Change North Sea: Temperature increase is threatened by the Wadden Sea
Change North Sea: Temperature increase is threatened by the Wadden Sea
an alarming sign: the change in the Wadden Sea
The Wadden Sea in the North Sea has been understood for some time a drastic change, which is discussed in a recent report by scientists from the Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI). These changes are due to global warming and take place at a speed that is described as unprecedented. Climate change not only affects the environment, but also has profound effects on the life of the plant and animal species located there.
ecosystems in danger: effects of climate change
With a temperature increase of almost two degrees in the past 60 years, the Wadden Sea warms up almost twice as quickly as many other seas worldwide. The researchers emphasize that mild winter and extreme summer heat, which are up to five degrees above average, lead to more common heat waves that not only burden the water flora and fauna, but also consider the structure of the entire coastal ecosystem significantly. Many fish species, including the cod, are particularly affected by these changes and suffer from additional pressure from overfishing.
The role of the Wadden Sea for the biodiversity
The Wadden Sea has an important function as a habitat for numerous fish species such as herring and different bird species that use the area as a nursery and food source. However, these biological niches are at risk from the changes that climate change brings. A withdrawal of many types in cooler waters could destabilize the food networks and the ecosystem as a whole. Migratory patterns could also be severely affected if species are forced to look for new habitats.
an adaptation of the species: challenge and hope
Despite the dramatic conditions, some types have shown that they are able to adapt to the changed circumstances. For example, Wadden Sea organisms can change their behavior or adapt their reproduction to compensate for possible losses due to the extreme temperatures. This flexibility could be viewed as a glimmer of hope, even if most types are delivered serious loads.
consequences for the coastal region and people
The research results illustrate the need that coastal protection measures and tourism plans are checked and adapted to the new circumstances. Climate change affects not only nature, but also on human ways of life in coastal regions. The municipalities along the North Sea are faced with the challenge of finding the balance between protective measures for the environment and the use of these unique habitats.
Overall, the AWI researcher report shows that the Wadden Sea, as one of the most important ecosystems in Germany, not only plays an important role as a biodiversity hotspot, but also represents a critical alarm sign for the effects of climate change. Protection and sustainable use of this region are therefore of central importance in order to alleviate the negative consequences for the ecosystem and the people in the area.
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