nativespecies

Native species are organisms that occur naturally in a given region or ecosystem and have established populations through natural processes rather than deliberate introduction by humans. They form the native biota of an area and contribute to its ecological balance.

The term native should not be confused with endemic, which refers to species found only in a particular area, often with restricted distribution, whereas indigenous or native can describe broader regional presence.

Native species perform ecological roles such as providing habitat or food, pollination, seed dispersal, predation that controls pests, and nutrient cycling. They have coevolved with local climate and other species, contributing to ecosystem resilience when native diversity is high.

Threats to native species include habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species that outcompete or prey on natives. Conservation efforts emphasize protecting native habitats, managing land use to favor natives, controlling invasive species, and reintroducing native populations where appropriate.

In conservation planning, lists of native species guide monitoring, land management, and environmental impact assessments. Native biodiversity supports ecosystem services, cultural value, and the long-term health of ecosystems.