3. Forest Ecosystems
Forests around the world are also under threat from climate change. Increased temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and more frequent and intense wildfires are changing the composition of these ecosystems. Tropical forests, like the Amazon, are becoming drier and more susceptible to fires, while boreal forests are experiencing more pest outbreaks and tree diseases, which can devastate large swathes of woodland.
4. Freshwater Ecosystems
Lakes, rivers, and wetlands are affected by changes in rainfall and temperature patterns, leading to altered water availability and quality. These changes can result in habitat loss for freshwater species and alter the water cycles that are critical for both human and ecological health. Additionally, warmer waters can harm species unable to adapt to heightened temperatures and facilitate the proliferation of harmful algal blooms.
5. Grasslands and Savannas
Grasslands and savannas are experiencing shifts in their climatic regimes, which in turn affect their plant and animal communities. Increased temperatures and changing precipitation patterns are leading to more frequent droughts, altering the plant species composition and reducing the availability of food for herbivores. These changes can lead to decreased biodiversity and disrupt traditional grazing patterns used by both wildlife and livestock.
