What defines an endangered species?

An endangered species is defined as one that is seriously at risk of extinction. This designation typically arises from factors such as habitat loss, environmental changes, overexploitation, or the presence of invasive species. The designation of "endangered" is often determined through scientific assessments and is aimed at prompting conservation efforts to protect the species and its habitat.

The other options reflect different ecological contexts but do not correctly describe an endangered species. For instance, describing a species at risk of being overpopulated mischaracterizes the situation since endangered species are usually at low population levels rather than high ones. Similarly, a species primarily found in one location may be termed endemic, but that does not inherently imply that it is endangered; it could be thriving in its limited range. Lastly, referring to a healthy species in balanced ecosystems describes a species that is thriving, which is the opposite of being endangered. Understanding these distinctions is important in conservation biology and biodiversity management.