Study Warns 36% of Land Animal Habitats to Face Multiple Extreme Weather Events by 2085

Overview A recent study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution warns that by 2085 more than one‑third of terrestrial wildlife habitats could be exposed to several Extreme weather events . The research, led by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) , examined 34,000 vertebrate species under a medium‑high emission scenario. Key Developments By 2050 , 74% of animal habitats on land are projected to face heatwaves, 16% wildfires, 8% droughts and 3% floods. Hotspots such as the Amazon, tropical Africa and Southeast Asia will see a sharp rise in event frequency. Native species are generally more vulnerable than non‑native species, and repeated events compound biodiversity loss. Some species may gain short‑term benefits; the ornate chorus frog, for example, experiences reduced predation during droughts. Important Facts The study underscores that a single heatwave or wildfire can decimate populations, but a series of events can lead to cascading ecosystem failures. According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) , an extreme event is “rare at a particular place and time, with unusual magnitude, location, timing or extent.” The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) notes that rising temperatures increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, droughts, floods, hurricanes and wildfires. UPSC Relevance Understanding the link between climate change and biodiversity loss is crucial for GS III (Environment) and GS II (Polity) questions on international climate agreements, national adaptation strategies, and the impact on agriculture and livelihoods. The study’s findings feed into discussions on the Climate Risk Index (CRI) , where India ranks 9th globally, highlighting the nation’s vulnerability and the need for robust policy responses. Way Forward Policymakers must prioritize ecosystem‑based adaptation, strengthen protected‑area networks in hotspots, and integrate climate‑resilient land‑use planning. Enhancing early‑warning systems, investing in research on species‑specific resilience, and promoting community‑driven conservation can mitigate the compounded impacts of multiple extreme events. For UPSC aspirants, tracking such scientific assessments helps anticipate future questions on climate‑policy implementation and biodiversity conservation.