Overview
Keystone species are vital components of ecosystems, playing a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Their presence or absence can lead to significant changes in the structure and health of their environments. For example, the removal of a keystone species can result in a cascade of negati...
Key Terms
Example: A forest ecosystem includes trees, animals, soil, and water.
Example: Coral reefs are known for their high biodiversity.
Example: Producers are at the first trophic level.
Example: In a food web, a hawk may eat a rabbit, which eats grass.
Example: Lions are predators that hunt zebras.
Example: Rabbits are prey for foxes.
Related Topics
Trophic Cascades
The ecological phenomenon where changes in the population of one species can cause ripple effects throughout the food web.
intermediateEcological Succession
The process by which ecosystems change and develop over time, often influenced by keystone species.
intermediateEndangered Species
Species that are at risk of extinction, often including keystone species that play critical roles in their ecosystems.
advancedKey Concepts
Ecosystem BalanceBiodiversityTrophic LevelsSpecies Interactions