Indicator Species

Indicator species are like biological "watchdogs" that reveal the health of their environment. They are specific organisms—such as plants, animals, or microbes—that are sensitive to certain environmental conditions or changes. When these species are present, absent, or change in number, they provide scientists with important clues about the state of the ecosystem, such as pollution levels, habitat quality, or climate shifts. Because they react predictably to specific conditions, indicator species help us assess environmental health efficiently, guiding conservation efforts and environmental management.