Preface and Acknowledgments Introduction 1. Biotic Uniqueness: An Overview Problems in Defining Endemism Large-Scale Patterns in Species Richness and Endemism Origins of Endemic Species Traits of Endemic Species 2. A Brief History of California Geologic History Climatic History Floristic History 3. Plant Endemism in California: Patterns and Causes Estimating Plant Endemism Geography of Diversity and Endemism Edaphic Endemism New Evidence on the Evolution of Neoendemics New Evidence on Paleoendemism Californian Plant Endemism in a World Context 4. Animal Endemism in California Cross-Taxonomic Comparisons Mammals Birds Reptiles Fish Amphibians Invertebrates 5. Conservation Challenges in California's Endemic-Rich Landscape Endangered Species Laws Natural Community Conservation Planning Conservation Easements Conservation Banking Advance Mitigation Biodiversity Information Systematic Conservation Planning Marine and Aquatic Conservation Climate Change Science and Policy 6. Synthesis and Conclusions Appendix: Preliminary List of Plant Species Endemic to the California Floristic Province Literature Cited Index