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Biological diversity

Definition(s)

A biodiversity hotspot is a region with significant levels of biodiversity that is threatened with destruction. To qualify as a hotspot, a region must meet two criteria: it must contain at least 1,500 species of vascular plants (> 0.5 percent of the world's total) as endemics, and it must have lost at least 70% of its primary vegetation. These sites support nearly 60% of the world's plant, bird, mammal, reptile, and amphibian species, with a very high share of endemic species. One hotspot can include multiple ecoregions. (drafted/ Source: Conservation International)

Hierarchy

Broader: biodiversity
Related terms:
key biodiversity area
ecologically significant area
biologically significant area
Used for:

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