keystone species

Scientific  

/ kē′stōn′ /

1. A species whose presence and role within an ecosystem has a disproportionate effect on other organisms within the system. A keystone species is often a dominant predator whose removal allows a prey population to explode and often decreases overall diversity. Other kinds of keystone species are those, such as coral or beavers, that significantly alter the habitat around them and thus affect large numbers of other organisms.

2. Compare indicator species

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Example Sentences

They "play a central role in the food web, consuming fish and invertebrates and recycling nutrients" and are one of the "keystone species" of their ecosystem.

From Barron's

Some scientists trying to recover sunflower sea stars see the finding as a strong guide for future research — and efforts to boost the decimated keystone species.

From Los Angeles Times

The orangutan is a keystone species and plays a vital role in maintaining the health of the ecosystem.

From Salon

Sunflower sea stars are considered a keystone species, meaning they are critical in regulating the stability and diversity of their ecosystems.

From Los Angeles Times

The animals are regarded as "keystone" species which can create and maintain habitats for diverse other species.

From BBC