Biodiversity and Species Analysis

Primary Succession

Succession that needs pioneer species like lichens or mosses to create soil.

Secondary Succession

Succession that does not need pioneer species since the soil is already present.

Keystone Species

A species that helps define an entire ecosystem and holds it together; without it, the ecosystem could collapse.

Negative Effects of Removing Keystone Species

When keystone species are removed, the biodiversity of the ecosystem may fall.

Native Species

Species that are naturally found in a specific ecosystem without human influence.

Invasive Species

Nonnative organisms that cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health; they often reproduce quickly and have no natural predators.

Indicator Species

An organism whose presence, absence, or abundance reflects a specific environmental condition.

Endemic Species

Species that are found only in a specific geographic area.

Endangered Species

Species that are vulnerable to becoming extinct in the near future.

Extinct Species

Species for which no individuals are left alive in the world.

Difference between Endangered and Extinct

Endangered species still have some individuals alive, while extinct species no longer exist.