What impact does climate change typically have on biodiversity?

Climate change typically leads to various environmental changes, such as shifting temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events. These changes can disrupt ecosystems and the delicate balance of species interactions.

As habitats become unsuitable for many species, some may face extinction, while others may be forced to migrate to more favorable conditions. This often results in a loss of species diversity, particularly in sensitive areas like coral reefs, tropical rainforests, and polar regions where many unique species are already at risk. Additionally, invasive species may thrive in changed climates, outcompeting native species for resources and further diminishing biodiversity.

In contrast, increasing biodiversity or promoting adaptation as consequences of climate change are generally not supported by the prevailing scientific understanding. While some species may adapt to changing conditions, the overall trend tends to show that many species are unable to cope with the rapidity of climate change. Therefore, the most accurate impact of climate change on biodiversity is that it generally decreases biodiversity through habitat loss, changes in species interactions, and increased extinction rates.