Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Specialist species are organisms that have specific requirements and can only survive in a narrow range of environmental conditions or by consuming specific types of food.
A keystone species is a plant or animal that plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance and diversity of an ecosystem.
Endangered species: Endangered species are organisms that are at risk of becoming extinct due to various factors such as habitat loss, pollution, or overhunting.
A niche refers to the specific role or position an organism occupies within its ecosystem, including its interactions with other organisms and its use of resources.