Which type of species have the largest biomass and are largely relied on for food?

Which type of species have the largest biomass and are largely relied on for food?

• A. Dominant species
• B. Keystone species
• C. Invasive species
• D. Endemic species

Answer: (A)

The choice of dominant species as the correct answer is based on the definition and role of these organisms within their ecosystems. Dominant species are those that are most abundant or have the greatest biomass in a particular habitat. This high biomass means they contribute significantly to the energy flow and nutrient cycling within that ecosystem. In many cases, these species serve as the primary food source for other organisms, including herbivores and, subsequently, carnivores. For example, in a forest ecosystem, trees can be considered dominant species due to their large size and mass, providing shelter, food, and other resources for various wildlife. Similarly, in marine environments, certain types of algae or phytoplankton can be dominant species, forming the base of the food web. While keystone species play a crucial role in maintaining the structure of an ecological community, their abundance may not be as high as that of dominant species. Invasive species, on the other hand, are non-native organisms that can threaten local ecosystems, but they typically do not represent the largest biomass. Endemic species are those that are found in a specific geographical area and are not necessarily abundant or relied upon for food. Thus, dominant species align closely with the characteristics of having the largest biomass and serving as

The choice of dominant species as the correct answer is based on the definition and role of these organisms within their ecosystems. Dominant species are those that are most abundant or have the greatest biomass in a particular habitat. This high biomass means they contribute significantly to the energy flow and nutrient cycling within that ecosystem.

In many cases, these species serve as the primary food source for other organisms, including herbivores and, subsequently, carnivores. For example, in a forest ecosystem, trees can be considered dominant species due to their large size and mass, providing shelter, food, and other resources for various wildlife. Similarly, in marine environments, certain types of algae or phytoplankton can be dominant species, forming the base of the food web.

While keystone species play a crucial role in maintaining the structure of an ecological community, their abundance may not be as high as that of dominant species. Invasive species, on the other hand, are non-native organisms that can threaten local ecosystems, but they typically do not represent the largest biomass. Endemic species are those that are found in a specific geographical area and are not necessarily abundant or relied upon for food. Thus, dominant species align closely with the characteristics of having the largest biomass and serving as