What Is A Keystone Species
By: NDTVNewsDesk
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A keystone species is an organism that has a disproportionately large impact on its ecosystem relative to its population size.
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Its removal can lead to dramatic changes, a collapse, or the extinction of other species.
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The species is crucial for maintaining the ecosystem's structure and biodiversity.
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Keystone species can be predators (like sea stars that keep mussel populations in check).
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Herbivores, like elephants that keep forests from turning into grasslands, can be another example.
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Mutualists, like hummingbirds that pollinate specific plants, can also be keystones species.
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Some species, like beavers, are "ecosystem engineers" that physically alter their environment to create habitats for others.
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Other keystone species include sea otters, which are highly influential in the functioning of kelp forests.
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