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
Species richness refers to the number of different species present in a particular area or ecosystem. It provides information about biodiversity and can indicate the health and stability of an ecosystem.
Related terms
Biodiversity hotspot: A region with exceptionally high species richness and a high level of endemism.
Species evenness: The relative abundance of different species within a community or ecosystem.
Ecological niche: The role and position of a species within its environment, including its interactions with other organisms.