How does climate change primarily affect biodiversity?

Climate change primarily affects biodiversity by altering habitats and leading to species extinction. As global temperatures rise, weather patterns shift, and ecosystems undergo significant changes, various species find their habitats altered in ways that can be unlivable for them. For example, warming temperatures can result in the melting of polar ice, altering the marine and coastal ecosystems, or changing the distribution of plant and animal species. This disruption can lead to loss of habitat—such as the destruction of coral reefs or forests—which many species rely on for food, shelter, and breeding.

As these habitats transform, some species are unable to adapt quickly enough to survive, leading to declines in their populations or even extinction. This cascading effect not only impacts the species at risk but also affects the entire ecosystem, as each species plays a specific role in maintaining ecological balance. Furthermore, the loss of biodiversity reduces resilience in ecosystems, making them less capable of resisting future environmental changes. Thus, the significant impact of climate change on habitat alteration is a critical factor contributing to biodiversity loss.