Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity
Overview
> Jump to impact by region
Projected impacts on biodiversity due to climate change, extreme climatic events and climate variability include changes in:
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the timing of animal and plant reproduction;
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the length of the growing season;
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species distribution and population sizes, including the possibility of extinction of species with limited climatic ranges and restricted habitat requirements;
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frequency of pest and disease outbreaks; and
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species migration (movement of species poleward or upward in elevation from their current location).
Adaptation-related projects on biodiversity should focus on maintaining or strengthening the resilience of species and/or ecosystems threatened by climate change. Projects should reflect dynamic, long-term response measures.
Impact by region
The above map on climate impacts on biodiversity, based on a study by the University of Arizona, shows regions that have experienced droughts lasting a decade or longer (labelled "DD") as well as regions with abrupt shifts in hurricane frequency (labelled "HT"). The expected impacts on biodiversity due to climate change (including variability) will vary from region to region. The frequency, intensity, extent and locations of climate-induced disturbances will determine the rate at which existing ecosystems are affected.
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