What term describes the evolutionary phenomenon where Hawaiian *Hylaeus* species are found only within the Hawaiian Islands and nowhere else on Earth?
Answer
Endemism
The isolation of the Hawaiian archipelago over geological timescales has created unique evolutionary pressures, leading to the development of species found nowhere else globally. This biological concept is termed endemism. When applied to the native yellow-faced bees, endemism means that if a specific *Hylaeus* species evolved solely on the island of Oahu, its complete global population resides only there. This lack of geographic redundancy makes these endemic species extremely vulnerable, as localized disturbances—such as habitat destruction on one mountain range—can threaten the entire global existence of that species.
Related Questions
How do yellow-faced bees belonging to the genus Hylaeus store pollen for transport?How many distinct Hawaiian yellow-faced bee species have been listed as endangered by the USFWS?Which two islands are identified as the key geographic areas of concern for the most critically threatened Hawaiian Hylaeus populations?What specific habitat types are frequently cited as essential locations for endangered Oahu Hylaeus species like *Hylaeus anthracinus*?What term describes the evolutionary phenomenon where Hawaiian *Hylaeus* species are found only within the Hawaiian Islands and nowhere else on Earth?Which specific mountain system on Oahu is mentioned as a confirmed historical and current location for the endangered species *Hylaeus anthracinus*?What necessity has made military lands like Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) important refugia for native Hylaeus bees on Oahu?What is the practical focus of conservation efforts in the management areas on MCBH concerning the habitat of yellow-faced bees?Which specific island, besides Oahu, is mentioned as a potential location for the endangered species *Hylaeus assimilans*?The genus *Hylaeus* is nearly cosmopolitan, being found everywhere except for which single continent?