Elephants Are Not the Most Dominant Species in African Grasslands

question 16

Multiple Choice

Elephants are not the most dominant species in African grasslands, yet they influence community structure. The grasslands contain scattered woody plants, but they are kept in check by the uprooting activities of the elephants. Take away the elephants, and the grasslands convert to forests or to shrublands. The newly growing forests support fewer species than the previous grasslands. Which of the following describes why elephants are the keystone species in this scenario?

• A) Essentially all of the other species depend on the presence of the elephants to maintain the community.
• B) Grazing animals depend upon the elephants to convert forests to grassland.
• C) Elephants prevent drought in African grasslands.
• D) Elephants are the biggest herbivore in this community.
• E) Elephants help other populations survive by keeping out many of the large African predators.

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Definitions:

Intimate Femicide

The killing of a woman by an intimate partner or ex-partner, a severe form of violence against women.

Aboriginal Ancestry

Refers to individuals or populations with lineage that can be traced back to the original inhabitants of a region, prior to colonization.

Separated

The condition of being apart from something or someone, often implying a division or break in a previously connected or unified system.

Gender-neutral

Pertaining to, or advocating for, the avoidance of distinguishing roles according to people's sex or gender, in order to prevent discrimination.