Flagship Species

Definition

A flagship species is a charismatic or iconic species chosen to represent an environmental cause or campaign. It helps raise awareness and support for conservation efforts by capturing public attention and interest.

Related terms

Indicator Species: A species whose presence, absence, or abundance can indicate specific environmental conditions.

Umbrella Species: A wide-ranging species whose conservation benefits many other less charismatic or lesser-known species that share its habitat.

Endangered Species Act (ESA): U.S. legislation enacted to protect threatened and endangered plants and animals as well as their habitats.