Question

The animal species controlling ecosystem functioning is known as

• A. Edge species
• B. Pioneer species
• C. Keystone species
• D. Umbrella species

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

• A keystone species is a plant or animal that plays a unique and crucial role in the way an ecosystem function. Without keystone species, the ecosystem would be dramatically different or cease to exist altogether. Some keystone species, such as the wolf, are also apex predators.
• EDGE species refers to animals that are Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (hence EDGE). These species are considered to be one of a kind and, as its acronym suggests, are nearing extinction.
• Pioneer species are hardy species which are the first to colonize previously disrupted or damaged ecosystems, beginning a chain of ecological succession that ultimately leads to a more biodiverse steady-state ecosystem.
• Umbrella species are species selected for making conservation-related decisions, typically because protecting these species indirectly protects the many other species that make up the ecological community of its habitat.

So, the correct answer is 'C'.