Question

1. what is the definition of a keystone species? what kinds of things can be impacted by the absence of a keystone species? 2. when done, please comment on two other students posts about an example of a keystone species. what makes that organism a keystone species? example post: a keystone species is a species of an organism that _. if a keystone species is absent from an environment, that absence can create changes in _. example reply: an example of a keystone species would be _. this organism is considered a keystone species because

Explanation:

A keystone species is one that has a disproportionately large impact on its natural environment relative to its abundance. Its absence can impact the ecosystem structure, species diversity, and food - web dynamics. For example, sea otters are keystone species as they control sea urchin populations, which in turn affects kelp forest health.

Answer:

1. A keystone species is a species of an organism that has a large impact on its ecosystem relative to its abundance. If a keystone species is absent from an environment, that absence can create changes in ecosystem structure, species diversity, and food - web dynamics.
2. An example of a keystone species would be the sea otter. This organism is considered a keystone species because it preys on sea urchins, controlling their population. Without sea otters, sea urchin populations would explode and over - graze kelp forests, leading to significant changes in the marine ecosystem.