Typically when a keystone species is removed from a community:
A)another keystone species colonizes the area and the community remains relatively unchanged.
B)species diversity in the community will increase.
C)species diversity in the community will decrease.
D)there will be species turnover and none of the original species will remain in the community.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Keystone species play a critical role in maintaining the structure and function of their ecosystem. When a keystone species is removed, it can have a cascading effect on the rest of the community, causing a decrease in species diversity. This is because the keystone species was likely keeping other species in check, and without it, there may be an overgrowth of certain species, leading to competition for limited resources and potentially a decrease in overall biodiversity. Option A is unlikely because not all communities have an available keystone species waiting in the wings. Option B may happen in some cases, but it is not the typical scenario. Option D is also unlikely as the keystone species is just one component of a larger community and there are many other factors influencing which species remain or leave the area.

Typically When a Keystone Species Is Removed from a Community