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

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A predator keystone species can help maintain species diversity in a community by preventing any one species from becoming too dominant or overpopulated. By regulating the population of other species, it can also create niches for less competitive species and ultimately ensure a more stable and diverse ecosystem. B and D are incorrect because a keystone species is typically viewed as having a positive impact on the community, rather than destroying it. C could be true, but it is not the only (or necessarily the primary) way that a predator keystone species contributes to maintaining diversity in a community.

A Keystone Species That Is a Predator Will