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Answer :
Final answer:
Keystone species are critical for maintaining biodiversity and the structure of ecosystems. Their removal can lead to significant changes in species composition and biodiversity loss. Examples include the intertidal sea star, which regulates mussel populations, and the banded tetra, which supplies essential nutrients.
Explanation:
Role of a Keystone Species in an Ecosystem
A keystone species is one whose presence is key to maintaining biodiversity within an ecosystem and upholding an ecological community's structure. These species have a disproportionate impact on their environment, meaning that even a small number of individuals can cause large-scale changes.
For example, the intertidal sea star, Pisaster ochraceus, found along the northwestern coast of the United States, is a well-known keystone species. When it is removed from its community, populations of its natural prey, such as mussels, can increase dramatically. This rise in mussel populations can result in significant changes in the ecosystem, including a decrease in algae, which can subsequently alter species composition and reduce overall biodiversity.
Another example is the banded tetra, a fish found in tropical streams, which plays a crucial role in nutrient cycling. It supplies nearly all of the phosphorus, a necessary inorganic nutrient, to the aquatic ecosystem. If these fish were to become extinct, the entire community would be negatively impacted.
In summary, keystone species like the intertidal sea star and the banded tetra are essential for maintaining the balance and biodiversity of their ecosystems. Their loss can lead to drastic ecological consequences that affect many other species.
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