Climate-Changed Species?

Scientists estimate that our planet is home to more than 8.7 million species of plants and animals, each with its own unique characteristics and backstory. Our understanding of this vast and complex web of life is still in its infancy, with only 1.2 million species of the 8.7 million that have been officially found. Ecologists have attempted to gain further knowledge of these species through various ways. Some attempt to illuminate general principles that explain how these ecosystems work. Others investigate whether greater biodiversity tends to make ecosystems susceptible to invasion by exotic species. This plethora of ecological research demonstrates the phenomenon of the flow of materials and energy through Earth’s systems.

Organisms are shaped and influenced by the physical properties of the habitats they live in, including temperature. Scientists have found that organisms generally slow down or freeze when conditions are too cold, and as temperatures rise, organisms tend to overheat and lose function. This has caused species to evolve traits that protect themselves against extreme temperatures. Researchers have found that plants and cold-blooded animals in a cold environment develop dark coloration and position themselves to maximize solar energy. Conversely, in hotter regions, animals may avoid intense sun, while plants protect themselves by transpiring large amounts of water, maximizing air flow through foliage, or going dormant until cooler conditions.

Sea lions rely on thick layers of fat for insulation

Photo via New York Times

New Zealand's plants growing near geothermal vents gain heat tolerance from a virus within a fungus inside their roots.

Photo via NewScientist

These past findings pose an interesting question: will plants and animals be able to adapt to rising temperatures and the consequences of it?

One thing is clear, with higher temperatures, the delicate balance of wildlife and the ecosystem will be destabilized. While plants can adapt by blooming earlier or shifting to cooler locations, animals will be forced to face new environments. Some species may struggle to find nutritious food, losing their natural advantages and leaving more room for invasive species to multiply. Others may find that their habitats are no longer able to support them. However, some species may thrive in warmer temperatures, allowing them to outcompete others and expand their territory and food sources.

Climate change produces many threats to wildlife, rising temperatures lower many species survival rates caused by lesser availability for food, less successful reproductive ability, and interfere with natural habitats.