Climate Change and It’s Effect on Biodiversity

( A Factual Report )

By: Arnante, Ara Joy A.

Climate change poses a profound threat to the delicate balance of ecosystems

worldwide, with far-reaching consequences for biodiversity. This report explores the intricate
interplay between climate change and its impacts on the diversity of life on Earth. The Earth's
rising temperatures, attributed to increased greenhouse gas emissions, directly impact
biodiversity. Many species are struggling to adapt to the changing climate, leading to shifts in
distribution patterns and the emergence of new challenges. Arctic habitats, for instance, are
witnessing the loss of ice cover, affecting iconic species like polar bears and seals. Climate
change is altering the chemistry of our oceans, resulting in acidification. This phenomenon poses
a threat to marine life, especially organisms with calcium carbonate skeletons, such as corals and
mollusks. Coral reefs, often referred to as the rainforests of the sea, face bleaching events and
degradation due to rising sea temperatures and acidity.

The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, droughts, and
wildfires, are on the rise due to climate change. These events not only directly impact species but
also disrupt their habitats. For example, wildfires devastate ecosystems, leading to loss of
vegetation and habitat destruction for countless species. Changes in temperature and habitat
conditions are affecting the migratory patterns of many species. Birds, butterflies, and marine
animals are altering their traditional routes and timings in response to shifting climate patterns.
This disruption poses challenges for species dependent on specific seasonal conditions for
breeding and feeding. Climate change is intricately linked to shifts in species' phenology, altering
the timing of key biological events such as flowering, migration, and breeding. These disruptions
can lead to a mismatch between species that depend on each other, like pollinators and flowering
plants. As a result, ecosystems face potential imbalances, affecting food webs and the overall
functioning of ecosystems .Rising temperatures also contribute to the spread of invasive species.
As climatic conditions change, new areas become hospitable to species that were once limited by
temperature constraints. Invasive species can outcompete native ones, leading to population
declines and biodiversity loss.The melting of ice in polar regions has dire consequences for
species adapted to these extreme environments.

Iconic species like polar bears, adapted to life on sea ice, face challenges in finding food as
ice retreats. Sea-level rise from melting ice caps threatens coastal habitats, impacting species that
rely on these areas for breeding and feeding.Understanding and addressing these nuanced effects
on biodiversity are crucial for developing effective conservation strategies. Climate change
mitigation and adaptation efforts must integrate considerations for the complex interactions
within ecosystems to safeguard the multitude of species facing existential threats. In conclusion,
the effects of climate change on biodiversity are undeniable and multifaceted. Urgent global
action is required to mitigate further damage and preserve the rich tapestry of life on our planet.
Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect critical habitats, and implement sustainable
practices are crucial in safeguarding biodiversity. Governments, communities, and individuals
must collaborate to address the root causes of climate change and work towards a more
sustainable and resilient future for the diverse array of species that share our planet. Only
through concerted efforts can we hope to mitigate the impacts of climate change on biodiversity
and ensure a harmonious coexistence of all living organisms.