IUCN Least Concern Category: Species Distribution and Statistics
The IUCN Red List serves as a critical barometer for global biodiversity, categorizing species based on their risk of extinction. While the Least Concern designation is not technically considered a red-listed category—meaning the species is not currently threatened—it remains a vital part of the assessment process to track the health of the natural world.
Key Facts
- A total of 15,636 taxa were assigned the Least Concern category in the 2006 IUCN Red List.
- Animal species make up the vast majority of this category with 14,033 entries.
- Humans were formally assessed as a species of Least Concern in 2008.
- No fungi or protista have been classified as Least Concern, though only four species in those kingdoms were evaluated.
Breakdown of Taxa by Group
A taxon (plural: taxa) refers to a group of one or more populations of an organism seen by taxonomists to form a unit. The distribution of Least Concern designations varies significantly across different biological kingdoms.
Animal Species and Subspecies
Animals dominate the Least Concern list, totaling 14,033 species. This figure is inclusive of several undescribed species, such as a specific frog from the genus Philautus. Additionally, 101 animal subspecies are listed under this classification.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Plant Taxa
Plants are also well-represented, with 1,500 total taxa classified as Least Concern. This group is further divided into 1,410 species, 55 subspecies, and 35 varieties.
Comparative Summary of Least Concern Classifications
| Group | Total Taxa | Specific Breakdown |
|---|---|---|
| Animals | 14,134 | 14,033 species, 101 subspecies |
| Plants | 1,500 | 1,410 species, 55 subspecies, 35 varieties |
| Fungi & Protista | 0 | None (only 4 species evaluated) |
| Total | 15,636 | Combined taxa |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "Least Concern" considered a red-listed category?
No, the IUCN does not consider Least Concern to be a red-listed category, as it indicates the species is not currently at risk of extinction.
How many animal species are classified as Least Concern?
According to the 2006 IUCN Red List, there are 14,033 animal species in this category, which includes some undescribed species.
When were humans assessed by the IUCN?
Humans were formally assessed as a species of Least Concern in 2008.
Why are there no fungi or protista in the Least Concern category?
While no fungi or protista hold this classification, it is primarily because only four species within those two kingdoms have been evaluated by the IUCN.
What is the total number of plant taxa listed as Least Concern?
There are 1,500 plant taxa, consisting of 1,410 species, 55 subspecies, and 35 varieties.