Question

Bees play a central role in the health of terrestrial ecosystems because they are vital to the pollination of plants. The extinction of bees could cause the collapse of plant-based terrestrial ecosystems. Based on this description, bees can best be described as a

A.
foundation species.

B.
native species.

C.
keystone species.

D.
specialist species.

Answer 1

Based on the description provided, bees can best be described as a **C. keystone species**. Keystone species play a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecosystem, and their removal can lead to significant changes or even collapse of that ecosystem. In this case, the role of bees in pollination is essential for the health of plant-based ecosystems.