Question

Another example is the Ocmulgee Skullcap (Scutellaria ocmulgee), a rare flowering plant found only in central Georgia. It was recently granted federal protection, due to habitat degradation and limited distribution. This plant thrives in moist, shaded hardwood forests and is highly sensitive to changes in land use.


Indicator species


Endangered species


Keystone species


Native species


Endemic species


Threatened species


Invasive species

Answer 1

The Ocmulgee Skullcap (Scutellaria ocmulgee) is best classified as an **endemic species**.

Here's a brief breakdown of the classifications listed:

- **Indicator species**: Organisms whose presence, absence, or abundance reflects a specific environmental condition or ecosystem health.
- **Endangered species**: A species that is at risk of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
- **Keystone species**: A species that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance.
- **Native species**: A species that naturally occurs in a given area without human intervention.
- **Endemic species**: A species that is native to a specific geographic location and is not found naturally anywhere else.
- **Threatened species**: A species that is likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future.
- **Invasive species**: Non-native species that spread widely and cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health.

Since the Ocmulgee Skullcap is found only in central Georgia, it qualifies as endemic to that region. Additionally, its recent federal protection indicates that it is considered endangered or threatened due to its limited distribution and habitat degradation.