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.

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Compare meaning

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

• endangered vs. threatened species

Example Sentences

In a statement, the MPF referred to the release of heavy metals such as mercury into the water, and destruction of crucial habitats for threatened species of dolphins, turtles and aquatic birds.

From Barron's • Feb. 5, 2026

But activities such as grazing and development have degraded so much habitat that the threatened species now occupies only 12% of its historical range, according to a 2023 survey by the U.S.

From Salon • Dec. 4, 2025

He helped draft a 2024 petition urging the federal government to declare the Wilson’s phalarope a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 22, 2025

"Our goal is to deploy the Rhisotope technology at scale to help protect one of Africa's most iconic and threatened species," said Jessica Babich, head of the Rhisotope Project.

From BBC • Aug. 1, 2025

Zoos are conducting similar breeding programs for many other threatened species, including gorillas and rhinos.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond