AP Environmental Science 9.8 - Endangered Species

Meaning

Endangered Species: species of all types that are at high risk for extinction due to low rate of evolution, natural selection, or adaptation

Risk Factors

• K-selected Species
    * Not adapted to unstable environmental changes
    * Lower population growth rate
    * Fewer larger offspring
    * Later reproductive stage
• Too Specialized
    * Specific habitat, climate zone, biome (latitude)
    * Specific food source
• Endemic
    * Diseases that are particularly found in a defined region within a specific plant or animal species

Why are Species Becoming Endangered?

HIPPCO

• Habitat Destruction
• Invasive Species
• Population Size (increasing human population)
• Pollution
• Climate Change
• Overexploitation (hunting, fishing)

Importance of Endangered Species

• Add to biodiversity
• Key species in their respective food webs
• May be an indicator species
• Community keystone or foundational species

How to Save Endangered Species

• Habitat protection - preservations
• Legislation and enforcement
• Sanctioned breeding programs (captive breeding)
• Education and knowledge