Biodiversity hotspots are regions that are rich in unique plant and animal species but are also threatened by human activities. To qualify as a hotspot, an area must have at least 1,500 species of vascular plants that are endemic, meaning they are not found anywhere else in the world. Additionally, it must have lost at least 70% of its original habitat. These areas are crucial for conservation efforts because they support a significant portion of the Earth's biodiversity. Protecting biodiversity hotspots helps preserve not only the unique species found there but also the ecosystems that provide essential services, such as clean air and water.