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Question

Biodiversity Defined Quick Check
2 of 42 of 4 Items
Question
Use the image below to answer the question.

The plants are eaten by consumers at the first level, such as a mouse, grasshopper, whiptail, frog, squirrel, and deer. The consumers at the second level, such as ringtail, eagle, and pine marten eat the consumers at the first level. The consumers at the third level, such as wolf, mountain lion, and bobcat eat the consumers at the second level. Some of the consumers at the first level are also eaten by consumers at the third level.



Of the predators in the image, which one is most likely a keystone species?

(1 point)
Responses

pine marten
pine marten

mountain lion
mountain lion

ringtail
ringtail

frog
frog
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Answer 1

In the context of ecology, a keystone species is one that has a disproportionately large impact on its environment relative to its abundance. Keystone species often help to maintain the structure of an ecological community, influencing the types and numbers of various other species present.

Among the options provided, the mountain lion is most likely to be considered a keystone species. As a top predator, it plays a crucial role in regulating the populations of other consumers, particularly those at the second level, such as the ringtail and pine marten. By controlling these populations, mountain lions help maintain the balance within the ecosystem.

Therefore, the answer is:

mountain lion