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A shift of 1 or 100% (darker colours) indicates that the region has fully moved into a completely different biome zone type. [1] Climate change is already now altering biomes, adversely affecting terrestrial and marine ecosystems. [2] [3] Climate change represents long-term changes in temperature and average weather patterns.
Climate change is impacting coastal ecosystems with sea level rises, ocean acidification, and increased storm frequency and intensity. When marine coastal ecosystems are damaged or destroyed, there can be serious consequences for the marine species that depend on them, as well as for the overall health of the ocean ecosystem.
Regions where oceanic or subtropical highland climates (Cfb, Cfc, Cwb, Cwc) are found. An oceanic climate, also known as a marine climate or maritime climate, is the temperate climate sub-type in Köppen classification represented as Cfb, typical of west coasts in higher middle latitudes of continents, generally featuring cool to warm summers and cool to mild winters (for their latitude), with ...
Anthropogenic climate change has the potential to greatly alter the distribution of Earth's biomes. [34] [35] Meaning, biomes around the world could change so much that they would be at risk of becoming new biomes entirely. [36] More specifically, between 54% and 22% of global land area will experience climates that correspond to other biomes.
The increasing stratification of the oceans due to climate change therefore acts generally to reduce ocean productivity. However, in some areas, such as previously ice covered regions, productivity may increase. This trend is already observable and is projected to continue under current projected climate change.
In addition, climate change impacts oceanic currents and sea levels, further altering fish distributions and habitats. Furthermore, ocean acidification , resulting from increased CO2 levels, compromises the ability of shellfish and corals to form shells and skeletons, further endangering marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.
Pelagic marine systems regulate the global climate, contribute to the water cycle, maintain biodiversity, provide food and energy resources, and create opportunities for recreation and tourism. [48] Economically, marine systems support billions of dollars worth of capture fisheries, aquaculture, offshore oil and gas, and trade and shipping.
Ocean acidification has increased 26% since the beginning of the industrial era. [91] It has been compared to anthropogenic climate change and called the "evil twin of global warming" [92] and "the other CO 2 problem". [93] Estimated change in sea water pH caused by human created CO