Question

Tiger sharks could be considered a keystone species because they ___

A) keep turtle populations under control, which protects sea grasses
B) are the highest trophic level in the food pyramid
C) have little impact on other aquatic populations
D) are able to adapt to most types of marine ecosystems

Answer 1

Tiger sharks are considered a keystone species because their predation on turtles helps to protect sea grasses and maintain marine ecosystem balance.

Step-by-step explanation:

Tiger sharks could be considered a keystone species because they keep turtle populations under control, which protects sea grasses. As a predator, they have a significant role in the marine ecosystem, managing the populations of prey such as sea turtles, which, if left unchecked, can overgraze and decimate sea grasses, leading to a reduction in biodiversity. This control helps to maintain the structure and balance within the ecosystem, making the shark a keystone species due to its disproportionate effect on the environment relative to its abundance. Harvesting sea turtles for the pet trade has shown to be unsustainable at certain levels and affects the balance, which highlights how interventions can harm keystone species and their important roles.