Now Reading: Butterflies moving habitats worldwide as climate changes
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Butterflies moving habitats worldwide as climate changes
A new global study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution has found that about one in every ten butterfly species has shifted its geographic range or moved to a different elevation in…
The Story in Brief
A new global study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution has found that about one in every ten butterfly species has shifted its geographic range or moved to a different elevation in response to climate change and extreme weather. The study analysed 1,758 species across 105 countries. Of the species that changed, 80% expanded into new areas while 27% contracted, disappearing from previous habitats. Range expansions were recorded on every continent, especially in the tropics, while contractions were mainly in Europe and North America. The Times of India reports that the tawny coster butterfly, native to India, spread to Australia in 2012 and has since moved 135 km each year.
The Indian Opinion
The study’s finding that 80% of shifting butterflies are expanding may sound like good news. But expansion does not mean thriving, a species can spread into unsuitable areas and still decline. The real story is more mixed: contractions in Europe and North America, and complex gains and losses for some species. The tawny coster butterfly, having spread from India to Australia at 135 km per year, raises a pointed question: will it be hailed as a climate survivor or watched as a potential pest?
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
