Chapter 6: Are All Species Equal?

In architecture, the keystone is a stone in the middle and at the top of an archway that keeps the entire rest of the arch together. Without that stone in place, all the rest would fall and there would no longer be a structure to walk under; this concept is applied to natural ecosystems in the same way. In every natural environment, there are certain species that act as the 'glue' that keeps the system running. These species can be top predators, middle-of-the-foodchain organisms, and even plants. No matter their perceived importance, power, or size, they fill critical roles in managing endlessly complicated networks of life. Remove them, and once bustling ecosystems crumble at surprising speeds.

Reading and Discussion Questions

Answer the following questions in the comments section below after you've finished reading the chapter:

1. What is the "Green World Hypothesis"?
2. What is a Keystone Species, and why are they important for ecosystems?
3. What is a Foundation Species, and why are they important for ecosystems?
4. How does the concept of a keystone species explain how overfishing effects marine ecosystems?

Activities

1. In home gardens and residential landscapes, keystone species tend to be plants that wildlife can use for food and shelter. Research what native plants are most useful to wildlife in your specific area, and identify whether you have any planted in your gardening space.

Further Research and Reading

Wikipedia: Keystone Species

Wikipedia: Speciesism