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A keystone species is a species that plays a crucial role in maintaining the structure and function of an ecosystem. These species have a disproportionately large impact on their environment relative to their abundance. They help to hold the ecosystem together by influencing the presence and abundance of other species.
Here are some key points to help you understand what a keystone species is:
1. A keystone species can have a significant impact on the diversity and stability of an ecosystem.
2. Removing a keystone species can lead to drastic changes in the ecosystem, potentially causing a domino effect that affects other species.
3. Keystone species are often not the most abundant species in an ecosystem, but their presence is essential for the ecosystem's health.
For example, sea otters are considered a keystone species in kelp forest ecosystems. They help control the population of sea urchins, which if left unchecked, can overgraze kelp forests. By keeping the sea urchin population in check, sea otters indirectly support the biodiversity and health of the entire ecosystem.
I hope this explanation helps you understand the concept of a keystone species better! If you have any more questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask.
