Changes in global climate heterogeneity under the 21st century global warming

Variations in climate types are commonly used to describe changes natural vegetation cover response global change. However, few attempts have been made quantify the heterogeneous dynamics of types. In this study, based on Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 5 (CMIP5) historical and representative concentration pathway (RCP) runs from 18 models, we Shannon’s Diversity Index (SHDI) Simpson’s (SIDI) characterise heterogeneity a morphological perspective. Our results show that calculated by SHDI/SIDI indices decreased 1901 2095 at significance level 0.01. As radiative forcing intensified RCP 2.6 8.5, significantly. Furthermore, observed spatial distribution was significantly reduced, with pronounced latitudinal trend. Sensitivity analysis indicated temperature increase played more significant role reducing than precipitation under three warming scenarios, which is possibly attributed anthropogenic forcing. findings suggest can be an effective means quantifying biodiversity loss.