The concept of cultural keystone species, revisited through the eyes of Indigenous Peoples on northern Turtle Island

This paper explores the concept of cultural keystone species (CKS) from Indigenous perspectives in what is now known as Canada. Many Indigenous Peoples view Land as a relative requiring stewardship, with certain species holding cultural significance. CKS play vital roles in diet, medicine, and traditions, defined by their importance to Indigenous cultures rather than ecological dominance. Examples include cedar, salmon, and bison. The paper discusses how CKS relate to Land, Water, and community well-being, emphasizing interconnectedness. The study was conducted in two phases, and included a workshop with 37 people from 12 Anishinabek Nations, and interviews or sharing circles with 16 participants from Indigenous Nations across Canada. These took place between 2019 and 2021. Many aspects of the CKS concept were supported in examples shared by participants. Participants expressed that the CKS concept extends well beyond foods and medicines, to holistically include community well-being, identity, clans, indicators, and teachings. Emphasis was placed on the interconnections between CKS and the life-giving importance of air and water. A major challenge that appeared in interviews and was contributed from the authors’ personal perspectives involved ranking species’ relative importance, as from many Indigenous perspectives, all are deemed significant. The paper highlights the holistic, interconnected lens through which many Indigenous Peoples view relations with CKS, and emphasizes the need for greater Indigenous involvement in environmental research and policy.