safeguard agricultural systems and ensure food security in a changing climate.

Which contributes more in predictor of desert shrubs traits: Intra-annual or inter-annual precipitation change?

Considering the implications of future climatic shifts, mid-latitude desert ecosystems will experience pronounced changes in precipitation dynamics, as evidenced by the elevated inter-annual variability and escalated annual incidence of extreme rainfall events. Despite considerable research on vegetation response to intricate precipitation patterns at the community level, the physiological adaptations of individual plants within these assemblages are not well defined. This investigation employed simulations of diverse precipitation scenarios, utilising varying precipitation amounts (to simulate inter-annual variability) and intervals (to simulate intra-annual variability). A field-manipulated experiment was conducted to assess the responses of the leaf and stem hydraulic functional traits of Artemisia ordosica under different precipitation regimes. The results demonstrated that 1) the magnitude of inter-annual precipitation, rather than the intra-annual redistribution of precipitation, dominated the variability in the functional traits of A. ordosica, with diminished inter-annual precipitation inducing an array of functional trait alterations (e.g., specific leaf area, stomatal conductance, water use efficiency, and conduit diameter) to enhance water-use safety. Reallocating precipitation to low-frequency but high-intensity events during years with less inter-annual precipitation was more advantageous for the survival of A. ordosica. 2) A reduction in annual precipitation fostered a correlation between stem and leaf functional traits in A. ordosica (e.g., hydraulic conductance with photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, conduit diameter with transpiration rate, and water use efficiency), suggesting that under decreased precipitation, A. ordosica strengthens the coupling between hydraulics and photosynthesis to prevent hydraulic failure, demonstrating a safer survival strategy. Overall, the impact of global changes in precipitation patterns on the individual survival of A. ordosica primarily depended on the variation in inter-annual precipitation rather than the within-year redistribution. This study enhanced our understanding of the adaptability of dominant shrub species within desert shrub communities to altered precipitation patterns under climate change.

A Review on the Relationship of Climate Variability and Extremes with Crop Production

Risks are always present in agriculture for a variety of reasons. Climate-related risks are the most significant among them since they can occur unexpectedly and cannot be avoided. The main climatic factors influencing crop productivity are rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and rising atmospheric CO2. The average global temperature is expected to rise by 2oC until 2100, which would result in significant global economic losses. The average global temperature is currently rising steadily. The concentration of CO2, which makes up a large amount of greenhouse gases, is rising alarmingly. Climate change, with rising temperatures and increased greenhouse gas emissions, impacts agriculture significantly, leading to varied crop yields and potentially catastrophic economic consequences. While some regions may experience favorable effects, overall, climate variability poses challenges such as reduced crop productivity, increased pest activity, and elevated food costs, particularly affecting underdeveloped nations. Environmental policies must be adaptable and flexible to mitigate these impacts effectively. Farmers' responses to climate change, influenced by perceptions and data accessibility, drive both mitigation and adaptation efforts. Sustainable agriculture, conservation practices, and technological innovations play key roles in mitigating climate change impacts and enhancing resilience in farming communities, though success depends on multiple factors including local perceptions, technical feasibility, and economic viability. This paper reviews the causes of climate change, the climate variables affecting crop production and the mitigation and adaptation strategies against climate change.