indicator species

American  

noun

1. see indicator.

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indicator species Scientific  

1. A species whose presence, absence, or relative well-being in a given environment is a sign of the overall health of its ecosystem. By monitoring the condition and behavior of an indicator species, scientists can determine how changes in the environment are likely to affect other species that are more difficult to study.

2. Compare keystone species

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Example Sentences

Surveys of butterflies are important for conservation because they are known as indicator species, meaning rises and falls in their populations can predict the health of the wider ecosystem.

From BBC • Apr. 25, 2025

Polar bears are what is known as an indicator species, meaning they predict the health and viability of the broader Arctic ecosystem.

From New York Times • Jun. 13, 2024

In future, exploration teams could build up a database of indicator species and test an unknown site to find out if kimberlite deposits are buried beneath the soil.

From Science Daily • Oct. 24, 2023

“Harbor seals are an important indicator species for the ecosystem around them.”

From Seattle Times • Nov. 23, 2022

Coho salmon, also known as silver salmon, are prized among fishermen and an important indicator species — the canary in the coal mine for coastal watersheds along the northern Pacific Ocean.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 3, 2020