What is one effect of climate change on ecosystems?

Climate change significantly affects ecosystems by altering species distributions and migrations. As temperatures rise and weather patterns change, many species are compelled to shift their range to find suitable habitats that meet their climatic needs, such as temperature and precipitation. This dynamic can lead to species moving towards cooler areas, typically poles or higher altitudes, or even to different ecosystems altogether.

Additionally, as some species migrate, they may encounter new competitors, predators, or resources, leading to shifts in community dynamics and potentially altering the fundamental structure of ecosystems. This kind of change highlights the sensitivity of ecosystems to climate variations and demonstrates the interconnectedness of species and their environments.

Overall, the migration and distribution of species in response to climate change can have profound implications for biodiversity, ecosystem services, and the resilience of natural habitats.