Symbols of the Arctic, polar bears are among the most emblematic animals of regions covered in ice. Adapted to life and hunting on the ice floe, they depend directly on the environment for food and reproduction.
However, with the advance of climate change, the accelerated melting of ice has considerably reduced its habitat, putting the species in danger. Experts consulted by Metropolises explain that the extinction of polar bears would have almost immediate effects on the functioning of the Arctic ecosystem.
Absence of predator at the top of the chain
Considered the region’s top predators, polar bears play a central role in controlling the populations of other species, including seals. Without natural pressure, the ecological balance would change rapidly.
“The extinction of the polar bear would cause an immediate imbalance in the Arctic ecosystem. As they are the main predators in the region, their absence would directly affect the natural control of other species, notably seals,” explains Professor Igor Zimovski, director of the veterinary clinic at the Uniceplac University Center.
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The coordinator of the biological sciences course at the Catholic University of Brasilia, Morgana Bruno, emphasizes that the impacts would not be limited to a single species.
“The extinction of polar bears would cause a cascading collapse of the Arctic ecosystem, affecting everything from the biology of their prey to the general functioning of the environment where they act as biological regulators,” he explains.
Domino effect on the food chain
In the absence of polar bears, seal populations would tend to grow out of control. This increase would increase pressure on fish and shellfish, the food base of these marine mammals, causing a scarcity of resources and affecting other species that depend on the same ecosystem.
“The bear is the main predator of seals and its absence would lead to uncontrolled growth of these populations, particularly of the ringed seal,” underlines Morgana.
According to her, the imbalance would spread throughout the food chain, also affecting animals which benefit indirectly from the presence of bears. “Arctic foxes and scavenging birds, for example, rely on prey remains left behind by bears to survive harsh winters,” he explains.
Consequences that go beyond the Arctic
The effects of the extinction of polar bears would not be limited to icy regions of the planet. The Arctic plays an important role in regulating global climate, and changes in its ecological balance can have global consequences.
“Changes in the ecological balance of the region can impact ocean currents, climate patterns and marine biodiversity in other parts of the planet,” says Zimovski.
What else can we do?
Despite this worrying scenario, experts believe that it is still possible to reduce the risk of extinction. However, actions must be rapid and globally coordinated.
The main measure is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which are responsible for global warming and melting sea ice.
Additionally, Zimovski highlights the importance of Arctic habitat protection, continued monitoring of polar bear populations, and international agreements aimed at conserving the species. “Without addressing the causes of climate change, any conservation effort will be insufficient,” he concludes.
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