Do you know the difference between native and endemic species?
Mr. John Sherwin Felix from Lokalpedia laid out the key differences during the Dunong Online Lecture Lakbay Lasa: Exploring Philippine Food Heritage and Food Biodiversity.
Species that naturally occur in an area without human intervention. Synonymous with indigenous.
Native species are well-adapted to the local climate, soil, and environmental conditions. They play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance and stability of their natural habitats.
Examples of Philippine Native Species are
- Bugnay
- Ibuli
- Tibig
Endemic species are native and restricted to a specific geographic area or region and is not naturally found anywhere else in the world.
Take note that “endemic” is not interchangeable with “native”.
Not all native species are endemic, but all endemic species are native.
Examples of Endemic Species
- Lubi-Lubi
- Katmon
- Taklong
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