Question

Despite having a relatively small biomass, populations of grizzly bears often have strong effects on their communities. The grizzly bear is therefore an example of a

A. foundation species.
B. keystone species.
C. dominant species.
D. trophic facilitator.

Answer 1

Grizzly bears are considered a keystone species because they have a large impact on their ecosystem despite their small numbers, affecting many other species in their community.

Step-by-step explanation:

Grizzly bears, despite their relatively small biomass, often have strong effects on their communities, which is a characteristic of a keystone species. A keystone species is one that has a disproportionately large impact on its environment relative to its abundance. Major changes in the numbers of a keystone species affect the populations of many other species within the community. For instance, the reintroduction of wolves in Yellowstone National Park, a keystone species, led to changes in grazing behavior of elk, which subsequently altered the plant and animal community structures. Conversely, a foundation species like kelp, provides the bedrock of a community by being a primary producer and typically being abundant.