Keystone species are those that are a necessary component to the stability of the ecosystem, and without them, many other organisms would not survive and the ecosystem can collapse. Which of these is NOT an example of a keystone species and the role it plays in Georgia's ecosystems?

Question

Responses

A beaver; their dams create small ponds to help other species have a place to live and helps to stimulate the growth of plantsbeaver; their dams create small ponds to help other species have a place to live and helps to stimulate the growth of plants

B kudzu; kudzu was introduced from Japan as an ornamental plant, and the Civilian Conservation Corps used it to help reduce soil erosionkudzu; kudzu was introduced from Japan as an ornamental plant, and the Civilian Conservation Corps used it to help reduce soil erosion

C alligators; their tails dig holes that hold water during times of drought, and this water is used as a source for drinking water by many speciesalligators; their tails dig holes that hold water during times of drought, and this water is used as a source for drinking water by many species

D red cocaded woodpecker; they drill deep nests into Georgia's pine trees, and when not in use by the woodpecker, many other organisms will use them

Answer 1

The response that is NOT an example of a keystone species is:

B. kudzu; kudzu was introduced from Japan as an ornamental plant, and the Civilian Conservation Corps used it to help reduce soil erosion.

Kudzu is considered an invasive species rather than a keystone species. It disrupts local ecosystems by outcompeting native plants, which can lead to a decrease in biodiversity and negatively impact the stability of the ecosystem. In contrast, beavers, alligators, and red-cockaded woodpeckers all play crucial roles in their respective ecosystems, helping to maintain stability and support other species.