What is the function of a top predator in an ecosystem?

It helps regulate the population of prey species and prevent overgrazing or overpopulation of certain species, which in turn helps maintain the balance of the ecosystem. Top predators also play a crucial role in controlling the distribution and behavior of their prey, which can have cascading effects on the entire food web. Additionally, top predators can also influence the structure and diversity of the ecosystem by impacting the populations of other predators and species lower down in the food chain.