Scientists say the warming of the Earth's atmosphere has begun to affect plant and animal life around the world. They say global warming is affecting endangered species, sea life and the change in seasonal activities of organisms. They studied different animal and plant populations around the world in the past thirty years. They say some species will disappear because they cannot move to new areas when their home climate gets too warm to survive.
I. Effects on coral reefs:
The scientists say one of the biggest signs of climate change has been the worldwide reduction in coral reefs. Rising temperatures in the world's warm ocean waters have caused coral to lose color and die.
II. Effects on polar animals:
In the coldest areas of the world, winter freezing periods are now happening later and ending earlier. Researchers say these changes are having severe effects on animals such as penguins, seals and polar bears.
III. Effects on reptiles and amphibians:
Changes in temperature and wetness in the air can also affect the reproduction of some reptiles and amphibians. For example, the sex of baby painted turtles is linked to the average temperature in July. Scientists say even small temperature increases can threaten the production of male turtles.
IV. Effects on plants and birds:
In Europe, scientists say warmer temperatures are affecting the spring and autumn seasons. This is affecting the growth of plants and delaying the flight of birds from one place to another. This untimely migration is causing extinction of different birds.