Endemism and its Types
Endemism is a phenomenon in which a particular species thrives in a very restricted habitat only. These species are called endemic species. Endemism can be categorised based on geographical location or genetics. The different types are given below:
|
Type of Endemism |
Definition |
Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Global Endemism | Species found exclusively in a specific geographic region and nowhere else. | Kakapo parrot (New Zealand), Lemurs (Madagascar) |
| Regional or Continental Endemism | Species restricted to a particular continent or large geographic region. | Kangaroo (Australia), Manatee (Amazon Basin) |
| Island Endemism | Species unique to a specific island or group of islands. | Galápagos Giant Tortoise, Komodo Dragon (Indonesia) |
| Habitat Endemism | Species limited to specific types of habitats within a larger region. | Orchids in cloud forests |
| Altitudinal Endemism | Species restricted to specific altitudinal ranges on mountains. | Pika (alpine regions), Snow Leopard (Himalayas) |
| Microendemism | Extremely localized endemism, species found in a small, specific area. | Endemic cave species, species on a small island |
| Paleoendemism | Species once widespread but now restricted due to historical or geological changes. | Remnants of past ecosystems |
| Neoendemism | Species that have recently evolved and are currently restricted to a specific area. | Recently evolved species with restricted distribution |
| Temporal Endemism | Species present in a specific region during a particular time period. | Species linked to climatic changes over time |
| Aquatic Endemism | Species exclusive to specific water bodies like lakes, rivers, or ponds. | Baikal Seal (Lake Baikal), Cichlid fish in African rift lakes |
Endemic Species – Characteristics, Types and Examples
Species that are exclusive to one area and not found anywhere else in the world are known as endemic species. As an illustration, Polar bears are unique to polar regions and are not found anywhere else in the globe. When they were in captivity, people introduced them, which is why they have occasionally been seen outside of their native habitat. Some marsupials are unique to Australia and the islands that surround it. One such animal that was native to Australia, Tasmania, and New Guinea is the Tasmanian Tiger. It is, however, extinct now.
Endemic species are highly threatened and are in great danger of extinction due to natural or man-made causes. Climate change, Poaching, habitat change, and invasive species are some of the major reasons for the extinction of such species. A few examples of Endemic species are Polar Bears, Lemur, and Panda.
Table of Content
- What is an Endemic Species?
- Characteristics of Endemic Species
- Endemism and its Types
- Examples of Endemic Species (India)
- Examples of Endemic Species (World)
- Factors Affecting Endemic Species