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Keystone Species are organisms within an ecosystem that have a large impact on their natutal environment. Keystone species play a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecological community affecting many other organisms by determining the types and numbers of various other species in their communities. Without keystone species, the ecosystem would be very different or be unable to exist. The "Keystone Species" concept was introduced in 1969 by the zoologist Robert T. Paine.
Find out more here: Role of Keystone Species in an Ecosystem
The term “keystone” is an architectural reference to a wedge-shaped stone at the top of an archway. It is the last stone builders place in the arch to lock the other stones into position and enables the arch to bear a building’s weight. If the keystone is removed, the arch—and possibly the entire building—could collapse.
Oysters
Horseshoe Crabs
Mummichog
Clams
In Unit 2 of our Advanced Ecology curriculum, students explore Keystone Species of the NJ Pine Barrens & Barnegat Bay. Find out more about these unique organisms by clicking on their links below:
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