The term "species richness" refers to the number of different species present in a given ecological community or area. It is a key component of biodiversity and provides insight into the health and stability of ecosystems. High species richness often indicates a more resilient ecosystem capable of withstanding environmental changes and disturbances. Assessing species richness is important for conservation efforts, as it helps identify areas of ecological significance and prioritize them for protection to maintain biodiversity and ecosystem services.