Which factor is often affected by climate change in ecosystems?

Species migration patterns are significantly influenced by climate change because alterations in temperature and weather conditions directly affect the habitats and resources that species rely on. As climates shift, many organisms may find their current habitats unsuitable for survival due to changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, and the availability of food resources.

For instance, as temperatures rise, certain species may migrate toward cooler areas, such as higher altitudes or latitudes, in search of suitable living conditions. This can lead to changes in community structures, as some species may thrive while others, unable to relocate, face population declines or extinction.

Additionally, migration patterns can affect ecosystems on a broader scale; for example, changes in the migration of pollinators like bees can impact plant reproduction, while shifts in the ranges of predators may alter prey dynamics. These interactions illustrate how interconnected and sensitive ecosystems are to climatic changes.