Consider the following marine community: Sea otters prey on sea urchins and therefore help maintain a healthy sea urchin population. Sea urchins prey on kelp. By helping to maintain viable sea urchin populations, the sea otters are also allowing enough kelp to grow and act as a habitat for other organisms.
-In this marine community, the sea otter is a
A) primary consumer.
B) producer.
C) keystone species.
D) scavenger.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sea otter is identified as a keystone species because it plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall health and balance of the marine community by controlling the sea urchin population, which in turn affects the growth of kelp and the overall ecosystem.

Consider the Following Marine Community: Sea Otters Prey on Sea