Researchers at the University of Colorado are examining how climate change is impacting the timing of plant blooms and bee activity on Pikes Peak. They’ve turned to records kept by Frederic and Edith Clements, who meticulously documented the local environment starting in 1923.
In 2019, CU associate professor Julian Resasco and his team began studying the same area. They discovered that wildflowers are blooming nearly two weeks earlier than they did a century ago, while pollinators like honeybees are emerging around 11 days earlier. This misalignment means bees may miss out on critical food sources during peak bloom periods.
Their findings, published in “American Naturalist,” reveal that higher temperatures in spring are triggering these shifts. As temperatures rise, the delicate balance between plants and pollinators could be disrupted, leading to potential biodiversity issues. “If this trend continues, we may see mismatches between pollinators and the flowers they rely on,” says Resasco.
One striking discovery is that the western bumblebee is emerging from winter about 12 days later than it used to. This could leave these bees without access to early-blooming flowers, which are crucial for their survival. However, not all species are facing the same fate. Some birds and flowers may adapt better to these changes, suggesting that there’s still hope for certain ecosystems.
Maintaining natural habitats is key. Resasco emphasizes, “We have a responsibility to ensure that pollinators don’t disappear.” Protecting these areas allows wildlife to adjust to climate shifts, providing them with a better chance to thrive.
The researchers have made extensive inventories of wildflowers and their pollinators on Pikes Peak, which rises over 14,000 feet. Over the past century, Colorado’s average winter temperature has increased by 3.3 degrees Fahrenheit, affecting the spring snowpack that many plants depend on. The team notes that continued studies will focus on how often pollinators are visiting plants in this changing climate.
It’s important to highlight the differences between regions. For instance, in Illinois, much of the natural habitat has been removed for agriculture. Here in Colorado, though still facing climate stressors, many habitats remain intact, providing a better chance for biodiversity to persist.
Ultimately, the findings urge us to pay closer attention to the intricate relationships within ecosystems. While some species may struggle, others may adapt, and continued research is essential to understand these dynamics better. Protecting and preserving habitats will be crucial as we move forward in combating the effects of climate change.
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bees,climate change,CU Boulder,Pikes Peak
