The Role of Climate in Ecology
Climate plays a crucial role in shaping the ecosystems around us. It influences the types of species that can thrive in a particular environment and dictates the interactions between different organisms. Fossils and modern-day ecological studies have shown evidence of how climate changes have shaped the planet's biodiversity over millions of years.
Key Influences of Climate on Ecosystems
- Temperature: Determines the metabolic rates of organisms and affects their growth and reproduction.
- Precipitation: Influences water availability, impacting plant growth and animal survival.
- Seasonality: Alters food availability and breeding periods, often dictating migratory patterns.