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Amazing
NATURE
ADVOCATES
Protection of our
Keystone Species
holding ecosystems together
What EXACTLY is a KEYSTONE SPECIES?
It is an organism that holds an ecosystem
together and functioning. It is essentially
the glue that keeps a habitat together.
It can be an animal, plant, bacteria, fungi.
If it is removed, ecosystems can radically
change or disappear.
Why are keystone species very important and need our protection?
Just as important as an actual keystone is
to a building, a keystone species is important to an ecosystem. If it is no longer there,
collapse is inevitable. The damage is far
and wide and extensive. The fragile networks of entire habitats rest on the presence of keystone species. If they are removed, resulting consequences have a tremendous
domino effect.
The animals and organisms that we think are inconsequential are often important keystone species. Once their populations decrease or disappear, entire habitats and ecosystems suffer and radically change.
But rest assured, there is a tremendous number of folks who are doing all they can to make sure all kinds of keystone species are being protected. Across the world, many are making a huge effort to preserve the unsung heroes of nature.
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What are the different types
and their benefits?
There are different kinds of keystone species and they all have unique roles ...
Predators help control the populations of
their prey. This in turn can maintain populations of other predators. Without predators, other species may increase exponentially in number, which can displace or destroy other species and plants.
Ecosystem engineers are critical to the survival of others in the ecosystem through their physically changing or maintaining the ecosystem. They play a very important role in their environments and affect many other species in the habitat.
Mutualists interact for each other's benefit.
A perfect example of this are pollinators
such as bees. Through their transferring of pollen among plants, they enhance plant growth and the odds of fertilization.
Habitat providers provide shelter and habitats for other species.
Prey are very valuable as they are a
food source for other species.
We have much reason for hope as there are
so many people and organizations working hard each and every day to protect
all kinds of keystone species.
Their hard work is making
a better tomorrow for our world!
Here is a small sample of the many folks that are
doing their best to protect keystone species ...
