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Question

The plants are eaten by consumers at the first level, such as rat, grasshopper, frog, squirrel, whiptail, 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 cat eat the consumers at the second level. Some of the consumers at the first level are also eaten by consumers at the third level.



Which one of the following animals is most likely to be a keystone species, based on the food web provided?

(1 point)
Responses

frog
frog

grasshopper
grasshopper

deer
deer

Mouse
Mouse
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Answer 1

Based on the description of the food web you provided, a keystone species is generally one that has a disproportionately large impact on its environment relative to its abundance. In food webs, keystone species often play a critical role in maintaining the structure of the ecosystem.

Among the options given:

• Frog: Frogs can be significant as both predators and prey, and they often help control insect populations.
• Grasshopper: Typically serves as prey for many animals, but does not usually have a large impact on the ecosystem.
• Deer: Deer can impact plant communities through grazing but tend to be more of a consumer than a regulatory species.
• Mouse: Mice serve as prey for various species and may not significantly influence the ecosystem's overall structure.

Of these options, the frog is likely the most suitable choice for being a keystone species, as it can help regulate insect populations while also being a food source for higher-level consumers. Frogs are also important for nutrient cycling in their aquatic habitats.

Thus, the answer is frog.