Question

Which of the following options describe keystone species appropriateley?

• A. A rare species that has minimal impact on the biomass and on other species in the community.
• B. A dominant species that constitute a large proportion of the biomass and which affects many other species.
• C. A species critical for the overall structure and functioning of a ecosystem as it affects the survival of other species.
• D. A common species that has plenty of biomass yet has a fairly low impact on the community’s organization.

Answer 1

The correct option is C A species critical for the overall structure and functioning of a ecosystem as it affects the survival of other species.

Keystone species help to maintain local biodiversity within a community either by controlling populations of other species that would otherwise dominate the community or by providing critical resources for a wide range of species. Some examples of keystone species include the bison, prairie dog, and otter.