Answer :
A species that is so important that if it were removed, the whole ecosystem would change drastically is called a "keystone species."
What is a Keystone Species?
A keystone species is a species that has a disproportionately large impact on its environment relative to its abundance. This means that even though the species might not be the most numerous or biggest in the ecosystem, it plays a crucial role in maintaining the structure and health of that ecosystem.
Why are they important?
Ecological Balance: Keystone species help to maintain the balance of ecosystems. They control population sizes, which ensures that no single species dominates the ecosystem.
Biodiversity: They support the diversity of species in an ecosystem. By managing the populations, they allow different species to coexist, which increases biodiversity.
Structural Role: Some keystone species physically modify the environment in ways that benefit other species. For example, beavers build dams, creating ponds that provide habitats for other aquatic organisms.
Examples of Keystone Species:
Wolves in Yellowstone National Park: Wolves control the population of elk, which in turn prevents overgrazing of vegetation. This allows trees and shrubs to flourish, supporting a broader range of biodiversity, including birds and other plant species.
Sea Otters: In coastal regions, sea otters eat sea urchins. Without otters, sea urchin populations can explode and overgraze kelp forests, destroying an entire marine ecosystem.
Bees: As pollinators, bees are crucial for the reproduction of many plants, which then support entire ecosystems by providing food and habitats.
Conclusion:
Removing a keystone species from an ecosystem can have ripple effects, leading to a collapse of the ecosystem's structure and diversity. This highlights the critical importance of conserving these species to maintain healthy and functioning ecosystems.
