Polar bears are facing a multitude of challenges as their icy habitats diminish in a world that is rapidly warming. In addition to habitat loss, these majestic creatures are also at risk of increased infections from germs and parasites due to changing environmental conditions. Karyn Rode, a wildlife biologist at the U.S. Geological Survey’s Alaska Science Center in Anchorage, explains how rising temperatures create new opportunities for pathogens to thrive in previously uninhabitable areas.
The impact of these changes on polar bear populations in the Arctic remains largely unknown, despite the region undergoing significant transformations due to climate change. Rode and her team turned to studying polar bear immune systems for valuable insights into this pressing issue. The Chukchi Sea polar bear population was particularly suitable for their research, as these bears have been forced to adapt to dwindling sea ice levels and spend more time on land during summer months.
This shift exposes them to potential sources of pathogens such as human waste and garbage, posing additional risks to their health. Unlike other polar bear populations, the Chukchi bears also venture further south in search of suitable habitats amidst changing environmental conditions.
2024-10-23 13:00:00
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