How does climate change typically affect forests?

Climate change significantly impacts forests by altering growth patterns and increasing pest infestations. Over the past decades, rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events have all contributed to shifts in forest ecosystems. These changes can lead to alterations in tree growth rates and species distribution, as trees may struggle to survive outside their optimal climate conditions.

As climate change affects the habitat suitability for certain species, it often leads to the proliferation of pests and diseases that thrive in warmer conditions, potentially resulting in increased infestations. For instance, bark beetles and other forest pests may expand their range and reproduce more rapidly as temperatures rise, thereby negatively impacting tree health and forest structure.

This phenomenon illustrates the interconnectedness of climate, ecological dynamics, and forest health, emphasizing the vulnerability of these ecosystems in the face of climate change.