Rising Sea Levels and Warmer Temperatures Could Lead to Disaster
Because sea turtles use both marine and terrestrial habitats during their life cycles, the effects of climate change have a devastating impact. With melting polar ice caps and rising sea levels, beaches are starting to disappear. As the water level begins to rise, the size of nesting beaches decrease. Stronger storms– a result of increasing temperatures– will continue to erode coastal habitats. Higher temperatures also adversely affect sea turtle gender ratio, which is impacted by the temperature of the sand. Increased incubation temperatures could result in more female sea turtles, which reduces reproductive opportunities and decreases genetic diversity.
Warmer ocean temperatures are also likely to negatively impact food resources for sea turtles, and virtually all marine species. Coral reefs, which are an important food source for sea turtles, are in great danger. Almost half of the coral reef ecosystems in the U.S. are in poor or fair condition, suffering from a “bleaching” effect that kills off parts of the reef. This current rate of global warming far exceeds the abilities of animals to adapt naturally to such dramatic environmental changes.
Taking a Closer Look
It’s Time For Humans to Cut the Carbon
Turtles have adapted to altered climates over millions of years, but today’s rapid changes could happen too quickly for them to evolve. It’s now up to humans to reverse the damage. While there is much debate about climate change and actions that can impact temperature, knowledge is power and collective influence can force change.
