What do we call a small geographic area where significant numbers of habitats and species are in immediate danger of extinction?

The term used to describe a small geographic area where a significant number of habitats and species are in immediate danger of extinction is referred to as an Ecological Hot Spot. This concept is crucial in conservation biology, as these areas typically have high levels of biodiversity and endemic species, making them priorities for conservation efforts.

Ecological Hot Spots are defined using specific criteria, including the requirement that they contain at least 1,500 species of vascular plants as endemics and have lost a significant portion of their original habitat—usually at least 70%. The rationale for focusing on these regions is that protecting and restoring them can lead to a substantial impact on global biodiversity conservation.

In contrast, the other terms like Conservation Area, Biodiversity Reserve, and Endangered Zone, while related to environmental protection and biodiversity, do not convey the same urgency or specific criteria associated with Ecological Hot Spots. Conservation Areas can be broader and may not represent areas under immediate threat, while Biodiversity Reserves may encompass various protections and not necessarily indicate high extinction risks. An Endangered Zone is less commonly used in scientific discussions and lacks the specific criteria that define an Ecological Hot Spot.