What is an endangered species?

An endangered species is defined specifically as a plant or animal that is in danger of extinction. This designation applies to species whose populations are declining at such a rate that they are at risk of disappearing from the planet altogether. Several factors can lead to a species being classified as endangered, including habitat loss, overfishing, pollution, climate change, and other human activities that threaten their survival.

Understanding the importance of identifying and protecting endangered species is crucial, as these organisms play vital roles in their ecosystems and contribute to biodiversity. Conservation efforts are often targeted at these species to ensure their survival and promote recovery, which can involve habitat preservation, legal protections, and recovery plans.

While the other choices touch on various aspects of species conservation, they do not capture the specific definition of an endangered species. For instance, the concept of species not being harvested or having severely damaged habitats references broader conservation issues but lacks the specificity of imminent extinction associated with the label "endangered." Similarly, species that are "at risk but not yet endangered" may experience a range of threats but do not meet the established criteria to be classified as endangered.