Question

which of the following best describes an apex predator? a. species that feed on primary producers b. top predator in a food chain with no natural predators c. organism that decomposes organic matter d. primary consumer in an ecosystem which of the following is not a characteristic of a keystone species? a. it influences the types and numbers of other species b. it plays a critical role in maintaining ecosystem structure c. it has a large population d. its removal can lead to significant changes in the ecosystem what role do decomposers play in an ecosystem? a. they are top predators. b. they feed on primary consumers. c. they break down dead organic matter. d. they are primary producers.

Explanation:

1. An apex predator is defined as the top - predator in a food chain with no natural predators. Species that feed on primary producers are primary consumers. Organisms that decompose organic matter are decomposers. Primary consumers are those that feed on primary producers.
2. A keystone species has a disproportionately large impact on its environment relative to its abundance. It influences the types and numbers of other species, plays a critical role in maintaining ecosystem structure, and its removal can lead to significant changes in the ecosystem. It does not necessarily have a large population.
3. Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. They are not top predators, do not feed on primary consumers, and are not primary producers.

Answer:

1. B. Top predator in a food chain with no natural predators
2. C. It has a large population
3. C. They break down dead organic matter