threatened species

American  

[thret-nd spee-sheez, spee-seez] / ˈθrɛt nd ˈspi ʃiz, ˈspi siz /

noun

Biology, Ecology.

1. a plant or animal species generally perceived as likely, in the near future, to become endangered within all or much of its range.

   The drainage of this wetland promises to leave us with a number of threatened species.

2. a plant or animal species that has been categorized by the IUCN Red List as vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered.

   In evaluating the conservation status of this threatened species, we must follow closely the population growth rate.

---

Compare meaning

How does threatened-species compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• endangered vs. threatened species

Example Sentences

Milne's inspiration for the magical Hundred Acre Wood, is a rare heathland landscape – a habitat rarer than a tropical rainforest – and a Site of Special Scientific Interest that is home to some of Europe's most threatened species.

From BBC

Advocates hope this recognition from SB 765 will raise awareness about the threatened species, which is found in the Central Valley and has experienced large-scale habitat destruction due to urban and agricultural development.

From Los Angeles Times

They say some of the most threatened species - including great white sharks - are being sold in North African fish markets.

From BBC

Currently, 24 threatened species have international legal protection – including mako, angel, threshers and hammerheads.

From BBC

In poorer communities in North Africa, fishers who catch sharks might face the choice of whether to feed their family, or return a threatened species to the ocean.

From BBC