THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON PLANT AND ANIMAL SPECIES
Climate change is the variation of average weather conditions such as temperature and rainfall over a long period of time. As climate system undergoes unprecedented shifts, the balance of the ecosystem is being disrupted. These shifts can be natural, due to changes in the sun’s activity or large volcanic eruptions but human activities have been the main driver of climate change, mainly due to the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas generating greenhouse gases that cause global warming.
Effect of climate change on biodiversity
Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns are leading to habitat degradation and loss thus threatening species that depend on specific environments. Climate change has also led to increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as droughts, wildfires and hurricanes. Plants and animals lose their habitats and are at risk of extinction.Coral reefs host an array of marine life. Coral bleaching events are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change. As the coral dies, the fish and other sea creatures that depend on it lose their habitats leading to a decline in local biodiversity, as well as disruptions in the food chain.
As climate change causes temperature to rise, ice in the Arctic and Antarctic regions melts. This affects animals’ habitats and also rises sea levels around the planet affecting marine life.Many species are struggling to adapt or migrate to more suitable habitats. It is estimated that most species on this planet will have to move faster than 1,000 meters per year if they are to keep within the climate zone which they need for survive.
Endangered animal species
The Bramble Cay melomys has gone extinct as a direct result of climate change. It was found only on the island of Bramble Cay in Great Barrier Reef, its habitat was destroyed by rising sea levels.Krill populations are reducing in the Arctic Ocean due to increased ice melting and ocean acidification.Adélie Penguins, blue whales and seals which depend on krill as a primary food source are therefore facing food shortages.
Polar bears depend on sea ice for hunting seals. They are therefore forced to travel longer distances to hunt thus reduced reproduction rates.The melting of sea ice has also reduced hunting opportunities of arctic foxes leading to decrease in their population.
Higher temperatures during egg incubation of green sea turtles cause imbalanced female to male sex ratio. About 99% of the hatched turtles are females thus lower reproduction rates.As climate change causes shifts in vegetation and temperature zones, Mountain gorillas of central Africa have to find suitable habitats and food sources as they are adapted to high altitude areas.Amphibians such as frogs and toads are struggling to survive because they are highly sensitive to changes in temperature and moisture. Warmer temperatures are affecting their breeding and causing increased infections such as chytrid fungus. Their population is decreasing worldwide.
The black rhinoceros are an endangered species. This is due to altered vegetation patterns and water unavailability.Climate change has disrupted timing of flowering and fruiting of trees decreasing food availability for African chimpanzees.
Eastern Grevy’s zebra is an endangered zebra species. Climate change has altered vegetation patterns and caused water unavailability in the arid and semiarid regions of northern Kenya which is their habitat.African lions are affected by changing prey distribution. Herbivores such as zebras and wildebeests which are their main food, are reducing in population due to altered rainfall and vegetation.Various fish species that depend on coral reefs along Kenyan coastline are being affected by climate change. Rising sea levels, temperatures and ocean acidification are destroying the coral reefs.African elephants especially those in arid and semiarid regions of Kenya are struggling to survive due to decreased water availability, vegetation sources and increased heat stress.
Endangered plant species
Glacier Lily, native to western North America, is closely tied to the melting of snowpack. The glacier lily emerges in spring from areas where snow has recently melted. With earlier snowmelt due to warmer temperatures, the timing of the flower’s emergence may no longer match the availability of pollinators or other resources.Mountain Hemlock, native to the mountainous regions of North America, is facing challenges as warmer temperatures cause tree line shifts. As temperatures rise, these trees are being pushed higher up the mountains, often into habitats that may not be suitable for their growth.
Quiver Tree found in arid regions of southern Africa, is struggling due to changing rainfall patterns and increased temperatures. Drought stress and reduced water availability are causing declines in population size and affecting their ability to reproduce.The giant redwoods of California face challenges as changing temperature and precipitation patterns impact their growth and regeneration. These massive trees are particularly vulnerable to drought stress and the increased risk of wildfires.
The unique alpine and sub-alpine ecosystems on Mount Kenya are home to a variety of plant species adapted to the cooler conditions at high elevations. As temperatures rise, these habitats may shift or shrink, affecting the distribution of plants like giant lobelias and other alpine species.East African Acacia Trees; Acacia trees are iconic components of the East African landscape. Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns can affect their growth and distribution. These trees provide important ecosystem services; including shade and forage for wildlife, and their decline could have cascading effects on the entire ecosystem.East African pencil cedar and various indigenous trees are at risk due to increased temperatures, changing precipitation, and potential shifts in cloud cover, which play a role in maintaining the unique conditions of these forests.
Animals, plants and humans coexist within ecosystems through a complex web of interactions. Plants serve as the foundation of most ecosystems, producing oxygen and providing food for animals including humans. Animals play roles in pollination, seed dispersal, and maintaining population balances.Humans interact with these ecosystems by utilizing plants and animals for food, medicine, and resources.
Climate change has a profound impact on biodiversity, leading to altered ecosystems, and increased extinction risks. We can all do something to combat climate change. For example by reducing emission of greenhouse gases by less use of motor vehicles and opting to walk or ride a bicycle. We can also plant trees which act as carbon sinks and help to bring rainfall.
article by :judy kisangi