Anjali Reddy, Shruthi Gunturu, Neeha Kakanuru

WHAT ARE KEYSTONE SPECIES?

 A keystone species is a species that has a disproportionately large effect on its natural environment relative to its abundance. In any arrangement or community, the “keystone” is considered one of the most vital parts. In fact, this term refers to the architectural term of a keystone arch, where taking out the keystone would result in the whole arch falling apart. In a marine ecosystem, or any type of ecosystem, a keystone species is an organism that helps hold the system together. Other organisms in an ecosystem often depend on keystone species. Without its keystone species, ecosystems would look very different. Some ecosystems might not be able to adapt to environmental changes if their keystone species disappeared. Keystone species help create the conditions for other wildlife and plants to thrive.Yet across America, many of these species are under threat from development and mismanagement. If we lose them, we'll also lose much of what we love about wild places.