Answered: Sea otters, Enhydra lutris, are…

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)

11th Edition

ISBN:9780134580999

Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn

Publisher:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn

Chapter1: The Human Body: An Orientation

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 1RQ: The correct sequence of levels forming the structural hierarchy is A. (a) organ, organ system,...

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Sea otters, Enhydra lutris, are predators of sea urchins, Strongylocentrotus franciscanus. Sea urchins, in turn, feed on kelp. A study was conducted to determine the effect that Enhydra lutris has on kelp biodiversity. To do so, three bays that have had sea otter populations for varying amounts of time were assessed. Two different types of kelp were studied: a perennial kelp, Laminaria groenlandia, and other annual kelps. The results are shown in the graph below. Additional studies have illustrated the importance of sea otter populations in kelp ecosystems. In the absence of sea otters, the ecosystem collapses. What role do sea otters serve in this ecosystem?

a) Keystone species

b) Dominant species

c) Competitive exclusion

d) Obligate species

50
perennial L groenlandia
annual kelps
10
5
urchins kelps urchins kelps urchins kelps
Torch Bay
no otters
Deer Harbor
otters <2yrs otters 10yrs
Surge Bay
Density (#•m-2)

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