Definition

Noun: A species whose numbers are so small that the species is at risk of extinction.

Usage

The term "endangered species" is used to describe a specific type of plant or animal population that is in immediate danger of disappearing completely. It is a formal classification in biology and environmental law.

Examples

• The giant panda is a well-known endangered species.
• Conservation efforts are focused on protecting endangered species and their habitats.
• The international treaty lists hundreds of endangered species to regulate trade.

Advanced Usage

• "To be listed as an endangered species": To be officially classified and recognized as being at risk of extinction by a governing body (e.g., the IUCN Red List or the U.S. Endangered Species Act).
  • The monarch butterfly may soon be listed as an endangered species.
• "Critically endangered species": A more severe sub-category for species facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild.
  • The Javan rhino is a critically endangered species.

Variants and Related Words

• Endangerment (noun): The condition of being threatened with extinction.
  • The primary cause of the species' endangerment is habitat loss.
• Endangered (adjective): Describing a species in danger of extinction. (Note: This is the adjective form of the target noun phrase).
  • The endangered tiger population is slowly recovering.

Synonyms

• Threatened species: A broader category that includes species likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future.
• At-risk species: A less formal term with a similar meaning.

Related Phrases

• "Protection of endangered species": Refers to legal and conservation actions taken to save these species.
  • The law focuses on the protection of endangered species.
• "Endangered Species Act": A specific law (notably in the United States) designed to protect critically imperiled species.
  • The bald eagle was saved by the Endangered Species Act.

Noun

1. a species whose numbers are so small that the species is at risk of extinction