TEAS 7 science practice questions Related

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What impact would the removal of a keystone species have in an ecosystem?

  • A. Lead to a decrease in competition among other species
  • B. Cause a slight increase in primary productivity
  • C. Have a minimal impact on the overall ecosystem structure
  • D. Disrupt the food web and cause cascading effects on other populations
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Keystone species play a crucial role in maintaining the balance and structure of an ecosystem due to their significant influence. If a keystone species is removed, it disrupts the delicate food web dynamics and can trigger cascading effects throughout the ecosystem. The disruption in predator-prey relationships can lead to population declines and even extinctions of other species. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because the removal of a keystone species would not decrease competition among other species, cause a slight increase in primary productivity, or have a minimal impact on the overall ecosystem structure. Instead, it would have a profound impact, disrupting the food web and causing cascading effects on other populations.