Ecosystems consist of numerous, interconnected feedback loops involved in regulating the health of that ecosystem. A relatively stable climate is typically the foundation for these feedback loops, allowing them to occur in a predictable manner. Climate change interferes with these loops and can drastically change the relationships between components of an ecosystem.

The mountain pine beetle is an excellent illustration of climate change interfering with a crucial ecosystem feedback loop. Examine the feedback loop shown above. Can you decipher how anthropogenic emissions have disturbed the cycle?