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Question
Based on "The Future of Life on Earth" Express edition by Michael Bright (MyOn book)

Which of the following is a keystone species?

(1 point)
Responses

Sea otter
Sea otter

Dungeness crab
Dungeness crab

Rockfish
Rockfish

Salmon
Salmon
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1 answer

In the context of ecosystems, a keystone species is one that has a disproportionately large impact on its environment relative to its abundance. Among the options provided, the sea otter is often cited as a keystone species, especially in coastal marine ecosystems. Sea otters help maintain the balance of kelp forest ecosystems by preying on sea urchins, which, if unchecked, can overgraze kelp.

Therefore, the correct response is:

Sea otter