Relevance: GS III (Environment & Ecology) | Source: Down To Earth / The Hindu
1. The Phenomenon: Why is Nature Losing Color?
A growing body of scientific evidence shows that the vibrant colors of animals and ecosystems are fading or changing. This “Ecological Discoloration” is driven by Global Warming and Pollution.
- Why it Matters: Color is not just for beauty; it is a critical survival tool used for Camouflage (hiding), Mating (attracting partners), and Thermoregulation (managing body heat).
2. How Climate Alters Color (Key Findings)
- Insects (Thermoregulation): Dark colors absorb heat, while light colors reflect it. As the planet warms, insects like dragonflies in temperate regions are evolving to become lighter/paler to avoid overheating.
- Birds (Pollution Stress): Heavy metals from pollution bind with melanin (pigment), making birds like Great Tits duller. Additionally, heat stress reduces their ability to produce the bright colors needed to attract mates.
- Greener Oceans: Warmer waters are altering Phytoplankton communities, causing over 56% of the world’s oceans to turn greener, signaling a disruption in the marine food web.
3. The “Camouflage Mismatch”
Climate change is disrupting the timing of seasonal color changes.
- The Trap: Animals like the Snowshoe Hare turn white in winter to blend with snow. With global warming causing earlier snowmelt, these white animals are left exposed against dark, brown mud, making them easy targets for predators.
UPSC Value Box
| Concept / Rule | Relevance for Prelims |
| Gloger’s Rule | An ecological rule stating that warm-blooded animals tend to be darker in humid/warm regions (to protect against UV rays and bacteria) and lighter in cool/arid regions. |
| Structural vs. Pigmentary Color | Pigmentary: Created by chemicals/diet (e.g., Flamingos turn pink from eating shrimp). Structural: Created by the physical shape of surface structures reflecting light (e.g., Peacock feathers). |
Q. With reference to the impact of climate change on biodiversity, the term “Camouflage Mismatch” best describes which of the following phenomena?
- The inability of invasive species to adapt their skin color to new environments.
- The loss of vibrant colors in coral reefs due to ocean acidification.
- The situation where an animal’s seasonal color change no longer matches its background due to altered environmental conditions like early snowmelt.
- The darkening of moth populations in industrial areas to blend in with soot-covered trees.
Correct Answer: (3)
Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!
Start Yours at Ajmal IAS – with Mentorship StrategyDisciplineClarityResults that Drives Success
Your dream deserves this moment — begin it here.
