Disrupted seasonal biology impacts health, food security and ecosystems.

ABSTRACT: The rhythm of life on earth is shaped by seasonal changes in the environment. Plants and animals show profound annual cycles in physiology, health, morphology, behaviour and demography in response to environmental cues. Seasonal biology impacts ecosystems and agriculture, with consequences for humans and biodiversity. Human populations show robust annual rhythms in health and well-being, and the birth month can have lasting effects that persist throughout life. This review emphasizes the need for a better understanding of seasonal biology against the backdrop of its rapidly progressing disruption through climate change, human lifestyles and other anthropogenic impact. Climate change is modifying annual rhythms to which numerous organisms have adapted, with potential consequences for indust

SUBMITTER: Stevenson TJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4633868 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature