Keystone Species And Their Crucial Role In Ecosystem Balance

The video tutorial explains the concept of keystone species, which are crucial for maintaining ecosystem balance. It highlights the roles of predators, such as lions and tigers, and pollinators like bees. The historical context is provided, mentioning Robert Piney's introduction of the concept in 1969. Examples include the sea otter's role in controlling sea urchin populations to protect kelp forests. The tutorial concludes by emphasizing the importance of keystone species in conserving ecosystems.

What is a keystone species?

• A species with a large effect on its environment relative to its abundance

• A species with a large population

• A species that is always a predator

• A species that is always a plant

How do lions contribute to ecosystem balance?

• By increasing the number of herbivores

• By eating plants

• By preying on herbivores like deer

• By pollinating flowers

Which of the following is NOT a role of a keystone species?

• Predator

• Decomposer

• Prey

• Pollinator

Who introduced the concept of keystone species?

• Robert Piney

• E.O. Wilson

• Charles Darwin

• Jane Goodall

What happens if a keystone species collapses in an ecosystem?

• The ecosystem remains unchanged

• The ecosystem becomes more diverse

• The entire ecosystem may collapse

• The ecosystem becomes more stable

Which animal is an example of a keystone predator?

• Deer

• Tiger

• Bee

• Rabbit

What role do bees play in an ecosystem?

• Predators

• Pollinators

• Decomposers

• Herbivores

How do sea otters help maintain ocean ecosystems?

• By pollinating ocean plants

• By being prey for sharks

• By controlling sea urchin populations

• By eating sea kelp

What is the impact of large mammalian predators on ecosystems?

• They have no significant impact

• They help maintain balance by consuming various species

• They decrease biodiversity

• They only affect small ecosystems

Why are keystone species important despite their low numbers?

• They are the most abundant species

• They have a disproportionate impact on their environment

• They are the least important species

• They are the most visible species