International Journal of Molecular Evolution and Biodiversity 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 71-79 http://ecoevopublisher.com/index.php/ijmeb 74 3 Consequences for Biodiversity 3.1 Overview of species endangered by sugarcane expansion Sugarcane expansion, particularly in biodiversity-rich areas like the Brazilian Cerrado and Atlantic Forest, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa, has led to significant biodiversity loss. This agriculture practice often replaces complex forest ecosystems, which are rich in species, with monocultures that offer very limited habitat variety. The alteration of natural landscapes to sugarcane fields not only reduces habitat areas but also affects the ecological balance, pushing many species towards endangerment. For instance, studies have shown significant reductions in soil macrofauna such as ants, earthworms, and beetles due to the conversion from native vegetation or pastures to sugarcane fields. These species are crucial for soil health, influencing everything from nutrient cycling to soil structure and fertility. In Brazil, changes from pasture to sugarcane have resulted in a 90% reduction in soil macrofauna abundance and a 40% loss in biodiversity. The diversity of above-ground fauna, including mammals and birds, also diminishes as these species lose their natural habitats and food sources (Franco et al., 2016). 3.2 Specific examples of flora and fauna impacted Flora: In regions like Ethiopia, where sugarcane is cultivated extensively, native woody vegetation has suffered greatly. A study comparing the remnant patches of woodlands to those converted to sugarcane fields found a dramatic reduction in native tree species diversity, with a higher proportion of non-native species in sugarcane zones. The loss of native flora fundamentally alters the ecological fabric of the area, reducing habitat quality for endemic and native species (Degefa and Saito, 2017). Fauna: The impact on fauna is similarly severe. In Brazil, sugarcane expansion has been linked to declines in populations of large mammals, including the jaguar and the giant anteater, as well as numerous bird species. The displacement caused by sugarcane cultivation disrupts migration patterns, breeding habits, and food availability, leading to reduced population viability (Verdade et al., 2012). 3.3 Long-term effects on genetic diversity in the region The long-term effects of sugarcane expansion on genetic diversity are profound and worrying. Genetic diversity within both plant and animal populations is crucial for resilience to disease and environmental changes. However, the simplification of ecosystems and the reduction of species caused by sugarcane cultivation can lead to a significant decrease in genetic diversity. This, in turn, decreases overall ecosystem resilience, making it harder for the system to recover from environmental stresses. In areas of sugarcane expansion, the genetic diversity of the soil biota has also been impacted. The soil communities, which are vital for the health of any terrestrial ecosystem, become less diverse and abundant, which impacts plant health and productivity. This reduction in genetic diversity can alter the nutrient cycling processes and even the ability of ecosystems to sequester carbon, exacerbating the impact of climate change (Bartz et al., 2016). The loss of biodiversity due to sugarcane expansion not only impacts the immediate area but also has a cascading effect on the surrounding environments. This loss affects food security, local climates, and disease prevalence, which can have direct and indirect effects on human populations. Therefore, balancing sugarcane production with biodiversity conservation is essential to maintain the health of the planet and the well-being of all its inhabitants. 4 Drivers Behind Sugarcane Expansion 4.1 Economic factors promoting the growth of sugarcane agriculture Sugarcane agriculture has expanded significantly due to several key economic factors. The crop’s versatility, high productivity per hectare, and ability to generate multiple products including sugar, ethanol, and bioelectricity make it economically attractive. This has led to increased investments from both domestic and international stakeholders. Brazil, for instance, has seen a surge in foreign capital inflows, new mills, and more efficient agricultural practices, contributing to its status as a leading sugar and ethanol producer (Chagas, 2014).
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