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Cassowaries are considered a keystone species as they play an important role in the ecology of the rainforest where they live, as they are vital in dispersing seeds in their native forests.
They are frugivores which feed on the fruit of up to 238 different species of plants. Because they are able to eat larger fruits, they can therefore can disperse large rainforest fruits after the seeds have passed through their digestive system, which is gentle enough to allow the seeds to remain viable. The cassowary has a wide range, so is also the only long distance means for dispersing large seeded fruits. The seeds are excreted into a pile of the cassowary's own dung, meaning the seeds have their own ready-made pile of fertiliser. The smell of the dung even helps to deter seed-eating predators such as the white-tailed rat. Of the hundreds of fruit-bearing species on which the cassowary feeds, between 70 and 100 of them appear to rely completely on the cassowary for dispersal.
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ProfessorSouthern Cassowaries of Australia are considered a keystone species. They play an important role in the ecology of the rainforest and bushland areas where they live, as they are vital in dispersing seeds in their native forests.
They are frugivores which feed on the fruit of up to 238 different species of plants. Because they are able to eat larger fruits, they can therefore can disperse large rainforest fruits after the seeds have passed through their digestive system, which is gentle enough to allow the seeds to remain viable. The cassowary has a wide range, so is also the only long distance means for dispersing large seeded fruits. The seeds are excreted into a pile of the cassowary's own dung, meaning the seeds have their own ready-made pile of fertiliser. The smell of the dung even helps to deter seed-eating predators such as the white-tailed rat. Of the hundreds of fruit-bearing species on which the cassowary feeds, between 70 and 100 of them appear to rely completely on the cassowary for dispersal.
The sea star Pisaster ochraceus is also considered a keystone species. It has been found that when this sea star is removed from its intertidal habitat, its ecosystem undergoes huge changes, with remaining species in the food web immediately competing with each other to occupy limited space and resources.
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A keystone species is a species whose presence does what?
A keystone species is a species whose presence has a disproportionately large impact on its ecosystem compared to its abundance. If a keystone species is removed from its ecosystem, it can lead to significant changes in the ecosystem's structure and function.
Why is the tropical rain forest able to support so many species?
The tropical rainforest supports a high number of species due to its stable warm climate, abundant rainfall, and diverse habitats. These factors provide a variety of niches for different species to thrive, leading to high biodiversity. Additionally, the complex relationships and interactions between species in the rainforest contribute to its rich diversity.
Is a tiger a keystone or endemic species?
A tiger can be considered a keystone species, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining its ecosystem's balance by regulating prey populations. However, tigers are not endemic, as they have a wide distribution across various countries in Asia and some parts of Russia.
Animals in tropical rainforest?
Animals in tropical rainforests include a diverse range of species such as jaguars, sloths, toucans, and poison dart frogs. These animals have adapted to the dense vegetation, high humidity, and warm temperatures of the rainforest biome. Many rely on the rich biodiversity of the rainforest for food and shelter.
How many animals live in the daintree?
The Daintree Rainforest is home to a rich diversity of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. It is estimated that there are over 12,000 different species of insects, 430 species of birds, 30 species of amphibians, and 65 species of reptiles living in the Daintree Rainforest. Additionally, the rainforest is also home to unique animals such as the southern cassowary, tree kangaroos, and various species of possums and bats.
