A keystone species that is a predator will
A) maintain the species diversity in a community.
B) harvest prey species to extinction.
C) help many of its prey reproduce.
D) reduce the diversity of the community.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A keystone predator species plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance and diversity of a community by controlling the population of its prey species. By limiting the abundance of a few dominant species, it allows other species to thrive and fills the gaps left by their absence, thus increasing species diversity in the community. Predators do not typically harvest prey species to extinction, as they require a stable prey population to survive. Additionally, predation can help in the reproduction of prey species by selecting for the fittest individuals and removing weak or sick individuals from the population, creating a healthier and stronger population overall. Predators do not reduce community diversity, they maintain it.

A Keystone Species That Is a Predator Will