Keystone species play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity by having a disproportionately large impact on their ecosystem relative to their abundance. They help to regulate the populations of other species, control invasive species, and maintain the balance of the ecosystem. If a keystone species is removed, it can have a cascading effect on the entire ecosystem, leading to a loss of biodiversity. Thus, the presence of keystone species is essential for the health and stability of an ecosystem.
