Temperature and precipitation mapping to evaluate alternative forages in the face of climate change in Southern Honduras

Abstract

Introduction. Climate change has a noticeable effect on global temperature and precipitation patterns, posing challenges for agriculture and livestock production. Consequently, adaptation strategies are needed to help improve crop yields and livestock production. This study showed the analysis of future projections of precipitation and temperature variables in the municipality of San Marcos de Colón, Choluteca, Honduras. Methods. The analysis of climate variables was carried out in the RStudio program, using data from the WorldClim and Agua de Honduras platforms. Likewise, accumulated precipitation histograms were analyzed from the ClimateCharts platform, as well as projections of the Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) 8.5 scenarios for the years 2030, 2050 and2080. Results. In 2070, a reduction in precipitation is estimated between 10 and 40 mm and expected during the months of July and August, in addition to an increase in temperature of up to 4 °C according to the RCP 8.5 scenario. Conclusion. The need to adapt to climate change in Choluteca is reflected in lower precipitation and higher temperature projections for 2070. Considering these results, it is recommended to evaluate alternative forages such as King Grass and others.