Do you know that more than 1,500 UK native species are under threat of extinction? The Natural Blog by the UK government states that since the 1970s, UK species have declined by around 19%. Moreover, the statistics presented by the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology emphasize a significant decline in flowering plants by 54%. Some of the identified plants under threat are heather, harebell, Alpine lady-fern, and Devil’s-bit scabious. Not just plants, but fauna including turtle dove, water vole, European eel, red squirrel, beaver, and many more are struggling to continue their existence.
Amidst the many drivers that seed those declines and possible extinctions of wildlife, habitat loss accelerated by climate change is a primary concern. More specifically, the destruction and disruption of microhabitats caused by climate extremes pose a significant threat to the valuable flora and fauna in the UK.
What exactly is a “micro habitat”? According to the National Geographic Society, a micro habitat is a small area that differs somehow from the surrounding habitat, and its unique conditions may be home to unique species that may not be found in the larger region. A pond, a tree hole, a wooden stump, a space beneath a stone, and many more areas we see around our surroundings can be recognized as micro habitats.
Generally, micro habitats comprise ecosystem engineers. They can be plants or animals capable of altering the ecosystem on a smaller or larger scale through their activities. For example, benthic worms, ants, and termites can change the soil structure. Beavers help to purify water and increase flood storage.
Micro habitats, along with their unique ecosystem engineers, have a crucial role to play in climate emergencies. They aid in combating extreme weather conditions, including drought, heat waves, storms, and heavy rain, providing consistent grounds for breeding, shelter, and food for numerous floral and faunal species. Micro habitats tend to have a microclimate, which is a bit cooler than the surrounding temperature. It is recorded that tree holes in tropical climate conditions can be around 4°C cooler than their surrounding environment. Thus, micro habitats have the potential to make the severe impacts of climate change less harsh for their inhabitants.
Not only that, but micro habitats also support carbon sequestration through photosynthesis, promoting plant growth. Ponds and wetlands, which are crucial micro habitats, support absorbing and retaining water. Furthermore, the role of micro habitats in coordinating and mediating certain biotic and abiotic ecological interactions is noteworthy. For example, howler monkeys promote the abundance of dung beetles that are important for enhancing nutrient availability.
More importantly, micro habitats have a specific role in generating ecological resilience for climate change through supporting ecosystem services such as pollination, seed dispersion, and nutrient cycling, and also through enhancing biodiversity by supporting a diverse range of species and maintaining ecosystem health and function.
But unfortunately, due to urbanization, agricultural practices, pollution, and climate change itself, most of the ecologically valuable micro habitats have been destroyed in the UK. The loss of green spaces due to the expansion of cities and infrastructure development has led to the fragmentation of habitats.
Intensive farming methods, including the use of pesticides and monocultures, destroy micro habitats by removing hedgerows, draining wetlands, and degrading soil health. The loss of traditional orchards, once common across the UK, exemplifies this trend. These orchards provided rich micro habitats supporting numerous species. Pollution, a widely discussed topic in urbanized areas in the UK, degrades micro habitats, making them uninhabitable for many species.
Various projects and organizations across the UK are working to conserve and restore these vital ecosystems. One recent attempt was the Lizard Peninsula Recovery Project in Cornwall, UK, which focuses on restoring heathlands, coastal grasslands, and wetlands to support local wildlife and enhance ecosystem services. The project involves habitat management, species monitoring, and community engagement to ensure long-term conservation success.
The London Wildlife Trust runs several projects to protect and enhance urban micro habitats. The Camley Street Natural Park in King’s Cross is an urban nature reserve providing habitats for birds, insects, and amphibians. Projects like these highlight the importance of green spaces in cities for biodiversity and climate resilience.
The Orchard Project aims to conserve and restore these important micro habitats. Orchards provide vital resources for pollinators, birds, and small mammals. The project includes surveying orchards, providing management advice, and planting new trees to create resilient habitats.
The Great North Bog initiative aims to restore vast areas of peatland across northern England. Peatlands are exceptional carbon sinks, and their restoration is crucial for climate change mitigation. This project involves rewetting drained bogs, controlling invasive species, and promoting sustainable land use practices.
Individuals can also contribute to the conservation of micro habitats through small, everyday actions. Here are some ways you can make a difference:
Composting: Turn kitchen waste into nutrient-rich compost to support soil health and provide habitat for soil organisms. Composting reduces waste sent to landfills and improves the quality of soil in gardens, making it more hospitable for plants and insects.
Creating Green Spaces: Planting gardens, even in small spaces like balconies or windowsills, can create micro habitats for pollinators and other wildlife. Community gardens and allotments also provide valuable green spaces in urban areas.
Reducing Pesticide Use: Minimize or eliminate the use of chemical pesticides in your garden. Instead, opt for natural alternatives and integrated pest management practices that protect beneficial insects and maintain ecological balance.
Growing Native Plants: Choose native plants for your garden, as they are well adapted to local conditions and provide food and shelter for local wildlife. Native plants support pollinators, birds, and other species that rely on these plants for survival.
Supporting Conservation Efforts: Get involved with local conservation projects and support organizations working to protect micro habitats. Volunteering your time or donating to these causes can make a significant impact.
Micro habitats play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and combating the effects of climate change. By protecting and restoring these small but vital ecosystems, we can support a diverse range of species, promote ecological resilience, and contribute to climate change mitigation efforts.