UTTAR PRADESH JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY

Climate change has emerged as a dominant driver of global biodiversity loss, profoundly altering zoological diversity, species distribution, and ecosystem functioning. Rising temperatures, erratic precipitation, ocean acidification, and habitat fragmentation disrupt physiological processes, migration patterns, and trophic interactions across taxa. This review explores the impact of climate change on zoological diversity and species distribution. Terrestrial, aquatic, and marine ecosystems exhibit varying degrees of vulnerability, with endemic and specialised species facing heightened extinction risks. Polar fauna such as seals and polar bears, tropical primates, coral reef communities, and migratory birds demonstrate clear evidence of climate-induced population decline and range shifts. Evolutionary responses, including genetic adaptation and phenotypic plasticity, are observed in some taxa but remain insufficient to counter rapid environmental changes. Advances in remote sensing, GIS-based species modelling, and molecular techniques such as genomics and environmental DNA (eDNA) have enhanced understanding of climate impacts and enabled predictive biodiversity mapping. Conservation measures encompassing ecosystem-based adaptation, habitat restoration, captive breeding, and wildlife corridor establishment contribute to mitigating biodiversity loss. Policy frameworks under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), IUCN, and IPCC emphasise integrating nature-based solutions with national climate strategies. Despite significant progress, uncertainties in predictive models, data scarcity, and limited integration between ecological and socio-economic systems impede effective conservation planning. Future research must prioritise long-term ecological monitoring, multi-scale data synthesis, and cross-sectoral policy implementation to enhance resilience. Integrating indigenous ecological knowledge with scientific innovations will strengthen adaptation measures and ensure sustainable biodiversity management in the face of accelerating climatic shifts.