Welcome to vnonline.co.uk

vnonline.co.uk provides the veterinary nursing profession with the latest news and industry developments, as well as events, resources, learning materials and careers.

Our website is dedicated to veterinary nurses and we strive to provide a platform where you can voice and explore your interests.

Not a member yet? Sign up for free!

Register for free with vnonline.co.uk to gain unlimited access to news, resources, jobs and much more!



Click here to become a member






Log in to vnonline

Forgot your password?

Posted: 5th May 2015

Global warming threatens one in six species
Bearded dragon
Amphibians and reptiles are predicted to have greater extinction risks.
Amphibians and reptiles at greatest risk

One in six species could face extinction if global temperatures rise by 4°C, according to research by the University of Connecticut.

Published in Science, the study reveals that South America, Australia and New Zealand face the greatest extinction risks.

The study also shows that endemic species with smaller ranges and certain taxonomic groups, such as amphibians and reptiles, are predicted to have greater extinction risks.

It is hoped that this new understanding will help scientists prepare for, and hopefully prevent, climate-related loss of biodiversity.

Dr Mark Urban from the University of Connecticut analysed 131 predictions about extinction risks from climate change. Previous estimates suggest that anywhere from 0-54 per cent of species could be affected.

He found that the extinction risk from climate change is predicted not only to increase, but accelerate as temperatures rise.

If temperatures rise by 2°C, then global extinction risk will increase from 2.8 per cent to 5.2 per cent. However, if climate change was to continue on its current trajectory (4°C), then one in six species will face extinction.

Speaking to BBC News, Dr Urban said:  "If the world does not come together and control greenhouse gas emissions and we allow the Earth to warm considerably we will face a potential loss of one in six species.

"Many species will be able to shift their ranges and keep up with climate change whereas others will not either because their habitat has disappeared or because they can't reach their habitat anymore."

Australia, new Zealand and South America are predicted to have higher extinction risks because they harbour many species adapted to live in habitats not found elsewhere.

Countries found to have the lowest extinction risks were North America and Europe. 



Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history



Latest news | Careers | Events | Resources | Contact us | Terms and conditions | Data Protection and Privacy |Cookie policy | About us | Copyright
© 2024 Vision Media, all rights reserved. vnonline.co.uk is not responsible for the content of external websites.