California is home to an incredible variety of plant and animal species, making it one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. The state's diverse ecosystems range from coastal areas and forests to deserts and mountains, supporting over 6,500 species of plants and 1,000 species of vertebrates. This rich biodiversity is influenced by California's unique climate and geography. Many species found in California are endemic, meaning they are not found anywhere else on Earth. Notable examples include the California poppy, the state flower, and the California condor, one of the world's rarest birds. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect this biodiversity from threats like habitat loss and climate change.