ExChange: Assessing species extinction risk from climate change in the past, present, and future

• Applicants: Professorin Susanne Fritz, Ph.D.; Professorin Dr. Damaris Zurell
• Subject Area: Ecology and Biodiversity of Animals and Ecosystems, Organismic Interactions
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 569821681

The key aim of ExChange is to enhance our understanding of species’ extinction risk in large-bodied terrestrial mammals due to climate change. Building on extensive empirical and modelling analyses, we will: (i) test correlations between extinction risk and species traits, assessing consistency across past, present and future extinctions; (ii) evaluate variations in extinction risk estimates across models; and (iii) refine Red List guidelines with best practices for future risk classification. Our interdisciplinary approach combining paleoecology, conservation biology and theoretical ecology will strengthen the scientific basis for designing adequate and pragmatic solutions to the extinction crisis in the Anthropocene.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants