1.
rare species; threatened species
A species of plant or animal whose population is small enough to be considered uncommon or at risk. Used in biology, conservation, and environmental policy.
この鳥は希少種に指定されている。
This bird is designated as a rare species.
屋久島には多くの希少種が生息している。
Many rare species inhabit Yakushima.
気候変動によって、希少種の生息地が急速に失われつつある。
Due to climate change, the habitats of rare species are rapidly being lost.
Compound of 希少 (rare, scarce) + 種 (species).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 希少種に指定する: to designate as a rare species
- 希少種保護: protection of rare species
- 希少種の生息地: habitat of a rare species
- 希少種を守る: to protect rare species
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 絶滅危惧種: endangered species — stronger and more specific; an officially-listed category at high extinction risk
- 天然記念物: natural monument — legal designation in Japan that often overlaps with rare species
- 外来種: non-native/invasive species — often contrasted with native rare species in conservation discussions