How can latitude affect species diversity?

Question

Aubrey Arnold · Accepted Answer

Generally speaking, diversity increases as you move away from the polar regions and towards the equator.

This idea is also referred to as the latitudinal diversity gradient, meaning that as you move from the equator towards the poles, diversity lessens. This pattern is one of the oldest observed in ecology.

Scientists aren't entirely sure why this is the case. Check out this answer on Socratic to read about some of the theories behind this observed pattern.

There's also an excellent link here for further reading.

Julia Acosta · Answer

undefined Latitude can affect species diversity by influencing climate patterns, which in turn impact habitat availability, productivity, and stability. Generally, higher latitudes have lower species diversity compared to lower latitudes due to factors such as temperature variation, seasonality, and habitat complexity. This phenomenon is known as the latitudinal diversity gradient.