Justin Wang

A review of the effects of human activity on keystone species: the good and the bad

Started June 6, 2022

Abstract or project description

I'm writing a review paper about the impact of human activity on keystone species. Keystone species are important in many ecosystems and human activity has caused many changes to ecosystems through these vital organisms. Using previous publications and research done on the topic, I want to explore what has changed in keystone species in human active areas. I will look at multiple examples and see the effects of human activity on keystone species and its ecosystem. These examples range from changes in biodiversity and mortality rate to the changes in the food web. For example, the removal of wolves in Yellowstone park led to the secondary extinction of multiple plant species through overgrazing by elk, along with the resulting changes in the food web. This research is important for understanding how human interference is affecting keystone species, positive or negative. I will also discuss how future affairs and activities on specific ecosystems should be handled to limit the negative effects on keystone species and ecosystems.