Climate Effect on Plants and Animals:
The climate in New York significantly impacts plants and animals. Since the temperature varies throughout the year some plants are able to adapt and withstand the cold temperatures but there are others who live better in the warmer weather. Plants also have to adapt to the amount of sunlight they are able to receive during the day throughout the year. (14)
The climate effects on animals in New York can influence their behavior. Certain mammals may migrate to warmer regions during the winter so they are able to escape cold temperatures. There are also animals that go into hibernation to escape the cold. Some animals are able to adapt to the changes in climate better than others. They could also experience challenges as the temperatures and weather patterns shift. (15)
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Ecoregion and Biomes:
New York is a temperature deciduous forest biome. This means that since the seasons change it causes vegetation to lose leaves in colder seasons and grow again in the spring. In the Northeastern Coastal Zone of New York, there are plants like salt marsh grasses and shrubs. There are animals like the fiddler crab and shorebirds. In the Appalachian Mixed Mesophytic Forest, there are plants like the oak tree, hickory, and maple. They adapt to the climate by shedding their leaves and changing color. (16)
Topograph influence:
The physical features of land play a crucial role in shaping the distribution of plants and animals in New York including mountains, valleys, rivers, plains, and distinct habitats to support a variety of species. Elevation also plays a role in mountainous regions that have distinct temperatures that support diverse ecosystems at different altitudes. Humans do alter the landscapes that impact both native and non-native species. The topography in New York does create a dynamic and intricate tapestry of habitats that play a role in sustaining the state's rich biodiversity. (17)
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Vegetation and Wildlife:
The soil composition is a critical determinant that affects the types of plants that can thrive in different regions. The diverse geology in New York contributes to variations in soil characteristics including sedimentary rocks, metamorphic formations, and igneous intrusions. Topography like mountains, valleys, and bodies of water create habitats and are influenced by the types of vegetation. (39)
Environmental Threats:
New York faces many environmental threats that impact its ecosystem, biodiversity, and the environment's overall health. Some environmental threats include urbanization and habitat loss, air pollution, water pollution, invasive species, climate change, overexploitation of resources, extreme weather events, waste management, and loss of biodiversity. To be able to address these environmental threats it involves a combination of conservation initiatives, pollution control measures, sustainable resource management, and public awareness campaigns. The government, communities, and environmental organizations have to collaborate and work together to mitigate these challenges to promote a more sustainable and resilient environment in New York. (28)
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