The sea otter was referred to as a keystone specie in its ecosystem. What was meant by this statement?

Question

NEED HELP!!PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!

Answer 1

A species so critical to an ecosystem that its removal could potentially destroy the entire system.

Sea otters are a classic example of a keystone species; their presence affects the ecosystem more profoundly than their size and numbers would suggest. Sea otters keep the population of certain benthic (sea floor) herbivores, particularly sea urchins, in check. Sea urchins graze on the lower stems of kelp, causing the kelp to drift away and die. Loss of the habitat and nutrients provided by kelp forests leads to profound cascade effects on the marine ecosystem. North Pacific areas that do not have sea otters often turn into urchin barrens, with abundant sea urchins and no kelp forest

Another good example of this are Blue Jays, which plant acorns that give rise to oak forests. Without Blue Jays, oak forests are not naturally replenished and without the forests, all other species in the ecosystem cannot survive. It is important to consider keystone species when making any decisions that could affect the natural environment. A small impact on keystone species could cause major disruption for the whole ecosystem.

Answer 2

Exactly what she said :)  

GO SEA OTTERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!