Researchers make concerning discovery about hybrid creatures that could emerge from mountains: 'An increasing threat'

New research has found that birds that have adapted to mountainous regions may be at risk amid a shifting climate, but hybridized birds with genes from multiple species could have a better chance of adapting. 

What happened?

A study led by researchers at the Institute of Zoology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and published in the journal Nature Climate Change, analyzed three closely related bird species that live in the Sino-Himalayan mountains, as detailed in an academy report posted by Phys.org.

The researchers ran simulations and found that if these birds mate and produce hybrid offspring, it could reduce their vulnerability to climate change over several generations. This could help them adapt to harsher conditions and future climate shifts.

These bird species began diverging 220,000 years ago, according to the study, and live in distinct niches within the same region. Because of those contrasting environments, they have adapted unique survival mechanisms — yet they are all still under threat.

"Despite these specializations, all three species are projected to face severe climatic challenges, potentially losing 44% to 69% of their suitable habitats," the authors said, per Phys.org, sharing the academy report.

The birds have been mostly geographically isolated, but some contact zones exist that could make hybridization possible. 

Even with their adaptations to their environments and the potential for hybrid species to carry multiple beneficial genetic traits, they are still vulnerable to climate shifts — though hybrid birds are projected as less so than nonhybridized counterparts. 

Why is it concerning?

The rapid warming of the planet is changing human beings, wildlife, and the environment as we know it. This research provides another example of how animals are being forced to adapt to changing conditions. 

Warmer temperatures are melting ice in the Arctic and on mountains, shrinking habitats, and depleting resources for wildlife. 

Animals can change their migration patterns and venture outside their normal regions to search for food and habitable climates, throwing off ecological balance in the process. 

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"Climate change is rapidly driving environmental shifts, posing an increasing threat to global biodiversity," the authors said in the study.

What's being done about it?

It's not a good sign that mountainous birds may have to use hybridization to survive the effects of climate change over the long term, but it's important for researchers to know what's possible in order to save vital ecosystems.

The study urged better preservation of migration corridors and contact zones for these birds, which help to facilitate "interspecific genetic material exchange" for "restoring population fitness."

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