The acceleration of human-driven climate warming in recent decades has had lasting effects across Arctic regions. Ongoing temperature increases and ice loss have substantially altered the physical and biochemical properties of these ecosystems, leading to changes in food availability and nutrient exchange in marine environments. This study examined species richness and distribution trends across eight Artic marine areas between 2000 and 2019 to better understand the impacts of climate warming on Arctic biodiversity.
Authors used data from satellites and biogeochemical models to assess environmental factors including zooplankton, chlorophyll-a concentrations and salinity. They then compiled occurrence records for 69 marine taxa (26 apex predators and 43 mesopredators) accessed through GBIF, OBIS and NOAA databases and used species distribution modelling to analyze biodiversity patterns.
Results showed that changes in temperature and ocean productivity had variable effects on Arctic marine biodiversity across different regions. Species richness and productivity generally increased along inflow and outflow shelves (where different oceans meet) and continental slopes. However, other regions experienced species declines during low sea ice periods. Areas of greatest climate warming were identified in northern areas, where habitat expansion of apex and mesopredators were more evident. These findings demonstrate that Arctic landscapes are rapidly transforming, and highlights the importance of flexible conservation planning that accounts for regional variability and species responses under different climate scenarios.