Some Like It Hot: The Influence and Implications of Climate Change on Coffee Berry Borer (Hypothenemus hampei) and Coffee Production in East Africa
2011

Climate Change and Coffee Berry Borer in East Africa

publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Jaramillo Juliana, Muchugu Eric, Vega Fernando E., Davis Aaron, Borgemeister Christian, Chabi-Olaye Adenirin

Primary Institution: Institute of Plant Diseases and Plant Protection, University of Hannover, Hannover, Germany

Hypothesis

How will climate change affect the distribution and impact of the coffee berry borer in East Africa?

Conclusion

Climate change is expected to worsen the situation for coffee production in East Africa due to increased prevalence of the coffee berry borer.

Supporting Evidence

  • The coffee berry borer is now found at higher altitudes due to rising temperatures.
  • Predictions indicate that the number of generations of the coffee berry borer will increase significantly.
  • Climate change is expected to reduce suitable areas for coffee production in East Africa.

Takeaway

As the Earth gets warmer, a tiny bug that eats coffee beans is spreading and causing more damage, which is bad news for coffee farmers.

Methodology

The study used the CLIMEX model to predict future distributions of the coffee berry borer based on current climate data and future climate scenarios.

Limitations

The model's predictions are based on available climate data, which may be insufficient in some areas.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0024528

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