The revelation that ancient predators are adapting to climate shifts has shed light on the impact of warmer temperatures on reptiles. These changes are driving the reptiles’ ability to remain submerged for extended periods, which in turn can affect behaviors such as hunting, swimming, and reproduction. The higher temperatures have been observed to influence the breathing patterns of these creatures, as ectotherms rely on external heat to regulate their body temperature. Biologists caution that if temperatures continue to rise above critical thermal limits, it could result in increased stress and trigger more frequent episodes of heavy breathing, ultimately impacting their normal activities and habits.
Notably, researchers have observed that hotter temperatures have altered the diving behavior of crocodiles. Craig Franklin, a co-author of the study, expressed concern over the fact that hotter crocodiles do not dive for as long as they used to. This change is particularly concerning as crocodiles, being ambush hunters, typically need to wait underwater while holding their breath for potential prey to pass by. The study revealed that nearly a quarter of the animals examined exhibited body temperatures exceeding 34°C, although any potential fatalities linked to the warm weather were not specified.
The study, which monitored the body temperature and diving activity of 203 free-ranging estuarine crocodiles over a span of 15 years, highlighted a correlation between the crocodiles’ body temperature and the rising air temperatures since 2008. This observation reflects the climatic shifts induced by the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle, which influences global weather patterns through phenomena like La Niña and El Niño in the Pacific region.
Historical data from the 1950s onwards, when reliable temperature tracking technology became available, indicates that the warmest years of each decade have coincided with periods dominated by El Niño events, contributing to some of the planet’s highest recorded temperatures. While the study did not specifically investigate whether alligators face similar challenges to crocodiles in adapting to climate changes, biologists emphasize that despite both being reptiles, there are notable differences between the two species. Alligators, for instance, possess a broad, U-shaped snout, while crocodiles feature a narrower, V-shaped snout.
Government estimates suggest that Australia is home to over 100,000 saltwater crocodiles in the wild, whereas alligators are not native to the continent and are considered an invasive species. The findings of the study have sparked discussions on the possible impacts of climate change on these apex predators and the measures needed to ensure their survival in a changing environment.
Reference:
Crocodiles may be forced to change ways due to climate change, researchers find.
