Could a Fungal Apocalypse Happen? Insights from New Research
The terrifying fungal apocalypse depicted in The Last of Us may feel far-fetched, but research is shedding light on how warming temperatures could indeed make fungal and bacterial infections deadlier. A study from the University of British Columbia (UBC) highlights the impact of climate warming on infections in cold-blooded animals, sparking questions about broader ecological and human health risks.
Key Findings: How Climate Warming Affects Infections
Cold-Blooded Animals in Danger
Cold-blooded creatures like insects, fish, molluscs, and corals are especially vulnerable to warming, as their body temperatures are directly tied to the environment. Researchers Drs. Kayla King and Jingdi (Judy) Li synthesized findings from 60 experimental studies and revealed:
- Bacterial infections: Mortality rates increased as temperatures rose beyond normal environmental levels.
- Fungal infections: Effects were nuanced. Death rates spiked only when temperatures approached fungi’s thermal optimum—the temperature range most conducive to fungal growth. When temperatures exceeded the thermal tolerance of fungi, infected animals saw decreased mortality rates.
Implications for Ecosystems
The study underscores the heightened risks for biodiverse ecosystems like coral reefs and insect populations, which are already grappling with environmental stressors such as habitat loss and pollution. As fungal and bacterial infections become more lethal in warming conditions, the delicate balance of these ecosystems could be disrupted, leading to cascading effects on biodiversity.
Could Humans Be at Risk?
While the study focused on cold-blooded animals, it raises broader questions about how warming could affect warm-blooded animals—including humans. Some fungal pathogens, like Candida auris, have already demonstrated an alarming ability to adapt to higher temperatures, posing potential health risks as they evolve to thrive in human body temperatures.
Dr. Li emphasizes the need for further research into how rising temperatures interact with human immunity and pathogens.
What’s Next?
This study is a call to action for scientists and policymakers:
- Ecosystem Protection: Cold-blooded animals are integral to food chains and ecosystem functions. Preserving their habitats is crucial.
- Disease Preparedness: Monitoring fungal pathogens and understanding their adaptability to warming climates can inform strategies to mitigate risks for both wildlife and humans.
- Global Warming Mitigation: Slowing climate change remains essential to minimizing these emerging threats.
While a Last of Us-style fungal apocalypse may remain a work of fiction, the potential for rising temperatures to amplify the impact of pathogens is very real. Protecting ecosystems and investing in research are vital steps to understanding and mitigating these risks.