Question

Of the predators in the image, which one is most likely a keystone species?
Mountain lion
Ringtail
Frog
Pine marten

Answer 1

Among the predators listed—mountain lion, ringtail, frog, and pine marten—the mountain lion is most likely to be considered a keystone species.

A keystone species plays a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecosystem, and mountain lions help regulate prey populations, which in turn helps maintain the balance of the ecosystem. Their predation on herbivores can prevent overgrazing and promote biodiversity. The other species, while also important, do not typically have the same broad impact on their ecosystems as mountain lions do.