Today, we're going to discuss the impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems. One key point is that rising sea levels lead to saltwater intrusion, which damages freshwater wetlands. This affects the habitat of many bird species. Additionally, warmer ocean temperatures cause coral bleaching, reducing biodiversity. However, a less obvious effect is the increase in storm intensity, which erodes beaches and destroys nesting sites for sea turtles. Interestingly, some mangrove forests are adapting by migrating inland, but this is often blocked by human development. Overall, the most immediate threat is not temperature rise itself, but the rate of change, which outpaces species' ability to adapt.
❓ According to the lecture, what is the most immediate threat to coastal ecosystems?
A. A. The rise in ocean temperatures causing coral bleaching.
B. B. The increase in storm intensity eroding beaches.
C. C. The rapid rate of environmental change exceeding species' adaptation.
D. D. The saltwater intrusion damaging freshwater wetlands.
✅ 正确答案
C. The rapid rate of environmental change exceeding species' adaptation.