Understanding Indicator Species

What is an indicator species?

• A species that is the most abundant in an ecosystem

• A species that provides information about the health of an ecosystem

• A species that is the largest predator in an ecosystem

• A species that is used for commercial purposes

Which of the following is an example of an indicator species?

• African Elephant

• Polar Bear

• Lichen

• Blue Whale

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Indicator species are often used to assess which of the following?

• Economic growth

• Ecosystem health

• Population density

• Climate change

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of an indicator species?

• Sensitive to environmental changes

• Provides early warning of ecological changes

• Always the top predator in the food chain

• Reflects the quality of the environment

Why are amphibians often considered good indicator species?

• They are immune to pollutants

• They have a short lifespan

• They are sensitive to changes in water quality

• They are found only in tropical regions

Which of the following is a reason why lichens are used as indicator species?

• They grow quickly

• They are resistant to pollution

• They absorb pollutants from the air

• They are found in deserts

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

What role do indicator species play in conservation biology?

• They help identify areas that need protection

• They are used to increase biodiversity

• They are bred in captivity for release

• They are used to control pest populations

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-2

Which of the following is an example of a plant indicator species?

• Oak Tree

• Cactus

• Pine Tree

• Moss

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

What is the primary reason scientists study indicator species?

• To increase their population

• To understand ecosystem dynamics

• To develop new medicines

• To create new habitats

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Which of the following is a common characteristic of indicator species?

• They are always herbivores

• They have a wide range of tolerance to environmental changes

• They are sensitive to specific environmental conditions

• They are always migratory