Endemic Species

Sample Collection Guide page of a target Impatiens species, © RBG Kew.

"Endemic" comes from the Greek endemos, used in ecology to describe a species (or higher classification) which is exclusive to a discrete geographical area, in contrast to "cosmopolitan".

By definition endemic species are of limited distribution, and are more vulnerable to habitat destruction as a result.  For example in Madagascar, where there is approximately 80% endemism among plant species, extinctions are especially likely given the few localities in which many species occur, the relatively small areas of protected land and the slash-and-burn agricultural practices prevalent in rural areas. 

A target species of Impatiens located in the field, Tanzania.

Endemic plants are therefore the second category of priority species for collection and ex situ conservation by the MSBP.   Partners operate in collaboration with the MSBP Species Targeting Team, who compile floristic data, herbarium specimen images, GIS maps and conservation assessments to produce collection guides for each country.