Study Resolves Debate on Biodiversity Loss in Fragmented Forests

New research shows that fragmented landscapes reduce biodiversity and carbon storage, emphasizing the need for large-scale forest restoration.

A University of Michigan-led study finds fragmented forests host significantly fewer species compared to continuous landscapes, with biodiversity losses of up to 13.6% locally and 12.1% across landscapes.
The research analyzed 4,006 species across 37 global sites, concluding that fragmentation negatively impacts biodiversity across all scales and taxonomic groups.
While fragmented areas may increase species turnover (beta diversity), this does not offset the overall biodiversity loss in these landscapes.
Fragmentation also compromises ecosystems' ability to store carbon, further emphasizing its environmental consequences.
The study advocates for shifting conservation efforts toward forest restoration and reforestation, moving beyond debates over preserving fragmented versus continuous habitats.