Terrestrial Coastal Ecosystems in Germany and Climate Change

Climate change poses a severe threat to mankind, particularly at coasts with low elevation gradients, such as the German North and Baltic Sea. This book focuses on the coastal terrestrial ecosystems of the German North and Baltic Sea and explores the reactions of plants and animals to future temperature and sea level increase. The combination of field and experimental studies is unique for Europe and provides valuable insights into the processes at coastal ecosystems.

Format: Hardback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 04 March 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Climate change poses a significant threat to humanity worldwide, presenting a multifaceted danger. Alongside the rise in temperature, the sea level is escalating, leading to widespread flooding in coastal regions. This phenomenon is already evident today, particularly along the low-elevation gradients of coastlines, such as those found along the German coasts of the North and Baltic Sea. The consequences of this change will be profound, particularly affecting coastal communities and the unique coastal ecosystems that harbor numerous endangered plant and animal species.

This book specifically delves into the coastal terrestrial ecosystems of the German North and Baltic Sea. It explores the responses of plants and animals, including spiders, carabid beetles, bees, and nematodes, to the anticipated increase in temperature and sea level. What sets this research apart is its unique combination of field studies and experimental investigations, which are rare in Europe and many parts of the world. The book not only examines the current elevation gradients and climatic and saline gradients from west to east but also documents historical changes to understand the processes that have shaped coastal ecosystems in the past.

In contrast to many books that focus on marine processes with similar backgrounds, this book emphasizes the study of terrestrial coastal ecosystems, which have been relatively overlooked and, in particular, have never been examined from this specific perspective. By examining the interactions between plants, animals, and their environment, this book sheds light on the vulnerability of coastal ecosystems and the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect these valuable habitats.

Weight: 904g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031125386
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023