Sentinel species in Maine

Ocean scientists, ecologists and biologists are studying a wide range of “sentinel species” in Maine. These plants and animals offer clues to climate change, pollution, toxic contamination and changes in whole ecosystems. Some of the species are surrogates, or proxies, for other populations, including humans. They can disclose key elements in addressing environmental problems and help gauge whether corrective measures are working or need to be intensified. Below are some of the scores of sentinel species being studied in Maine.

Species:

Copepods

Lobster

Loons

Peregrine falcons

Migrating waterfowl

Moose & white-tailed deer

Black bear

Green crabs

Dragonflies & marshes

Freshwater fish

Cod

Whales

Mosquitoes