How do the prairie dogs in this story meet the definition of a keystone species?
A) They don't meet the definition of a keystone species; the system did fine without them. The predators turned to cattle, and the grasses did better in the compact soil.
B) Their burrows loosened the soil and served as homes for other species; they helped with nutrient recycling. They helped water infiltrate into the soil and kept soil loose for grass roots. When they were removed, the system deteriorated.
C) The availability of prairie dogs kept the predators in check; when they were removed, the predator populations grew dramatically. They kept the soil aerated and compact.
D) When the prairie dogs were removed, the cattle declined; this meets the definition of a keystone species.
E) Their burrows caused cattle to break their legs and die. This made them directly responsible for the welfare of another species, which meets the definition of a keystone species.
Answer: B
If the answers is incorrect or not given, you can answer the above question in the comment box. If the answers is incorrect or not given, you can answer the above question in the comment box.