WWF expert Stegan Ziegler said the effects of global warming manifested themselves three times more strongly in the Alps than elsewhere.

As a result, freshwater salmon, snapper and other types of fish found could become extinct in the mountain region, along with snow rabbits, black grouse and several plant species.

"Holidaymakers are not yet seeing the impact of climate change in the Alps, but this will change when pine forests start to disappear," Ziegler said.

He predicted that certain animals and plant species will disappear from lower mountain regions as they move to higher, cooler altitudes in a bid to survive.

The vegetation belt is likely to move 400 to 700 metres (1,300 to 2,300 feet) up the Alps, he said.

"All kinds of fauna and flora that need cooler temperatures will be competing for living space in an ever shrinking environment in which they can survive."

Ziegler said humans had to help nature to weather the impact of climate change by creating protected spaces for wildlife higher up in the Alps and planting more indigenous vegetation that can withstand warmer temperatures.

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