Biodiversity in the Klamath Region

Unique Species

One reason scientists study an area is to protect rare and exceptional species and their habitats. The Klamath Region is rich in species that are rare or unique to this area and scientists are trying to identify Bald Eagle

and monitor these unique species to figure out ways to protect them. Rare species are species that have small populations and can be of concern for extinction. The numerous unique species found in the Klamath Region add to the diversity found in the area. Endemic species and threatened or endangered species are just two examples of unique species that are the focus of conservation efforts in the area.

The Klamath is rich in endemics with around 281 plants and animals specific to this region. So where do endemics usually occur and what makes them endemics? Endemics often occur in habitats that are too harsh for most plants or animals to live in. Specifically for plants, harsh environments may include soils that have toxic minerals and lack proper nutrients, habitats that have extreme weather, or landscapes with rocks that are steep and exposed. Endemic species have adapted to the harsh environment by mechanisms such as: having short growing periods, obtaining nutrients from other sources, growing slowly, or being small in size. These species have adapted so well to their unique environment that if you move them to a new area, or their habitat changes, they cannot compete with other species and might go extinct.

Anyone who lives in the Pacific Northwest has probably heard of the Northern Spotted Owl or the Bald Eagle. Both birds are beautiful, charismatic, and federally threatened or endangered. Other species might not be federally listed in the Endangered Species Act (ESA), but are considered sensitive species

within the state of Oregon or California. Species may be classified as ‘sensitive species’ because their habitat is threatened, numbers of populations might be low, or they could be vulnerable to pollution or non-native species. Endangered species are not restricted to megafauna which often gain the attention and sympathy of the public. The red, vibrant western lily as well as the yellow and white beach layia are both federally endangered plants found within the Klamath Region. The habitat specific California red-legged frog and the Modoc sucker are threatened in their range in California. These species are already in decline and once they are gone, they are gone forever. Protecting the habitats of these unique species is just one example of how we can ensure the continued existence of biodiversity.

Learn more about endemic and endangered/threatened species by clicking on the links below:

An Outreach and Education Project made possible by the National Park Service, Klamath Network Inventory and Monitoring and Southern Oregon University