ASSESSING THE BIOLOGICAL CONSEQUENCES OF CLIMATE CHANGE: IMPACTS ON ECOSYSTEMS, SPECIES DISTRIBUTION, AND GENETIC DIVERSITY

Abstract

The integration of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) with modern scientific conservation practices offers a transformative approach to biodiversity preservation, particularly in the context of ecological degradation and climate change. TEK, deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of Indigenous communities, provides valuable insights into sustainable ecosystem management across tropical and temperate biomes. This study employed a comparative methodology, analyzing biodiversity patterns, conservation outcomes, and community engagement metrics from both tropical and temperate regions. The research incorporated qualitative field observations and secondary data on species richness, soil health indices, ecological resilience, and the effectiveness of community-led conservation practices. Results indicate that TEK-informed conservation approaches significantly enhance biodiversity protection, ecosystem stability, and species adaptability across diverse ecological settings. The study found that TEK-based practices, such as agroforestry, controlled burning, and sacred groves, contribute not only to ecological balance but also foster community participation, policy inclusivity, and long-term sustainability. Metrics evaluating ecosystem services, resilience to environmental changes, and collaborative management frameworks further support the efficacy of TEK in achieving conservation goals. In conclusion, the integration of TEK into modern conservation strategies not only bridges cultural and scientific paradigms but also strengthens ecological outcomes and community ownership. This research underscores the need for inclusive, cross-cultural conservation policies that respect Indigenous knowledge systems, thereby offering a scalable and context-sensitive framework for global biodiversity preservation.