Outline the consequences of a global temperature rise on arctic ecosystems.

·      Changes in arctic conditions (arctic ice cap may disappear, permafrost will melt during the summer)

·      As the ice melts, sea levels will rise and flood low lying areas of land.

·      Expansion of temperate species increasing competition with native species (e.g. red fox vs arctic fox)

·      Increased spread of pest species and pathogens/diseases

·      Behavioral changes in native species (e.g. hibernation patterns of polar bears, migration of birds and fish, seasonal blooms of oceanic algae)

·      Loss of habitat (e.g. Marine species in the arctic water may become extinct as these are very sensitive to temperature changes within the sea)

·      Extinction and resultant loss of biodiversity as food chains are disrupted