Implications of climate change on the distribution and conservation of Cabo Verde endemic trees

Climate change is one of the most significant challenges to biodiversity conservation, particularly in dry tropical islands, such as Cabo Verde archipelago where only three endemic tree taxa occur – Dracaena draco subsp. caboverdeana, Phoenix atlantica and Sideroxylon marginatum all classified threatened. The main goal this study was predict possible shifts climatically suitable habitat ranges for Verdean species under different climate scenarios. We applied distribution models (SDMs) available occurrence data, projected 2050 2080, according expected best were obtained using Random Forest algorithm; they showed that, by caboverdeana will have decreased 28% 34%, respectively; conversely, increased 59% atlantica, taxon adapted arid conditions. Additionally, Santo Antão island endangered trees are more encompassed protected areas. Overall, contributed with new integrated data support design implementation a strategic plan promote conservation ecological value vulnerable country.