Seasick: Why Value Ecosystems Severely Threatened by Sea-Level Rise?

Abstract

Climate change will alter natural areas on a global scale within the next century. In areas vulnerable to climate change, scientists are regularly challenged to justify the resources needed for research and conservation. We face what may seem like a losing battle, especially in low-lying coastal areas where sea-level rise is predicted to severely degrade or destroy many ecosystems. Using sea-level rise in the low-elevation state of Florida, USA, as a case study, we argue that it is critical to remain engaged in the research, restoration, and conservation of natural areas threatened by climate change for as long as possible. These areas will continue to provide invaluable ecological and societal benefits. Additionally, uncertainty surrounding climate change forecasts and their ecological impact leaves room for optimism, research, and actions that are necessary for developing adaptation plans and mitigating further sea-level rise and other consequences of climate change. We urge scientists and particularly students beginning their careers not to forego research and conservation efforts of these imperiled lands but to face this unprecedented challenge with determination, creativity, and solution-based strategies.

Climate relict vulnerable to extinction from multiple climate‐driven threats

“…Small mammals endemic to coastal wetlands have been shown to readily move through inundated environments (Abuzeineh et al, 2007;Geissel et al, 1988), but they may require escape cover or other refugia from predators when inundation is widespread. Thus, as sea levels continue to rise, conservation of the unique animals associated with coastal wetlands may increasingly depend on targeted management, such as creating impoundments with water control structures (Braun de Torrez et al, 2020;Shellhammer, 1989).…”

Saltwater intrusion ecophysiological effects on Pseudophoenix sargentii, Roystonea regia, Sabal palmetto “Lisa,” and Thrinax radiata in South Florida

“…Climate change will alter natural areas on a global scale within the next century, especially in low-lying coastal areas where sea-level rise is predicted to severely degrade or destroy many ecosystems (Braun de Torrez et al, 2021). Climate change and variability contribute to increased warmer conditions, increased frequency of heavy rain that accounts for an increasing proportion of total rainfall, extreme weather characterized by spatially variable cycles of drought and wetness, increased frequency of tropical storms/hurricanes, increased frequency of storm surges, and accelerated rate of sea-level rise (SLR).…”