As global temperatures rise, warm seasons lengthen.Flowering dates for some flowers are now about 10 days earlier than in the recent past.For pollination to occur, pollinators depend on flowers to bloom at specific times.Pollinators also alter their seasons-for example, insects emerge earlier.But these alterations do not necessarily coincide with changes in flowering.What is the most likely near-term consequence of these mismatches in flowering and pollinator readiness?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mismatches in flowering and pollinator readiness may result in less effective pollination for some species. If certain flowers are not pollinated during their brief blooming period, they may not produce seeds and may eventually decline in population. This can also affect the animals that depend on these plants for food or habitat. While extinction of plants or pollinators is not immediate, the long-term consequences of disrupted pollination can be significant.

As Global Temperatures Rise, Warm Seasons Lengthen