The total number of different species in a specific area is referred to as species richness. This biodiversity metric reflects the variety of organisms present within a given ecosystem, encompassing plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms. Higher species richness typically indicates greater ecosystem health and stability, while lower richness may signal ecological stress or degradation. Assessing species richness is crucial for conservation efforts, as it helps identify areas that require protection and can guide strategies for maintaining biodiversity in the face of environmental challenges.