Foundation species

Definition

Foundation species are organisms that play a crucial role in creating or maintaining the structure of an ecological community. Their presence and activities significantly influence the types and numbers of other species in a community.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Foundation species often create habitats for other organisms through their biological activity.
2. An example of a foundation species is coral in coral reef ecosystems.
3. The loss of a foundation species can lead to significant changes or collapse of the community structure.
4. Foundation species can be plants, animals, or fungi depending on the ecosystem.
5. They often have a large biomass relative to other members of the community.

Review Questions

• What role do foundation species play in an ecological community?
• Can you give an example of a foundation species and explain its impact?
• How might the loss of a foundation species affect an ecological community?

Related terms

Keystone Species:

A species that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance.

Ecosystem Engineers:

Organisms that create, modify, maintain, or destroy habitats affecting many other organisms.

Biodiversity: The variety and variability of life forms within a given ecosystem, biome, or on the entire Earth.