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?