Keystone Species Quiz

Which of the following is an example of an indicator species?

• Beavers

• Clams

• Wolves

• Oak trees

What is a keystone species?

• A species that is the most abundant in an ecosystem.

• A species that plays a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecological community.

• A species that can live in a variety of ecosystems.

• A species that is at the top of the food chain.

What role do foundation species play in an ecosystem?

• They indicate the health of the ecosystem.

• They provide critical food resources for other species.

• They create or enhance habitats that benefit other species.

• They control the population sizes of other species.

What is a keystone mutualist?

• A species that competes with others for resources.

• A species that has a mutualistic relationship and is crucial for ecosystem function.

• A species that migrates and affects multiple ecosystems.

• A species that preys on keystone species.

Which of the following is an example of an ecosystem engineer?

• Deer

• Beavers

• Eagles

• Snakes

How do sea otters act as a keystone species in their ecosystem?

• By building dams that create wetlands.

• By controlling sea urchin populations, which helps maintain kelp forest ecosystems.

• By spreading seeds that grow into plants.

• By digging burrows that are used by other species.

What happens if a keystone species is removed from an ecosystem?

• The ecosystem becomes more stable.

• There is no significant change in the ecosystem.

• The ecosystem may undergo dramatic changes.

• The biodiversity of the ecosystem increases.

Which of the following best describes an indicator species?

• A species that is unaffected by changes in the ecosystem.

• A species that provides a sign of the ecosystem's health.

• A species that preys on invasive species.

• A species that can only live in a specific type of habitat.

What is the primary role of foundation species in their ecosystems?

• To regulate the population of other species.

• To serve as the primary food source for predators.

• To help create or maintain a habitat for other organisms.

• To migrate and bring nutrients from one ecosystem to another.

How do keystone mutualists benefit their ecosystems?

• By exclusively consuming invasive species.

• Through relationships that support the survival of many other species.

• By moving seeds and nutrients across large distances.

• By serving as the primary food source for apex predators.