Summary
Species found naturally only in one specific geographic area, like lemurs in Madagascar.
In depth
Island and mountain-top species are typically endemic. Endemism is a reason for conservation priority, since loss of habitat eliminates the species globally.
Endemism is high on islands and mountains. Narrow range makes species vulnerable. Endemic species contribute to unique biodiversity.
Example: kiwi are endemic to New Zealand.
An endemic species is found naturally in only one defined geographic area, such as an island, mountain or lake, and nowhere else. Endemism is high in isolated places where evolution has proceeded separately: Madagascar (lemurs, about 90 percent of species), Hawaii, the Galapagos, New Zealand (kiwi) and Lake Baikal (the Baikal seal).
Narrow ranges and small populations make endemics vulnerable to habitat loss, invasive predators and climate change, and so they feature heavily on extinction lists. Neoendemics are recently evolved; palaeoendemics are relicts of formerly widespread groups. Endemism is a key criterion for hotspots.
Example: the Hawaiian honeycreepers have evolved into dozens of species but many are now extinct.
Key idea: endemic means unique to one place, not necessarily rare.
Frequently asked questions
What is Endemic Species?
Species found naturally only in one specific geographic area, like lemurs in Madagascar.
Which area of biology covers Endemic Species, and how advanced is it?
Endemic Species is one of the 52 topics in Taxonomy & Biodiversity. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Biodiversity Hotspots, Threats to Biodiversity, Protected Areas.
Can you give an example of Endemic Species?
Hawaii has about 90 percent endemic native flowering plants.
What should I learn before Endemic Species?
Endemic Species is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Taxonomy & Biodiversity that pair well with it include Taxonomy, Binomial Nomenclature, Taxonomic Hierarchy.
What topics are related to Endemic Species?
The closest topics to Endemic Species are Biodiversity Hotspots, Threats to Biodiversity, Protected Areas, Endangered Species. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Endemic Species?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Endemic Species. To practise the whole of Taxonomy & Biodiversity, use the Taxonomy & Biodiversity quiz.
How is Endemic Species different from Biodiversity Hotspots?
Endemic Species: Species found naturally only in one specific geographic area, like lemurs in Madagascar. Biodiversity Hotspots: Regions with exceptional endemic species that are highly threatened by habitat loss. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Endemic Species step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Biodiversity Hotspots and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Taxonomy & Biodiversity quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.