# Explain how the concept of a flagship species can be used as a strategy to support the conservation of biodiversity.

> IB DP Biology Standard Level (2023 syllabus) — A4.2 Conservation of biodiversity · Explain · 4 marks

> Conservation organisations often select a single well-known species, such as the giant panda or mountain gorilla, to represent and promote the protection of an entire ecosystem.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. A flagship species is a charismatic or well-known species chosen to raise public awareness and support for conservation efforts.
2. Protecting the habitat of the flagship species also protects the wider community of organisms sharing that ecosystem (umbrella effect).
3. The flagship species attracts funding / donations from the public and organisations, which can be directed towards broader conservation programmes.
4. There is a limitation in that focusing resources on one species may divert attention/funding from less appealing but equally or more threatened species.

## Key terms

- [flagship species](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/flagship-species)
- [biodiversity](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/biodiversity)

## Related

- [Revision notes for IB DP Biology Standard Level (2023 syllabus)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-the-concept-of-a-c59f4489) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.