Adaptation to change: as the Wadden Sea affects humans and animals
Adaptation to change: as the Wadden Sea affects humans and animals
The challenge of climate change for the Wadden Sea
The Wadden Sea, a unique ecosystem on the North Sea, has been subject to significant changes in recent years. These developments have an impact on the animal residents of the area, but also on the people living there.
ecological importance of the Wadden Sea
The Wadden Sea plays a crucial role for numerous fish and bird species. Animal species such as herring, oyster fishermen and the Knutt use this habitat during an important part of their life cycle. The area acts as a breeding ground and food source, especially for young fish who find protection against predators here. The Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI) emphasizes that this ecological function of the Wadden Sea is endangered by climate change.
reactions of the species
In the face of the changed conditions, the species living in the Wadden Sea adapt to different ways. Genetic adjustments and phenotypical plasticity are central strategies. The latter means that individuals adapt their characteristics and appearance in response to environmental changes without genetic changes. For example, the reproductive strategy could be changed by creating more offspring to compensate for possible losses by heat.influences on the local population
The changes in the Wadden Sea concern not only the wildlife, but also the coastal communities. Experts such as Buschbaum and Shama warn of the imminent challenges. Coastal protection measures must be covered and tourism strategies have to be developed in order to take into account the changing conditions. This means that local communities have to take proactive steps to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Kommentare (0)