This study reveals how light pollution disrupts circadian rhythms in nocturnal animals, suggesting mitigation is critical for biodiversity.
This study examines the impact of artificial night light on nocturnal animals, focusing on the ecological consequences of light pollution. With the growing prevalence of artificial lighting in both urban and rural areas, natural light patterns are disrupted, which can significantly impact the behaviour, physiology, and survival of nocturnal species. These animals, which depend on darkness for activities such as foraging, mating, and avoiding predators, are especially susceptible to the disturbances caused by artificial light. The study explores how light pollution interferes with navigation, disrupts circadian rhythms, and alters predator-prey relationships. It also delves into the broader ecological effects, including shifts in species distribution, reproductive success, and ecosystem health. Moreover, the study reviews recent research on the physiological consequences of artificial light exposure, such as changes in hormone levels and increased stress. The study highlights the need to mitigate light pollution to safeguard biodiversity, particularly for nocturnal species, and advocates for policy reforms and sustainable lighting practices to minimize the ecological impact of artificial lighting.
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Benefit Onu (2025) studied this question.
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