Polar ecology

Polar ecology studies the interactions of living organisms—plants, animals, microbes—with their cold, extreme environments in the Arctic and Antarctic. These ecosystems are characterized by harsh conditions, limited food sources, and seasonal changes like long periods of darkness or daylight. Despite this, diverse species survive and adapt through special physical and behavioral traits. Understanding polar ecology helps us learn how climate change impacts these delicate habitats, affecting global climate patterns and sea levels. It emphasizes the importance of conserving these fragile ecosystems, which play a crucial role in Earth's overall environmental health.