Prioritizing nationally endemic species for conservation

Over 90% of recent human-caused extinctions are wild species known from only one nation. These nationally endemic represent the greatest global conservation responsibilities for any country. To meet this responsibility, we must first identify species. We developed comprehensive inventory 308 plant, animal, and fungi infraspecies found in Canada, which approximately concern. Our analysis also identified 27 spatial concentrations species, many associated with glacial refugia, islands, coasts, unique habitats. Nationally have not been primary focus endangered Canada other countries. provides a case study on how national inventories can be applied to support assessments place-based conservation. Prioritizing build sentiments sense place responsibility foster public interest. propose framework that highlights critical role endemism preventing extinctions. Greater will international biodiversity targets, including post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework.