Mangrove Trees Are on the Move, Taking the Tropics with Them
Mangrove trees are moving poleward due to climate change, impacting coastlines and expanding subtropical boundaries. Despite threats, they adapt and offer insights into climate impacts. Researchers study their ecological effects and potential benefits.
Read original article
Mangrove trees are shifting poleward due to climate change, with mangroves in North America moving northward over the past two decades. This migration is altering coastlines and expanding the subtropical boundary. Mangroves play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and biodiversity. Despite facing threats like development and extreme weather, mangroves are adapting and expanding their range. The migration of mangroves offers insights into future climate impacts as temperatures rise and sea levels increase. Ecologist Ilka C. Feller has been studying mangroves for years, tracking their movements and ecological impacts. The expansion of mangroves could provide a defense against sea-level rise and climate change, but it may also impact existing ecosystems like salt marshes. The unique characteristics and adaptations of mangrove species allow them to thrive in harsh coastal environments. Researchers are still exploring the implications of mangrove migration on wildlife and ecosystems as these trees continue to spread into new territories.
Related
CO2 is making Earth greener–for now Science
A study in Nature Climate Change shows significant greening on 25-50% of Earth's vegetated lands due to increased CO2 levels. This greening, twice the size of the US, benefits plant growth but contributes to climate change. Carbon dioxide explains 70% of the effect, impacting global cycles. Researchers warn of potential acclimatization over time.
Sicilian farmers are trading olives for papayas
In Sicily, Italy, climate change prompts farmers to shift from traditional crops to tropical fruits due to rising temperatures and erratic rainfall. This transition impacts communities, prompting cultural and agricultural adaptations.
Climate change to shift tropical rains northward, suggests computer modeling
A UC Riverside study warns of a northward shift in tropical rains due to unchecked carbon emissions. This shift will affect agriculture and economies near the equator, impacting major crops for about 20 years.
First local extinction due to sea level rise identified in the US
The Key Largo tree cactus, Pilosocereus millspaughii, has gone extinct in the US due to sea level rise, storms, and herbivory. Efforts are made to conserve related species facing similar threats.
First local extinction in the U.S. due to sea level rise
The Key Largo tree cactus, unique in the U.S., has become extinct due to sea level rise and storms. Efforts are made to conserve related species facing similar threats in South Florida.
0 commentsRelated
CO2 is making Earth greener–for now Science
A study in Nature Climate Change shows significant greening on 25-50% of Earth's vegetated lands due to increased CO2 levels. This greening, twice the size of the US, benefits plant growth but contributes to climate change. Carbon dioxide explains 70% of the effect, impacting global cycles. Researchers warn of potential acclimatization over time.
Sicilian farmers are trading olives for papayas
In Sicily, Italy, climate change prompts farmers to shift from traditional crops to tropical fruits due to rising temperatures and erratic rainfall. This transition impacts communities, prompting cultural and agricultural adaptations.
Climate change to shift tropical rains northward, suggests computer modeling
A UC Riverside study warns of a northward shift in tropical rains due to unchecked carbon emissions. This shift will affect agriculture and economies near the equator, impacting major crops for about 20 years.
First local extinction due to sea level rise identified in the US
The Key Largo tree cactus, Pilosocereus millspaughii, has gone extinct in the US due to sea level rise, storms, and herbivory. Efforts are made to conserve related species facing similar threats.
First local extinction in the U.S. due to sea level rise
The Key Largo tree cactus, unique in the U.S., has become extinct due to sea level rise and storms. Efforts are made to conserve related species facing similar threats in South Florida.