Fill in the blanks in each question. Organisms that are found only in a particular area are called _____ .

Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of life on Earth, encapsulating the different species of plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, the genes they contain, and the ecosystems they form. It is often understood as the measure of the health of biological systems to indicate the degree of nature's variety.

An example connecting 'endemic species' to biodiversity could be the unique flora and fauna found on islands such as the Galápagos or Madagascar. These islands have high levels of endemic species which contribute significantly to global biodiversity. However, since endemic species are confined to specific regions, they can be particularly vulnerable to changes in their environment, whether through natural fluctuations or human impact. Conservation efforts are vital in protecting these unique species and maintaining biodiversity.

Geographical distribution pertains to how species are spatially spread out across the Earth. When species are described as 'endemic', their geographical distribution is quite limited. A restricted distribution may occur due to historical factors like continental drift or current barriers like rivers or mountain ranges that prevent the spread of species.

For instance, the geographical distribution of a species could be narrowed to a single mountain range where it has evolved specific adaptations. This localized distribution means that environmental changes, habitat destruction, or invasive species can have dramatic impacts on endemic species populations, possibly leading to their endangerment or extinction.

The habitat of a species is the natural environment in which it lives and grows. It includes physical factors such as soil, moisture, range of temperature, and availability of light, as well as biotic factors such as the presence of other species with which it interacts.

Endemic species have habitats that are usually very specialized and unique to the region they occupy. This specialization means that these species often have very specific requirements for their survival, making them sensitive to environmental disruptions. Securing these habitats is often a key aspect of conservation strategies, ensuring that endemic species have the necessary conditions to thrive and continue contributing to their ecosystem's complexity, resilience, and overall biodiversity.