Israeli Butterfly Species Face Extinction Amid Climate Change
Translated & summarized from Walla by baba
A new international study involving Israeli researchers shows that 38% of butterfly species in Israel are endangered due to climate change, with an 18% decline in species richness over 13 years. The research found that about 80% of butterfly species globally are shifting their ranges, largely driven by climate change and extreme weather. Human activities like habitat destruction also contribute to species decline. The study recommends increased monitoring, citizen science, and habitat preservation to protect butterfly populations.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- 38% of Israeli butterfly species are endangered, with 11% critically so, according to a 2023 report.
- An international study found 80% of butterfly species are shifting habitats due to climate change.
- Butterfly species richness in Israel has declined by 18% in the 13 years preceding the report.
- Human activities like agriculture and urban development are destroying butterfly habitats.
- Researchers recommend enhanced monitoring and habitat preservation to protect endangered butterflies.
A new international study, with Israeli participation, reveals that many butterfly species are shifting their habitats due to climate change, expanding into new areas while disappearing from others. In Israel, the 2023 State of Nature report indicates that 38% of butterfly species are endangered, with 11% critically so. The report also noted an 18% decline in butterfly species richness in Israel over the 13 years prior.
The research analyzed data from over 6,000 documented distribution changes across 105 countries, covering 1,758 butterfly species. Approximately 80% of the studied species expanded their range, while 27% saw a reduction, and 22% altered their elevation, often moving to higher altitudes. The study links about 80% of these shifts to climate change and extreme weather events.
Dr. Oz Ben-Yehuda, a senior lecturer and study participant, explained that while range expansion might seem positive, it's not always a sign of successful adaptation. "Animals and plants have always spread throughout the world," he stated, noting that butterflies' ability to fly makes them adept at reaching new locations. He added that many species are moving northward as northern climates become more suitable, but this can lead to an "ecological debt" if the pace of climate change outstrips the species' ability to adapt.
Furthermore, Ben-Yehuda highlighted that butterflies often rely on specific host plants, and the disappearance of these plants due to habitat destruction from human activities like agriculture and urban development can lead to the butterflies' demise. He also pointed out that mountain-dwelling butterflies are moving to higher elevations, but eventually run out of room to ascend, leading to their extinction. In Israel, many threatened species are found in mountainous habitats above 600 meters, particularly on Mount Hermon.
The study suggests measures to prevent population collapse, including enhanced monitoring and research, citizen science initiatives for data collection, and the preservation of suitable habitats and ecological corridors. Ben-Yehuda emphasized that while the research has provided valuable insights, more study is needed to ensure butterfly conservation.