Which of the following groups of organisms is typically at greater risk of becoming endangered?

Specialized species are often at greater risk of becoming endangered due to their specific habitat requirements and narrow ecological niches. These organisms have adaptations that allow them to thrive in particular environments or under specific conditions, making them more vulnerable to changes in their habitat. For instance, if environmental conditions change due to climate change, habitat destruction, pollution, or invasive species, specialized species may not be able to adapt or relocate to more suitable environments as easily as more generalized species can.

In contrast, common species typically have broader ecological tolerances and can thrive in a variety of conditions, making them less susceptible to extinction. Highly mobile species, such as migratory birds or wide-ranging mammals, can often find new habitats or food sources if their current ones become compromised. Urban-adapted species have also shown resilience, as they can exploit human-altered environments and often increase in number despite the challenges posed by urbanization. Thus, the unique vulnerabilities faced by specialized species make them particularly at risk for endangerment.