What is an endangered species?

An endangered species is defined as a plant or animal that is in danger of extinction. This designation highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect these organisms and their habitats. When a species is classified as endangered, it indicates that its population has declined to a critical level due to various factors such as habitat loss, overexploitation, disease, or environmental changes. Conservation efforts often focus on preventing further decline and promoting recovery for these vulnerable populations.

The other choices do not fully capture the essence of what makes a species endangered. For instance, while a plant or animal that may not be harvested relates to conservation, it does not specifically denote the risk of extinction. In contrast, a species categorized as having a severely damaged habitat or at risk but not yet endangered does not necessarily mean it is on the brink of extinction. The critical factor distinguishing endangered species is the immediate threat of extinction, making the identification and protection of these species vital for biodiversity conservation efforts.