Bioindikaattorina

Bioindikaattorina refers to the use of living organisms as indicators of environmental conditions. These organisms, known as bioindicators, are sensitive to changes in their surroundings and their presence, absence, or abundance can reveal information about the health of an ecosystem. Various types of organisms can serve as bioindicators, including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms. The choice of bioindicator depends on the specific environmental factor being monitored, such as air quality, water pollution, or soil contamination. For example, certain species of lichens are highly sensitive to sulfur dioxide pollution and can indicate poor air quality. Aquatic invertebrates, like mayfly larvae, are often used to assess the health of freshwater ecosystems, as their presence suggests good water quality. Monitoring bioindicators allows scientists and environmental managers to detect subtle environmental changes, assess the impact of human activities, and evaluate the effectiveness of conservation efforts. This method provides a natural and often cost-effective way to gain insights into complex environmental systems.