What role do keystone species play in an ecosystem?

Keystone species play a critical role in maintaining the structure and health of an ecosystem. These species are not necessarily the most abundant, but their presence and activities have a disproportionately large impact on the ecological community. For example, a keystone species can help regulate populations of other species, thereby preventing any one group from dominating the ecosystem. This regulatory role can enhance biodiversity and promote stability within the ecosystem.

Their influence often extends beyond their immediate interactions; they can affect the availability of resources, the physical environment, and the overall dynamics of the habitat. By maintaining species diversity and ensuring the balance of ecological relationships, keystone species contribute significantly to the resilience of ecosystems, allowing them to withstand environmental changes and stresses.

In contrast, options that suggest keystone species have little effect on ecological balance or are simply the most abundant species fail to capture their unique and critical influence on ecosystem dynamics. Additionally, viewing keystone species as a threat to biodiversity overlooks their essential role in promoting ecological health and diversity.