Indicator Species

Biological indicator species are unique environmental indicators as they offer a signal of the biological condition in a watershed. Using bioindicators as an early warning of pollution or degradation in an ecosystem can help sustain critical resources. While indicator species is a term that is often used, it is somewhat inaccurate. Indicators are actually groups or types of biological resources that can be used to assess environmental condition. Within each group, individual species can be used to calculate metrics such as percent Achnanthes minutissima (a diatom species) or groups of species (e.g., EPT taxa) or individual orders (e.g., Caddisfly larvae - Order Trichoptera) in an effort to assess water quality conditions.

The major groups include:

Marine environments also utilize biological indicators. While this site focuses predominately on freshwater resources, marine/tidal indicators are also quite important in sustaining biodiversity and preserving and restoring marine and estuarine resources.

Learn about river and stream animals from the Missouri Botanical Garden. Also, see their presentation on shoreline/tidal animals and plants and marine life.

Biological Indicators | Aquatic Biodiversity | Statistical Primer

Indicator Species

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