What are the potential consequences of Arctic ice melt on biodiversity and ecosystems? How might these changes impact global ecological balance?

According to IPCC, the Arctic is warming 2-4 times faster than the rest of the world, leading to receding glaciers and rising sea level. Consequences of Arctic Ice Melt on Biodiversity: 1) Increase of sea level => harm to estuarine ecosystem i.e submergence of wetlands, swamps etc => habitat loss. 2) Concentration and capitalisation of species => poleward movement of fauna. 3) Querying of the Arctic due to small wildfowl and increase biomass productivity. 4) Changes in temperature and salinity due to slowing of Atlantic meridional

circulation => collapse of marine ecosystem. 5) Rising sea levels can cause coral death => loss of fishery habitats. Impact on Global Ecosystem Balance: 1) Intensification of the carbon cycle due to release of CO, methane hydrates due to melting of oxysphere. 2) Emergence of invasive alien species due to abrupt patterns of migration. 3) Changes in hydrological cycle due to salinity and temperature variation. 4) Loosening and absorption of food webs due to phytoplankton death => ocean acidification. Therefore, the Biodiversity beyond Natural Jurisdition treaty should be implemented to achieve the 30x30 goals and protect the marine and terrestrial ecosystem.