Answer :
Final answer:
Foundation species are primary producers that shape ecosystems, while keystone species have a disproportionate impact on species composition and biodiversity.
Explanation:
Foundation species and keystone species are both important in shaping ecosystems, but they have different roles and impacts.
A foundation species, such as kelp, is a primary producer that forms the base of an ecosystem. They provide habitat and resources for other species and their removal can lead to significant changes in the ecosystem's structure and function.
On the other hand, a keystone species has a disproportionate impact on the ecosystem relative to its abundance. Their presence or absence can greatly influence the species composition and biodiversity of an ecosystem. For example, the sea otter is a keystone species in kelp forest ecosystems because it controls the population of sea urchins, which are primary consumers that feed on kelp.
