What is a major environmental issue caused by climate change in aquatic systems?

A major environmental issue caused by climate change in aquatic systems is the alteration of water temperatures and changes in species distribution. As global temperatures rise due to climate change, the temperatures of aquatic environments such as rivers, lakes, and oceans also increase. This shift in temperature can lead to significant impacts on aquatic ecosystems.

Warmer water temperatures can affect the metabolic rates of aquatic organisms, influencing their growth, reproduction, and survival. For instance, species that are adapted to cooler environments may struggle to survive as their habitats warm, leading to a displacement of species. This can result in the introduction of new species that may outcompete native species, disrupt existing food webs, and lead to a loss of biodiversity.

Additionally, changes in temperature can also affect the timing of biological processes such as breeding and migration, further compounding the effects on species distribution and ecosystem health. Overall, these temperature shifts and the resulting changes in species distribution are critical issues stemming from climate change that challenge the stability of aquatic ecosystems.