As the average global temperature is increasing, ecosystems are changing. This process is occurring faster than in the past, which is harming numerous plant and animal species. In a world of constant climate change, many species are forced to adapt to new realities that, in many cases, threaten their very survival.
There are many animals that are in danger of extinction due to global warming, some more well-known than others. However, all of these animals are struggling to survive in a world that is becoming increasingly strange and hostile. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), if the situation does not change, approximately one in three species could disappear in the coming decades. This means that tomorrow's children may not know about iconic species such as the koala, the sea turtle or Snow Leopard.
La contamination, the deforestation and the Rising sea levels These are just some of the many problems that animals face today. For example, american spades, rodents native to Oregon and Nevada (United States), are migrating to higher altitudes because their natural habitat is becoming too warm. This type of movement is critical, as these animals cannot survive if temperatures exceed 25ºC. The decline of their habitat forces them to seek refuge in terrain that is still fresh, although this often results in an uphill battle for survival due to the Global warming effects.
Those species that live in colder regions, such as the reindeer, are dealing with a food shortage due to climate change. Even the polar bears They are forced to travel long distances in search of prey, which increases the risk in their search for food. A study cited in the journal Nature indicates that the population of penguins could decrease by a 19% during this century. This drastic reduction is linked to habitat loss and the decline of their food source, which often depends on the krill that lives in icy waters.
Scientists have identified several species that are particularly vulnerable due to climate change. These include:
- Adelie Penguin: They need krill for food. The reduction of their habitat on the ice sheets is forcing these birds to migrate farther in search of food, which affects their ability to reproduce.
- North Atlantic cod: Overfishing has dramatically affected these populations. The decline in prey availability is also linked to changes in ocean currents and colder water flows from the Arctic.
- Acropora cervicornis corals: The unstoppable decline of this species of coral is endangering not only them but also the numerous species that depend on them for survival.
- Golden Toad: Considered extinct in 1989, this species suffered habitat loss due to global warming, in addition to the threat of a fungus that has wiped out many anuran species.
Impact of Climate Change on Species in Spain
In the European context, climate change has threatened several species in Spain. According to Ecologists in Action, it is estimated that approximately 51% of vertebrate species on the Iberian Peninsula may require conservation and adaptation measures to address their effects. This number could increase significantly by the end of the century.
Among the most threatened species in Spain are:
- Iberian lynx: This feline, considered the most endangered in the world, has seen a resurgence thanks to conservation efforts. However, changing temperatures could turn its breeding grounds into hostile environments within 50 years.
- Grizzly: Despite being protected since 1973, the species continues to face significant challenges in its habitat due to climate change, which affects both its diet and reproduction.
- Capercaillie: This mountain bird is experiencing a drastic decline in population as warmer temperatures have led to a reduction in its habitat, contributing to its endangerment.
- Rock ptarmigan: Adapted to extreme cold, this species has already disappeared from several regions due to global warming, which is altering its life cycle and habitat.
El climate change It's not only affecting iconic species, but is also impacting a wide variety of lesser-known animals. For example:
- African elephant: It faces water shortages due to longer droughts and higher temperatures, which puts its survival at risk.
- Platypus: This monotreme also faces the risk of extinction due to the loss of its aquatic habitat and the pollution of its waters.
- Bees: Known as the world's pollinators, their populations are declining due to climate change and pesticide use, affecting crop production globally.
- Axolotl: This amphibian is considered critically endangered due to the pollution of its habitat in Mexico, which is the only place where this species is found.
It has also been shown that extreme temperatures and contamination are factors that increase the vulnerability of many species. It is estimated that, under current conditions, 5,200 species of animals are in danger of extinction worldwide. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), this represents nearly 11% of the birds, the 20% of the reptiles, the 34% of the fish and approximately the 25% of mammals and amphibians.
Climate change remains one of the greatest threats to biodiversity. Species conservation is directly linked to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and implementing effective policies to preserve critical habitats. To better understand this connection, it is important to review the main causes of global warming and its impact on ecosystems.
Conservation efforts must be accompanied by measures that promote the use of renewable energy, the creation of ecological corridors and education on the importance of biodiversity for our ecosystems.
As we move into an uncertain future, it is critical to take a proactive approach to addressing climate change and its effects on living beings. Otherwise, the world we inherit will not only be a place affected by climate change, but also one where many of the species we currently know and appreciate may be just a memory of the past.
Thus, the role of science, education, and the conscious action of individuals is essential to halting the march of extinction and ensuring that our ecosystems remain vibrant and healthy. The future of the planet depends on our current actions and how we respond to this impending crisis.
