The sloth populations in Central and South America are facing a critical threat from climate change, as revealed by new research published in the journal PeerJ. The study suggests that the rising temperatures on Earth could significantly impact the health and long-term survival of these species from a metabolic perspective.
Zoologist Rebecca Cliffe, the founder of The Sloth Conservation Foundation, led the investigation focusing on two-fingered sloths (Choloepus hoffmanni). By analyzing the sloths’ oxygen consumption and core body temperatures under projected warming scenarios for their habitats by 2100, the researchers found that the consequences could be severe.
[Related: Sloth schedules are surprisingly flexible.]
Sloths, with their slow metabolism and limited ability to regulate body temperature, face challenges in adapting to temperature increases. High-altitude sloths are particularly at risk due to a rise in resting metabolic rate and the lack of cooler habitats. On the other hand, low-altitude sloths may struggle with metabolic depression, limiting their ability to cope with warmer temperatures.
Apart from metabolic concerns, sloths also have a slow digestion rate, making it difficult for them to adjust their food intake with changing temperatures and metabolic rates. The delicate balance between metabolism, digestion, and habitat conditions makes sloths highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
While the study acknowledges its simplistic climate model, it warns that even a small increase in ambient temperature could push high-altitude sloths to a point where their energy consumption exceeds their energy budget. This highlights the urgent need to address the impact of climate change on these unique and slow-moving creatures.
