Effects of Artificial Light on Ecological Processes of Wildlife
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Artificial light at night (ALAN) has become a widespread anthropogenic disturbance that changes the natural alternation of light and darkness across human-dominated landscapes. This article mainly shows how artificial nighttime-light influences wildlife from individual organisms to communities and whole ecosystem. The discussion first distinguishes light pollution as an "additive disturbance" that effects sensory and temporal environments rather than removing habitat directly. Then considers behavioral and physiological pathways, which include: altered activity schedules, disrupted circadian rhythms, reduced dark periods, sleep disturbance, and changes in melatonin-related recovery. The analysis considers how these individual responses have connection with predator-prey relationships, insect-mediated pollination, temporal niche partitioning, interspecific competition, and food-web structure. As for responses, it shown to differ among taxonomic groups because species vary in sensory systems, activity patterns, and tolerance to light intensity and spectral composition. This article also identifies some major research needs, include particularly long-term field monitoring and empirical evaluation of mitigation strategies. Overall, artificial nighttime illumination can reorganize ecological processes across multiple biological levels, and reducing unnecessary illumination, controlling intensity and spectrum, and protecting dark spaces are important directions for limiting ecological disruption.
Author: Ruoyu Sun
Language: English
Subfield: Global and Planetary Change
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7225747935
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