Question

scientists have identified the elephant as a keystone species in the african savanna ecosystem. one reason is that the elephant digs holes to access groundwater that other organisms use as well. if the elephant population declined, what do you predict would happen to the ecosystem over time? what component would you need to add to the model to represent the interaction that caused the elephant population to change? the populations of animals that rely on water from elephants would increase. the ecosystem function would not change. the populations of animals that rely on water from elephants would decrease. the ecosystem function would differently. the populations of animals that rely on water from elephants would increase. the ecosystem could function differently. the populations of animals that rely on water from elephants would decrease. the ecosystem function would not change.

Explanation:

Elephants are keystone species. Their decline means less water - holes they dig. Animals relying on these water - sources from elephants would be affected. Ecosystem functions related to water availability for such animals would change.

Answer:

The populations of animals that rely on water from elephants would decline. The ecosystem function would change.