In Paine's studies of the rocky intertidal zone, which species or group of species acted most like a keystone species?
A) Mussels of the genus Mytilus
B) Acorn barnacles (Balanus glandula)
C) Gooseberry barnacles (genus Pollicipes)
D) Pisaster sea stars

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pisaster sea stars acted as a keystone species in Paine's studies because their presence or absence had a significant impact on the structure of the community, particularly in controlling the population of mussels and maintaining biodiversity.

In Paine's Studies of the Rocky Intertidal Zone, Which Species