Keystone species are organisms that have a disproportionately large impact on their environment relative to their abundance, playing a crucial role in maintaining the structure and balance of an ecosystem. Their removal can lead to significant changes in the ecosystem, often resulting in a loss of biodiversity and the collapse of ecological networks.
Vegetation plays a crucial role in controlling erosion by stabilizing soil with root systems, reducing the impact of raindrops, and promoting water infiltration. The presence of plant cover significantly decreases the rate of soil loss and helps maintain ecosystem balance and land productivity.
Nutrient uptake disruption refers to any interference or alteration in the process by which organisms absorb essential nutrients from their environment, potentially leading to deficiencies and impaired biological functions. This can be caused by factors such as environmental stressors, soil composition changes, or genetic mutations, impacting plant growth, animal health, and ecosystem balance.