Definition

Able to survive or thrive only in specific environmental conditions, often referring to certain plants or animals that cannot adapt to changes outside their preferred habitat.

Example

The stenotopic species can only live in the unique conditions of the rainforest, making it vulnerable to climate change.

Conversation

I read that some plants are stenotopic and can only survive in specific environments.

Really? That sounds fascinating but also kind of limiting for them.

Yeah, I guess it makes them more vulnerable to climate changes.

Exactly! They can struggle if their habitat changes even a little.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stenotopic is formed from "steno-" (from Greek "stenos", meaning narrow) and "topos" (meaning place). The word describes organisms that thrive in a narrow range of environmental conditions, hence referring to their specific habitat preferences.

Memory Tip

Think of 'narrow' ('steno-') and 'place' ('topos') to remember that 'stenotopic' refers to organisms that live in a very specific or narrow habitat.

Visually Confused Words