Native Species

What is a native species?

A native species is one that existed somewhere in southcentral Ontario prior to European settlement and is adapted to local conditions. The term “native” often has a political connotation—e.g. native to Ontario—although, given the size of Ontario, this can be less than helpful. Indigenous is a term that is often used interchangeably with “native”, but has a more useful, locally explicit meaning. An indigenous species is adapted to local conditions such as a river watershed, or even more specifically, to the bottom slopes of the river valley.

Why should you care about native species?

They are adapted to the local climate, site conditions and other indigenous species.
They have evolved with local insects and diseases, and problems tend to be minimal.
They perpetuate local ecosystem functions such as soil and water conservation and wildlife habitat.
They provide economic benefits—food, wood products, recreation, etc.

So how do you know which species are native to your area? Click the map below to narrow down your location:

	FGCA > Conservation of Genetic Diversity > Native Species
	Native Species What is a native species? A native species is one that existed somewhere in southcentral Ontario prior to European settlement and is adapted to local conditions. The term “native” often has a political connotation—e.g. native to Ontario—although, given the size of Ontario, this can be less than helpful. Indigenous is a term that is often used interchangeably with “native”, but has a more useful, locally explicit meaning. An indigenous species is adapted to local conditions such as a river watershed, or even more specifically, to the bottom slopes of the river valley. Why should you care about native species? They are adapted to the local climate, site conditions and other indigenous species. They have evolved with local insects and diseases, and problems tend to be minimal. They perpetuate local ecosystem functions such as soil and water conservation and wildlife habitat. They provide economic benefits—food, wood products, recreation, etc. So how do you know which species are native to your area? Click the map below to narrow down your location: