What is the designation for a species of plants or animals that have low numbers in the wild?

The designation for a species of plants or animals that have low numbers in the wild is "Endangered." This term specifically refers to species that face a very high risk of extinction in the wild due to several factors, such as habitat loss, poaching, or environmental changes. The designation is part of a classification system that helps conservationists prioritize efforts to protect these species.

In contrast, "Vulnerable" refers to species that are at risk of becoming endangered in the near future due to declining populations, while "Rare" could describe species with naturally low populations but not necessarily indicate an immediate risk of extinction like the term "Endangered." The term "Common" is used for species that have stable or healthy populations and are not facing significant threats. Thus, "Endangered" accurately reflects the critical status of species that are currently experiencing drastic population declines.