Cultural Keystone Species: Implications for Ecological Conservation and Restoration

Presented byGregory Niguidula

Ann GaribaldiBSc In Botany fromOhio UniversityMSc In Ethnobotany from University of Victoria

Nancy TurnerBSc in Biology fromUniversity of VictoriaPhD in Ethnobotany fromUniversity of British ColumbiaDistinguished Professor at Univeristy of Victoria

What is a keystone species? “A species whose impact on its

community or ecosystem is large, and disproportionately large relative to its abundance”

Aim “Highlight the parallels between what

we refer to as ecological keystone species and cultural keystone species”

What is a cultural keystone? Intensity, type, and multiplicity of use Naming and terminology in a language Role in narratives, ceremonies, or symbolism Persistence and memory of use in

relationship to cultural change Level of unique position in culture Extent to which it provides opportunities for

resource acquisition from beyond the territory

What is a cultural keystone? How is it used? What are its connotations? Is it revered? How is it remembered? Is it replaceable? Can it be sold?

Cultural Keystone species can be used as starting points for conservation

Limits Absolute quantification is not possible Declaring a species as a keystone may

limit its use People lie Cultural keystones can also be invasive

Further Research Investigate cultural keystone animals Investigate the ecological impact of CKS Investigate the extent to which CKS

affect humans Are there CKS in developed societies?