Which factor can exacerbate the effects of climate change on forests?

Invasive species can significantly exacerbate the effects of climate change on forests. These non-native species can disrupt the ecological balance by outcompeting native plants for resources such as light, water, and nutrients. As climate change alters temperature, precipitation patterns, and overall forest health, invasive species may thrive under these new conditions, further stressing native ecosystems.

For instance, forests stressed by drought or warmer temperatures may become more susceptible to invasion, as invasive species can often be more resilient to such changes. Furthermore, invasive species can contribute to reduced biodiversity, which is crucial for the resilience of forest ecosystems. Healthy, biodiverse forests are generally better able to adapt to changing conditions, but the introduction and proliferation of invasive species can weaken this adaptability, making forests more vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change.

Conservation efforts and renewable energy initiatives typically work to mitigate the impacts of climate change rather than exacerbate them, while increased precipitation is not inherently negative and can benefit certain forest ecosystems depending on the context.