what is hotspot of biodiversity

Biodiversity hotspots are regions that contain a high level of species diversity, many endemic species (species not found anywhere else in the world), and a significant number of threatened species. These regions are crucial for the conservation of biodiversity and are identified as areas of high conservation priority. To qualify as a biodiversity hotspot, a region must meet two strict criteria: it must have at least 1,500 vascular plants as endemics and it must have 30% or less of its original natural vegetation. Currently, there are 36 recognized biodiversity hotspots, which make up less than 3% of Earth's land surface but support more than half of the world's plant species as endemics and nearly 43% of bird, mammal, reptile, and amphibian species as endemics. The United States is home to several biodiversity hotspots, including the Southern Appalachians, California, Florida, and the Sky Islands region.