Biodiversity and Keystone Species

Species that are crucial to the functioning of an ecosystem

• keystone species

• exotic species

• invasive species

• indicator species

• endangered species

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

The variety of organisms in a given area is called:

• a species

• a gene

• abiotic factors

• biodiversity

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

This biome has high biodiveristy (variety of different species):

• tropical rain forest

• desert

• tundra

• none of these

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

What is a keystone species?

• A species that is most abundant in an ecosystem.

• A species that plays a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecological community.

• A species that has no predators in its ecosystem.

• A species that can live in a variety of ecosystems.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-2

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

Which of the following is an example of a keystone species?

• Cattle

• Sea otter

• Grass

• Mosquito

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-2

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

Why are keystone species important for biodiversity?

• They are the most numerous species in their ecosystems.

• They provide food for all other species.

• They help to maintain the structure and integrity of the ecosystem.

• They have no predators, ensuring their survival.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-2

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

What is a trophic cascade?

• A process where nutrients flow from one trophic level to another.

• A series of secondary extinctions triggered by the primary extinction of a key species in an ecosystem.

• The migration of species from one habitat to another.

• The increase in population size of a species at the bottom of the food chain.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-2

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

How can the removal of a keystone species affect an ecosystem?

• It can increase biodiversity.

• It can lead to a more stable ecosystem.

• It can cause a trophic cascade and disrupt the ecosystem balance.

• It has no significant effect.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

What could be a direct consequence of removing a top predator from an ecosystem?

• A decrease in the population of primary consumers.

• An increase in the diversity of plant species.

• A decrease in the overall biodiversity of the ecosystem.

• An increase in the population of herbivores, leading to overgrazing.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

A species that plays a critical role in the health, maintenance, growth, or definition of an ecosystem.

• keystone

• invasive

• engineer

• predator

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-5