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Why are keystone species critical to the survival of an ecosystem?
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ecosystem
Tundra and lakes during summer in the Yamal Peninsula of Siberia, Russia. Tundra ecosystems are found primarily in the Low Arctic region of North America and Eurasia. Most regions—with the exception of rock outcrops, dry ridge tops, and river gravel bars—are fully vegetated, primarily by dwarf shrubs, lichens, and mosses.
Keystone species are critical to an ecosystem's survival because they have a disproportionately large impact on their environment. These species, which can be apex predators or vital food sources, help maintain biodiversity by controlling populations that might otherwise dominate or by providing essential resources for many other species. Without keystone species, the entire structure and diversity of a community can be significantly altered or collapse, much like an arch would without its keystone. For example, the starfish Pisaster ochraceus controls mussel populations, and figs provide year-round food for many animals in tropical forests.123