Question

a keystone species is a plant or an animal which plays an important role in the functioning of an ecosystem. sea otters are a keystone species found along the coast of the pacific ocean. they are now considered an endangered species.
why is it essential to preserve sea otters?
○ to maintain the biodiversity of the ocean
○ to decrease the amount of carbon dioxide in the ocean
○ to increase the amount of oxygen in the ocean
○ to maintain the phytoplankton population in the ocean

Explanation:

Keystone species are critical to ecosystem stability, as their presence maintains the balance of all organisms in the habitat. Preserving sea otters, a keystone species, directly sustains the ocean's overall biodiversity by preventing trophic cascades that would disrupt the ecosystem. The other options are indirect or secondary effects, while maintaining biodiversity is the core, essential reason.

Answer:

to maintain the biodiversity of the ocean