Katie has a PhD in maths, specializing in the intersection of dynamical systems and number theory. She reports on topics from maths and history to society and animals. Katie has a PhD in maths, ...

MUNCIE, Ind. – Keystone species are plants, animals, or fungi that significantly impact the environment. When talking about plants, these species can be home to many native insects and other animals.

Question: Yesterday I read that “oaks are a keystone species”. What exactly does that mean? Answer: A keystone species is a plant, animal or microorganism that is vitally important to its environment.

Ecology and Society, Vol. 9, No. 3 (Dec 2004) (18 pages) ABSTRACT. Ecologists have long recognized that some species, by virtue of the key roles they play in the overall structure and functioning of ...