New Study Finds Climate Change Is Top Threat To Endangered Species

The authors of a BioScience article highlight that climate change has emerged as the leading threat to ESA-listed species, surpassing other causes of biodiversity loss for the first time.

Talia E. Niederman and her team at Defenders of Wildlife analyzed species threats using ESA listings, IUCN assessments, and new climate sensitivity evaluations.

In fact, a study of 2,766 endangered species in the United States and its territories shows that climate change now impacts 91% of ESA-listed species in this group.

Multiple Threats Amplify Risks to U.S. Imperiled Species

The authors examined five major drivers of biodiversity loss—climate change, land and sea use changes, overexploitation, pollution, and invasive species—finding that 86% of U.S. imperiled species face multiple threats.. Groups such as corals, bivalves, and amphibians face more threats than most other species on average.

The authors state, “Comprehensive climate sensitivity data makes climate change as significant a stressor to ESA-listed species as land and sea use changes, likely applying more broadly.”

Addressing Climate Change in Species Assessments and Management

However, the researchers stress that IUCN assessments and original ESA listing documents likely underestimate the number of species impacted by climate change.

They suggest that incorporating climate sensitivity into ESA listing decisions and management plans would better address the escalating threat of a rapidly changing climate.

The authors highlight the importance of acknowledging knowledge gaps that may mask other significant issues, especially those affecting species in urgent need of updated assessments.

To conclude, the authors conclude, “We do not need additional research to recognize that biodiversity is facing multiple ongoing threats.” IIt is crucial to swiftly address the five drivers of biodiversity loss across all affected taxa in order to prevent further extinctions from occurring.

Read the original article on: Phys.Org

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