Iowa Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

What defines an "endangered species"?

1. A species that is thriving in its environment

2. A species in danger of extinction

3. A species that is abundant

4. A species that is only found in captivity

The correct answer is: A species in danger of extinction

An endangered species is defined as a species that is at risk of extinction and faces significant threats to its survival in the wild. This classification is usually based on factors such as habitat loss, pollution, overhunting, climate change, and other human-induced changes that disrupt the natural environment. Recognizing a species as endangered highlights the urgency of conservation efforts to protect its remaining populations and habitats. The other options describe conditions that are contrary to the definition of an endangered species. A species that is thriving implies it is healthy and secure in its environment, which does not reflect the precarious status of an endangered species. Likewise, a species that is abundant would be considered common and not in danger of extinction. A species found only in captivity suggests that it has been removed from its natural habitat and may be at risk due to its lack of wild populations, but this alone does not necessarily qualify it as endangered unless the wild populations are also threatened or extinct.