The Importance of Keystone Species

The Importance of Keystone Species

Every species plays an indispensable role in our complex ecosystem. However, there are certain species that are of particular importance because they have a disproportionate influence on the availability and distribution of resources in their environment. These species are called keystone species. These species, whose name comes from the architectural term "keystone," are so important that without them, the entire ecosystem can collapse. In this article, we will explain the concept of keystone species in more detail, why they are so important, and analyze examples of keystone species.

What are Keystone Species?

definition

A keystone species is a species of animal or plant that has a larger than average impact on its environment, relative to its biomass or population density. The term “keystone species” was coined in 1969 by Robert T. Paine, an American ecologist, to describe the species that play a particularly important role in their ecosystem (Paine, 1969).

Although keystone species are not necessarily the largest or most widespread species in an ecosystem, changes in their population can have significant effects on the structure and function of the entire ecosystem. Their key role is due to their ability to influence the presence, abundance and interaction between other species.

Categorization

Keystone species can generally be divided into three categories:

1. Prädatoren: Durch die Kontrolle der Population von Beutetieren trägt die Keystone-Art dazu bei, eine gesunde Artenvielfalt zu erhalten.
2. Ingenieur-Arten: Diese Arten gestalten aktiv ihre Umwelt, indem sie Ökosysteme schaffen oder verändern, die anderen Arten Lebensraum bieten.
3. Mutualisten: Diese Arten tragen durch Beziehungen der gegenseitigen Vorteilhaftigkeit zur Vielfalt des Ökosystems bei.

The Importance of Keystone Species

Keystone species are central to the functioning of ecosystems. Their eradication or drastic reduction could have far-reaching impacts on the biodiversity and stability of the communities in which they live.

Preservation of biodiversity

One of their main functions is maintaining biodiversity. They do this by maintaining the balance of species within an ecosystem, often keeping the spread of dominant species in check. If the population of the Keystone species declines or is wiped out, the dominant species could take over, leading to a reduction in biodiversity.

Maintaining ecological balance

Keystone species also help maintain ecological balance. They can do this by regulating other species directly, such as predators controlling the population of their prey, or through indirect ways, such as providing habitat or food for other species.

Examples of Keystone Species

Sea otter

A classic example of a keystone species is the sea otter. Sea otters feed on sea urchins, which in turn feed on kelp. Without the sea otter's presence, sea urchins could expand uncontrollably and destroy the kelp forest, leading to a decline in biodiversity.

Gray wolves

Another well-known example are the gray wolves in Yellowstone National Park in the USA. As top predators, they regulate the populations of elk and deer and thus prevent overgrazing of the vegetation. Their return to the park in 1995 allowed the threatened pastures and trees to recover.

African elephants

African elephants are another example of Keystone engineers. They uproot or eat trees, which changes the landscape and creates new habitats for other species.

Conclusion

Every species plays an important role in the earth's biological diversity. However, some have an above-average weight and are therefore referred to as keystone species. Their key role in the ecosystem is so important that they have a significant impact on biodiversity and the supra-regional balance. Furthermore, their importance illustrates the need for conservation measures to ensure the long-term conservation of these species. Conserving keystone species means preserving the health of our ecosystems.

Sources:

• Paine, R. T. (1969). "A note on trophic complexity and community stability". The American Naturalist. 103 (929): 91–93. doi:10.1086/282586.