The greenhouse effect and nature reserves

Publication Type:

Journal Article

Authors:

Peters, Robert L.; Darling, Joan D S

Source:

Bioscience, American Institute of Biological Sciences, Volume 35, Issue 11, p.707-717 (1985)

Call Number:

A85PET03IDUS

Abstract:

In this paper we identify problems caused by climate change that affect biological communities, examine the particular difficulties faced by species in biological reserves, and suggest management options. Although we recognize that dealing with short-term extinction threats alone will strain the resources of conservationists, we feel that the possible negative effects of global warming could be so severe that conservation plans should be amended to reflect knowledge of climatic effects s soon as it becomes available. Decisions about the siting and design of reserves and assumptions about how much management will be needed in the future must reflect the increased demands, both economic and biological, of global warming.