Lists of IUCN Red List least concern species facts for kids

The IUCN keeps track of how many plants and animals are doing well or are in danger. As of July 2021, they listed 14,033 types of animals and 6,635 types of plants as "least concern." This means these species are not currently at risk of disappearing. The IUCN hasn't yet checked other groups of living things, like fungi or algae, for this status.

What is a Least Concern Species?

The term "least concern" is used by the IUCN. They have a special list called the IUCN Red List. This list tells us if a plant or animal species is safe or in danger. If a species is "least concern," it means there are lots of them. Their numbers are stable, and they are not likely to become extinct soon.

How Species Get on the List

Scientists carefully study different species. They look at how many there are and where they live. They also check if their homes are safe. If a species has a large and healthy population, it might be listed as "least concern." This category is the lowest level of concern on the Red List.

Animals: Thriving Species

Many different kinds of animals are doing well. The IUCN Red List includes over 14,000 animal species in the "least concern" group. These animals live all over the world. They include everything from tiny insects to large mammals.

Diverse Animal Groups

The animal kingdom is huge. It includes many different types of creatures. Here are some of the groups with many "least concern" species:

• Amphibians: These are animals like frogs and salamanders. They can live both in water and on land. Many amphibians are doing well. You can find more details at List of least concern amphibians.
• Birds: Birds are animals with feathers and wings. They can be found almost everywhere. A large number of bird species are considered "least concern." See List of least concern birds for more.
• Fish: These animals live in water. They breathe using gills. Many types of fish are not currently in danger. Learn more at List of least concern fishes.
• Invertebrates: This group includes animals without a backbone. It's the largest group of animals.
  • Arthropods: These are invertebrates with an exoskeleton, like insects and spiders. Many arthropods are "least concern." Check out List of least concern arthropods.
    • Insects: Insects are a huge part of the arthropod group. They include butterflies, beetles, and ants. Many insect species are doing well. Find out more at List of least concern insects.
  • Molluscs: These are soft-bodied invertebrates. Snails, slugs, and clams are molluscs. Many mollusc species are also "least concern." See List of least concern molluscs.
• Mammals: Mammals are animals with fur or hair. They feed their young milk. Many well-known mammals are not at risk. For more, visit List of least concern mammals.
• Reptiles: These are cold-blooded animals with scales. Snakes, lizards, and turtles are reptiles. Many reptile species are also doing well. You can find more at List of least concern reptiles.

Plants: Growing Strong

The plant kingdom also has many species that are not in danger. Over 6,600 plant species are listed as "least concern." These plants are important for our planet. They produce the oxygen we breathe and are food for many animals.

The Importance of Healthy Plants

Plants are the base of almost all food chains. They help keep the air clean and provide homes for animals. When many plant species are doing well, it's a good sign for the health of our planet. You can explore more about these plants at List of least concern plants.

Why is This Important?

Knowing which species are "least concern" helps us understand the health of our planet. It shows us that conservation efforts can work. It also helps scientists focus on species that are in more danger. While these species are doing well now, it's still important to protect their homes and make sure they stay healthy for the future.

See also

• List of Chromista by conservation status — 0 listed as least concern
• List of fungi by conservation status — 0 listed as least concern