Mediterranean Climate Change

By: Katelin Kukk

Photographs by accomplished landscape and travel photographer Steve Heap

Now the Mediterranean, renowned for its breathtaking sights and status as the world’s leading tourist destination. It has the bragging right of owning the largest enclosed sea on Earth, linked to the Atlantic solely through the 12 km-wide Strait of Gibraltar. Its crystal blue waters and diverse marine life captivate visitors, drawing them to this stunning location. Despite covering a mere 0.7% of the world’s oceans, the Mediterranean Sea harbors remarkable biodiversity and carries proof it’s had this appeal since ancient times.

Some of the earliest species found in the Mediterranean Sea date 200 million years ago, around the Jurassic period. Ichthyosaur deposits, whale-sized marine reptiles, were found in the precursor of the Mediterranean, the Swiss High Alps. Ribs, a vertebra, and a tooth were discovered in the mountains and the creature was thought to be around 20 meters long. Other fossils dating back millions of years, like sponges, fish, crocodiles, and even dinosaurs were also discovered. Thus, indicating the ancient Mediterranean exhibited rich biodiversity comparable to that of the modern day.

Though the Mediterranean Sea has always displayed a wide range of biodiversity, it now hosts some of our planet’s rarest creatures. This region functions as both a crucial feeding and spawning ground for organisms. It attracts diverse marine life, including some of which are now endangered. You can find plenty of species of fish, turtles, sharks, whales, seals, and more within these seas. Deeper in its waters lie sponge fields, coral reefs, and kelp forests. Which not only offer protection but also serve as other vital feeding grounds. Sadly, climate change has started its impact on Mediterranean habitats, putting the lives of wildlife at risk.

Climate change in the Mediterranean Sea has prompted an alarming cascade of effects. Air and water temperatures have risen, and pH levels have dropped, all detrimental to the environment. This region is warming 20% faster than the global average, with profound impacts becoming increasingly obvious. Flooding, ocean acidification, and rising sea levels are growing, significantly impacting tourism and recreational activities. While this may be affecting the surrounding environment, it is also harming local wildlife.

Many organisms are being forced to relocate to survive. Fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and more are moving to deeper waters to manage the increasing heat from the rising temperatures. Several patterns have emerged indicating what species are moving and where to survive. A plethora of alien species have also made their way into the Mediterranean. Warmer waters are luring more invasive species in, at least 600 species have been identified. Specifically, the American comb jelly, the most invasive species, has been damaging fisheries and ecosystems. With these new incomers and changes, the future of the Mediterranean is under threat.

Scientists have made many predictions about the Mediterranean, and its future is not positive. From observations and research, they expect water temperatures to increase to a maximum of 3.5° C while sea levels are expected to rise to a maximum of 2.5 meters by 2100. The region will also be susceptible to increased heat waves, coastal erosion, ocean acidification, and rising ocean floods. With that in mind, it is projected that wildlife will start to suffer. Most populations would start to decline, and massive migrations would occur. Overall, this ecosystem would no longer be inhabitable by its native species and the biodiversity would decrease.

Overall, the Mediterranean is a gorgeous place to visit and is teeming with life. If this place wasn’t on your bucket list, make it now because of its possible deterioration in the near future. Climate change has been harming the ecosystem and people living in the region. Hopefully, with time, we can reverse the damage we have done and save some of the disappearing creatures. Now let’s head on over to Asia and see how the mangroves in the Sundarbans are holding up!