Tropical landscapes are among the most biodiverse on our planet. However, they are under serious threat from deforestation and climate change. The main deforestation drivers are large-scale cattle ranching and monoculture plantations, while illegal logging, mining, and infrastructure development pave the way for additional land-use conversion. Moreover, climate change modifies precipitation patterns and rising temperatures, which stress forest species, increase tree mortality, shift ecosystem boundaries, and increase wildfires' frequency, extent, and severity. Over the past 30 years, total deforestation may have surpassed 1.2 million square kilometers. This alarming trend leads to a cascade of ecological and management challenges. Fragmented Neotropical ecosystems become more vulnerable to fire, are less resilient against pests and pathogens, host fewer species, and show diminished functional and genetic diversity. The intricate feedback loops between forest fragmentation and degradation make restoring these ecosystems even more complex.

This symposium gathers various perspectives and innovative research in landscape ecology, explicitly focusing on neotropical ecosystems and their unique challenges while aiming to demonstrate their potential in applied science. The presentations will demonstrate the potential application of landscape ecology principles, methods, and approaches to create practical solutions for tropical issues, such as fire management, pest control, landscape restoration, genetic flow, and conserving taxonomic and functional diversity. The session will cover multiple habitats in Latin America, offering insights into urban, temperate, humid, and dry ecosystems within the Neotropics. The symposium aims to cultivate dialogue and feedback to promote applied landscape science and enhance research collaboration among young landscape ecologists.

This session is appealing to attendees of the Association for Tropical Biology and Conservation as it aligns with the mission to promote research and conservation in tropical regions. Participants will gain insight into actionable strategies for improving ecosystem resilience and fostering sustainable landscapes in response to global challenges. Whether you are a researcher, practitioner, or simply passionate about tropical ecosystems, this symposium provides a unique opportunity to engage with young leading experts in landscape ecology and explore ways to create resilient landscapes. Join us in sharing your ideas and becoming part of the solution for a sustainable future in tropical regions and beyond.