INCREASE IN TEMPERATURE THREATENS ZINOS PETREL IN MADEIRA

The increase in the production of gases means a heater effect to the atmosphere, provoking a negative impact on the high habitats. Due to this situation, we can foresee that some of these habitats and – consequently – some of species living there may be extinguished until the end of the century.

According to the study made to evaluate the susceptibility of the Archipelago of Madeira to the Global Climate Alterations, in the context of CLIMAAT II, financed by the Union Community program INTERREG III-B, the Zinos Petrel, Pterodroma Madeira, is within this conjuncture the more menaced sea bird . The climate alterations which create a negative effect on the flora and fauna species associated to the high habitats are the same that, by contrast, are favourable to the establishment of the vegetal group of plants forming Laurissilva, in areas which before were covered with high mountain flora. This study, organized by the Regional Environment Bureau, it is important for us to understand the impact which the progressive increase on the annual average temperature may have in regions such vulnerable as the Archipelago of Madeira, as well as to direct the plans undertaken for the preservation of the affected species.


Source: Diário de Notícias da Madeira – Funchal, November 20, 2006