Ecological Responses to Climate Change at Biogeographical Boundaries

Abstract

Temporal and spatial biogeographical boundaries are usually associated with extinction processes. However, some boundary regions seem to be places of speciation. It is unclear if boundaries are favored by generalized or specialized species. Recent studies suggest that narrow-ranging species can be strong competitors and they can replace wide-ranging species while shifting their range boundaries under the effect of climate change. In other boundary regions, the decline of both passive- and active-dispersing specialists has been observed. Core regions are also weakening. They are jeopardized mainly by extreme climate events and fragmentation and by the accompanied non-native invasions. Biodiversity loss and homogenization have been observed globally.