What does endemism mean in biogeography?

• A. A species restricted to a geographic area.
• B. A species with wide distribution.
• C. A species that migrates seasonally.
• D. A species that is introduced to new regions.

Answer: (A)

Endemism in biogeography means a species is native to and found only within a particular geographic area. This restricted distribution sets endemic species apart from those with broad, widespread ranges. The idea helps explain why some plants and animals are unique to islands, mountain tops, or specific regions, often evolving in place due to isolation. Endemic species are especially vulnerable to habitat loss because their entire existence depends on that limited area. The other ideas describe different patterns—being widely distributed, migrating seasonally, or being introduced to new regions—none of which capture the sense of being restricted to a single place.