par Carrara, Gabriella 
Promoteur Jean, Hugé
Co-Promoteur Nieto Claudin, Ainoa;Benitez Capistros, Francisco Javier
;Dahdouh-Guebas, Farid
;Hunt, Carter
Publication Non publié, 2024-08-29

Promoteur Jean, Hugé
Co-Promoteur Nieto Claudin, Ainoa;Benitez Capistros, Francisco Javier
;Dahdouh-Guebas, Farid
;Hunt, CarterPublication Non publié, 2024-08-29
Mémoire
| Résumé : | In response to the accelerating biodiversity crisis, the urgent need for resource-efficientconservation tools has become paramount. This study examines the role of flagship species,particularly the Galapagos giant tortoise (Chelonoidis spp.), focusing on how their iconicstatus impacts conservation outcomes and contributes to taxonomic biases. An ethnographiccase study approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with 29conservation professionals, including a diverse range of organisations and roles. The findingsreveal that while flagship species effectively act as a symbol for conservation, raiseawareness, and attract funding, they also may risk creating a resource monopoly surroundingsuch iconic species. This trap can potentially divert attention and resources from lesscharismatic but equally critical species and ecosystems. The study provides insights into thediverse motivations driving conservation efforts and potential biases, including professionalaspirations, personal values, and environmental concerns. This study highlights the need fora balanced conservation strategy that harnesses the advantages of iconic species whileaddressing the drawbacks of taxonomic bias. Future research should explore strategies forpromoting lesser-known species and designing innovative funding approaches that prioritiseentire ecosystems. Moreover, examining the perspectives of other demographic groups,including local communities, would provide valuable insights for creating a more inclusiveand sustainable approach to biodiversity conservation. |



