How can climate change influence biodiversity?

Study for the Ecology Regents Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

Climate change significantly influences biodiversity primarily through habitat loss and increased extinction rates. As global temperatures rise, many ecosystems are altered, causing shifts in the natural habitats that various species depend on for survival. This can lead to the degradation of critical environments such as coral reefs, forests, and wetlands, which are essential for a multitude of species.

Species that cannot adapt quickly to these changing conditions may face increased competition for resources, altered food availability, and a higher risk of becoming endangered or extinct. Additionally, climate change can create more extreme weather patterns—such as prolonged droughts, intense storms, or rising sea levels—that further threaten the survival of both plant and animal species.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the realities of climate change’s impact on biodiversity. Stating that climate change has no effect on species distribution overlooks the established evidence of shifting ranges in response to changing climates. Claiming it promotes the growth of all species ignores the fact that many species may struggle or decline, particularly those with limited adaptability. Lastly, suggesting that climate change ensures stable climate patterns is fundamentally incorrect, as it is characterized by increasing instability and variability in weather conditions. Thus, understanding that climate change leads to habitat loss and increased extinction rates encapsulates the true nature of

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