A new publication led by MJ Karichu, PhD student in City University of New York and NY Botanical Garden modeled potential changing distributions of African tree ferns (Alsophila spp.) from the last glacial maximum to present day and into the next decades using MAXENT, a species distribution modeling tool.  African tree ferns are currently under decline due to a number of causes, and with climate change, this study shows varying responses among species to future climate scenarios.  The study highlights the importance of refuge areas that have persisted since the late Pleistocene for African tree ferns.  These refuges harbor tree fern species today and predicted to be suitable habitat into the future.  MJ started his PhD program at University of Florida under advisement of Dr. Emily Sessa.  Emily and MJ recently moved to NY Botanical Garden, where Emily took a curator’s position. To access the paper click here.