Biodiversity & Types of Species

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What is a keystone species?

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A species that is crucial to the functioning of an ecosystem, often having a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance.

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What is an invasive species?

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A species that is NOT native to a specific location and has a tendency to spread, causing damage to the environment.

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What is an indicator species?

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An organism whose presence, absence, or abundance reflects a specific environmental condition, often used to assess the health of an ecosystem.

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What is a native species?

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A species that normally lives and thrives in a particular area, adapted to the local environment.

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What is biodiversity?

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The variety of organisms in a given area, encompassing the diversity of species, genetic variation, and ecosystems.

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What is an exotic species?

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A species that is introduced to a new area where it is not native, which may or may not become invasive.

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What is an endangered species?

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A species that is at risk of extinction due to a drastic decline in population or habitat.

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What is an extinct species?

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A species that no longer exists anywhere on Earth.

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What role do keystone species play in an ecosystem?

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They help maintain the structure of an ecological community, influencing the types and numbers of various species.

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How can invasive species affect native species?

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Invasive species can outcompete native species for resources, disrupt food webs, and lead to declines or extinctions of native populations.