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| Least Weasels as drawn by skilled illustrator |
In a recent study in Science Journal, climate researchers L.
Scott Mills, et al, are using seasonal coat changes as an example to
demonstrate the need for adaptive rescue strategies for saving species from
human initiated climate change. Many species in snow covered areas have adapted
to seasonal snow by possessing white coats in the winter and then shedding them
for brown coats when snow is less prevalent, this trait is known as winter coat
polymorphism. The study tracked the coloration of four species of hares, three
weasles, and arctic wolves in relation to their geographical location and
annual snow cover. Using over 2500 samples from over 60 countries the researchers
determined ranges for the species sampled where there are white only, brown
only, and both white and brown.
This research is important for conservationists to recognize
the effect adaption has on fitness in changing climates. It recognizes in
discreet ways how sharp decreases in biodiversity can be counteracted by shifts
in the frequencies of traits in populations. Populations of those species that
change coats seasonally may have higher success in the future as warmer winters
become more frequent than monomorphic populations.
This study provides an example of how climate change is affecting
a wide range of species. From this, we can make much broader generalizations and
models of other endangered species and help select for/ introduce individuals that
are more likely to survive. These efforts can work in parallel to traditional
conservation to improve the outlook species in a variety of ecosystems.
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