Biology

The correct answer is C.They are often predators.

A keystone species is one that has a significant impact on its ecosystem, often through its role in regulating the population of other species. Predators are often keystone species because they help control the populations of prey species, which in turn maintains the balance of the ecosystem.

Predators can influence ecosystem structure by indirectly benefiting plant life, other herbivores, and even other predators.

Why the other options are not correct:

A.They are usually herbivores: While some herbivores can be keystone species (e.g., large grazing animals like bison), being herbivores is not a defining characteristic of keystone species.

Click "Show Answer" to reveal the answer and analysis