QQuestionAnatomy and Physiology
QuestionAnatomy and Physiology
Which statement best describes a keystone species?
A. It has little genetic variation.
B. It has an extremely high population.
C. It remains unaffected by all environmental changes.
D. It has a strong influence on the ecosystem.
E. It’s the first species to populate a new ecosystem.
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Answer
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Step 1
The question is asking for a description of a keystone species, which is a species that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance. The correct answer is: D. It has a strong influence on the ecosystem.
Step 2
Now, let's examine the other answer choices and explain why they are incorrect: A. It has little genetic variation. This answer is incorrect because genetic variation is not related to a species' influence on its ecosystem. B. It has an extremely high population. This answer is incorrect because a high population does not necessarily mean a strong influence on the ecosystem. C. It remains unaffected by all environmental changes. This answer is incorrect because no species is immune to environmental changes. E. It’s the first species to populate a new ecosystem. This answer is incorrect because being the first species to populate an ecosystem does not guarantee a strong influence on that ecosystem.
Final Answer
It has a strong influence on the ecosystem. A keystone species is a species that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance.
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