Which of the following is an example of a keystone species in an ecosystem?a.Beesb.Mossc.Oak treed.

Understanding Keystone Species

1. Definition of Keystone Species: A keystone species is a species that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance. Its presence or absence can greatly impact the structure of the ecosystem.

2. Options Analysis:

   • a. Bees: Pollinators that are critical for the reproduction of many plants; their decline can lead to a decrease in plant diversity.
   • b. Moss: A plant that can help in soil formation and moisture retention but typically doesn’t have a large impact on other species when removed.
   • c. Oak Tree: A type of tree that supports a wide variety of insects, birds, and mammals through its acorns, leaves, and habitat.

Evaluation of Each Option

1. Bees:

   • Play a crucial role in pollination for many flowering plants, which in turn affects the entire food web.
   • Their absence can lead to diminished plant reproduction and thus a decline in the diversity of species that rely on those plants for habitat and food.

2. Moss:

   • While beneficial for creating moisture and soil stability, moss does not have a far-reaching ecological impact compared to the other options.

3. Oak Trees:

   • Provide habitat and food resources for numerous species, including birds, insects, and mammals. The loss of oak trees can drastically alter the ecosystem dynamics, given their extensive role.

Conclusion

Among the options provided, a. Bees and c. Oak Trees can both be considered keystone species due to their significant ecological roles. However, if we must choose one, c. Oak Tree is often seen as a textbook example of a keystone species due to its wide-ranging impact on many other organisms in the forest ecosystem.

Therefore, the most recognized keystone species in this case would be c. Oak Tree.