Answer :
Final answer:
In the context of rocky coastal ecosystems, the sea otter acts as a keystone species. Its presence or absence has a significant impact on the structure of the ecosystem, the preservation of kelp forests, and overall species diversity.
Explanation:
In the given scenario, the sea otter can best be described as a keystone species. The term 'keystone species' denotes a species that plays a crucial role in maintaining the structure of an ecosystem and preserving biodiversity. When a keystone species is removed from an ecological community, the diversity of that community significantly decreases, often leading to drastic changes in the ecosystem.
For example, the reintroduction of wolves, another keystone species, to Yellowstone National Park led to substantial changes in the park's ecosystem, indicating the powerful role keystone species play within their habitats. The sea otter, in this case, is a keystone species because its disappearance led to the loss of kelp forests and a decrease in species diversity, both signs of a reduction in ecosystem health.
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