Conservation hotspots are best described as

Options

A. areas with large numbers of endemic species that are disappearing rapidly
B. areas where people are particularly active supporters of biological diversity
C. islands that are experiencing high rates of extinction
D. areas where native species ate being replaced with introduced species

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Conservation Hotspots**: Conservation hotspots are regions that are both rich in biodiversity and under significant threat from human activities. They are characterized by a high number of endemic species, which are species that are not found anywhere else in the world.

2. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Option A**: Areas with a large number of endemic species that are disappearing rapidly. This aligns with the definition of conservation hotspots, as these areas are critical for conservation efforts due to the unique species they harbor.
- **Option B**: Areas where people, particularly active supporters of biological diversity, are present. While community involvement is important for conservation, this does not define a conservation hotspot.
- **Option C**: Islands that are experiencing high rates of extinction. While islands can be hotspots, the statement focuses on extinction rather than the presence of unique species, which is a key characteristic of hotspots.
- **Option D**: Areas where native species are being replaced with introduced species. This scenario indicates ecological disruption rather than conservation, thus not fitting the definition of a hotspot.

3. **Conclusion**: Based on the evaluation of the options, the best description of conservation hotspots is **Option A**: areas with a large number of endemic species that are disappearing rapidly.