---
title: "Species Diversity — AP Enviro Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Species diversity is the variety and relative abundance of species in an ecosystem, and it's a top predictor of how well that ecosystem bounces back from disruptions."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-enviro/key-terms/species-diversity"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Environmental Science"
---

# Species Diversity — AP Enviro Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Species diversity refers to the variety of different species present in a particular ecosystem or on Earth. It includes both the number of species present and their relative abundance.

## Related Study Guides

- [1.8 Primary Productivity](/ap-enviro/unit-1/primary-productivity/study-guide/qZAeWALqqSWPTQRTlPLB)

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Biodiversity](/ap-enviro/key-terms/biodiversity): A broader term encompassing all levels of biological variation, including genetic diversity within species and ecosystem diversity.
- [Endangered Species](/ap-enviro/key-terms/endangered-species): Species at risk of extinction due to factors such as habitat loss or overhunting.
- Keystone Species: A species whose presence is crucial for maintaining an ecosystem's structure and function.