Effects of recent climate changes on the biodiversity of low mountain ranges - Literature review on species and habitats [Auswirkungen des rezenten klimawandels auf die biodiversität in Mittelgebirgen: Eine literaturstudie zu arten und lebensräumen]

Abstract

Montane species and habitats are highly threatened by recent climate change. Consequently, there is urgent need for action by nature conservation policy to face this challenge. This study reviews the effects of climate change on biodiversity within low mountain ranges with special reference to the ‘Hochsauerland' region (central Germany). One of the greatest threats for biodiversity associated with climate change is the increase of winter temperatures. Especially the overwintering stages of cold-adapted species are influenced negatively by warmer winter periods. Within rivers and streams species distributed within the upper reaches shift their ranges upward due to the potamalization effect. As a cause of reduced summer precipitation wetlands and upper reaches of streams are threatened by drying up. But also in drier habitats species sensitive to dryness are endangered by reduced summer precipitation. Nature conservation within low mountain ranges must aim at promoting the adaptability of montane species and habitats to climate change. Therefore, the implementation of measures for increasing habitat quality, heterogeneity and connectivity is highly recommended. © 2016, Verlag Eugen Ulmer. All rights reserved.