Australian Citizenship Practice Exam

The distinguishing characteristic of Australian wildlife lies in its high level of endemism, which means that a significant number of species are unique to Australia and are not found naturally anywhere else in the world. This phenomenon is largely attributed to Australia’s long geographical isolation, distinct ecosystems, and varied habitats that foster a wide range of niches for species to evolve independently.

Australia is home to a remarkable array of flora and fauna, including iconic animals such as kangaroos, koalas, and platypuses, all of which are native and exclusive to the continent. The unique evolutionary paths that these species have taken contribute to Australia’s biodiversity and ecological richness.

While other aspects, such as a high adaptability to urban areas or the prevalence of reptiles, are also present in Australian wildlife, they do not define it as significantly as this distinctive endemism. Similarly, the presence of large populations of introduced species is a concern for biodiversity; however, it does not reflect the unique traits of Australia’s native wildlife. The endemism factor illustrates the evolutionary history and ecological processes that have shaped Australia's unique biodiversity.