Climate Change from an Ecological Perspective Steven T. Rier Dept. of Biology and Allied health Photo by Chris Vogel
An ecological perspective? organisms (animals, plants, and microbes) interact in and with the natural world Sunlight Photosynthesis Cycling of Carbon, Nitrogen, & Phosphorus Ecosystem example
Humans are a part of ecosystems
Functional Ecosystems Balanced, adaptive, and diverse assemblage of organisms Often provide functions essential for humans – Detoxify pollutants in water – Lessen the effects of flooding – Pollination of crops
Effects of climate change on ecosystems are complex
Human Population Industry and transportation Agriculture CO 2 Increase Other human-caused disturbances Altered nutrient cycles Pollution Spread of exotic species Global climate change Land use/ cover changes Loss of ecosystem integrity
CO 2 Increase Global climate change Loss of ecosystem integrity
Direct effects of elevated CO 2 on Plants Increased production of C-based compounds More carbohydrates More fiber More tannin Less protein
Effects of elevated CO 2 on ecosystems
CO 2 Increase Global climate change Loss of ecosystem integrity
Global climate change Loss of ecosystem integrity WarmingExtreme weather eventsDrought
Human Population Industry and transportation Agriculture CO 2 Increase Other human-caused disturbances Altered nutrient cycles Pollution Spread of exotic species Global climate change Land use/ cover changes Loss of ecosystem integrity