8.5,6,7: Keystone Species

Question 1

Some species play a more pivotal role than others in a community. Knowing this, why is a keystone species important to an ecosystem?

Answer 1

• not usually abundant, but other species in an ecosystem rely of them because of their important ecological niches

Question 2

Coral reef is an example of a keystone species. Why?

Answer 2

• many other organisms rely upon it as a source of and protection

Question 3

Why are honey bees considered keystone species?

Answer 3

They serve as pollinators

Question 4

Keystone species, producers, and essential abiotic and biotic factors contribute to maintaining the ___ of the ecosystem

Answer 4

Diversity

Question 5

What would happen if a keystone species were to be removed? (2)

Answer 5

• it would have a rippling effect on the ecosystem

- ecosystems often collapse