Answer :
Final answer:
A keystone species is one that is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ecological community structure. Ecologist Robert Paine conducted studies that showed how the removal of the intertidal sea star, Pisaster ochraceus, led to increased mussel populations and reduced biodiversity.
Explanation:
A keystone species is one whose presence is key to maintaining biodiversity within an ecosystem and upholding an ecological community's structure. The intertidal sea star, Pisaster ochraceus, is an example of a keystone species. Ecologist Robert Paine conducted studies that showed when the starfish was removed from communities, populations of its natural prey, mussels, increased, ultimately altering the species composition and reducing biodiversity.
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