Threatened tropical grasslands and savannas biome
Nature
Threatened tropical grasslands and savannas biome refers to vast ecosystems characterized by grasses, scattered trees, and seasonal rainfall, now facing severe degradation. These biomes, found in regions like Africa, South America, and Australia, are imperiled by agricultural expansion, overgrazing, invasive species, and climate change. Habitat loss and fragmentation threaten unique biodiversity, disrupt ecological processes, and reduce carbon storage. The decline of these ecosystems undermines livelihoods, endangers wildlife such as elephants and antelopes, and diminishes natural resilience to environmental changes, making their conservation a critical global challenge.
Background
The global significance of threatened tropical grasslands and savannas emerged in the late 20th century, as ecologists documented rapid habitat loss and biodiversity decline distinct from tropical forests. Early satellite imagery and field studies revealed alarming conversion rates for agriculture and grazing, prompting international concern. Subsequent research underscored these biomes’ unique ecological roles and vulnerability, leading to their recognition in major conservation frameworks and global assessments, such as the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment and IUCN Red List updates.
Incidence
Tropical grasslands and savannas, covering approximately 20% of the Earth’s land surface, are experiencing rapid degradation and loss due to agricultural expansion, overgrazing, and frequent fires. These biomes, found across Africa, South America, Asia, and Australia, are disappearing at alarming rates, with some regions losing up to 80% of their original extent. The decline threatens unique biodiversity, carbon storage, and the livelihoods of millions who depend on these ecosystems.
In 2022, Brazil’s Cerrado, the world’s most biodiverse savanna, lost over 10,000 square kilometers to soy cultivation and cattle ranching, according to satellite data from MapBiomas.
In 2022, Brazil’s Cerrado, the world’s most biodiverse savanna, lost over 10,000 square kilometers to soy cultivation and cattle ranching, according to satellite data from MapBiomas.
Claim
The destruction of tropical grasslands and savannas is an urgent crisis that demands immediate global attention. These biomes are biodiversity hotspots, vital carbon sinks, and lifelines for millions of people and wildlife. Their rapid loss to agriculture, development, and climate change is catastrophic, accelerating species extinction and destabilizing ecosystems. Ignoring this problem is reckless; protecting tropical grasslands and savannas is essential for planetary health and our own survival. We must act now.
Counter-claim
The so-called “threat” to tropical grasslands and savannas is grossly exaggerated. These biomes have always adapted to change, and their loss pales in comparison to issues like urban poverty or global health crises. Resources spent on their protection could be better used elsewhere. Nature is resilient, and focusing on these landscapes distracts from more urgent human concerns. The alarm over their decline is simply not a pressing problem in today’s world.
Broader
Narrower
Strategy
Metadata
Database
World problems
Type
(D) Detailed problems
Biological classification
N/A
Content quality
Unpresentable
Language
English
1A4N
J6834
DOCID
12068340
D7NID
161247
Editing link
Official link
Last update
Oct 4, 2020