UPSC Exam  >  UPSC Questions  >  Which of the following is an example of a fou... Start Learning for Free
Which of the following is an example of a foundation species?
  • a)
    Bengal Tiger
  • b)
    Kelp in kelp forests
  • c)
    Atlantic Puffin
  • d)
    Indian Elephant
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?
Verified Answer
Which of the following is an example of a foundation species?a)Bengal ...
Kelp is a dominant primary producer in its ecosystem, making it a foundation species.
View all questions of this test
Most Upvoted Answer
Which of the following is an example of a foundation species?a)Bengal ...
Understanding Foundation Species
Foundation species are crucial organisms in an ecosystem that have a significant role in creating and maintaining its structure. They often provide essential habitats for various forms of life and contribute to the overall biodiversity of the environment.
Kelp as a Foundation Species
Among the options provided, kelp in kelp forests exemplifies a foundation species. Here's why:
  • Habitat Creation: Kelp forests serve as a habitat for numerous marine species, including fish, invertebrates, and mammals. They form a complex ecosystem that supports a diverse range of marine life.
  • Primary Production: Kelp, as a photosynthetic organism, contributes significantly to primary production in marine environments. This process supports the entire food web, making it vital for the survival of various organisms.
  • Stabilization of Ecosystem: The presence of kelp helps stabilize sediment and provides shelter from strong currents, which benefits other marine species and promotes biodiversity.
  • Influence on Nutrient Cycling: Kelp forests play a role in nutrient cycling, contributing to the health of the marine ecosystem by recycling nutrients essential for the growth of other organisms.

Comparison with Other Options
- Bengal Tiger: A predator, but not a foundation species as it does not create or maintain habitat structure.
- Atlantic Puffin: A bird species that relies on the habitat created by other organisms but does not fulfill the role of a foundation species.
- Indian Elephant: A keystone species influencing ecosystem dynamics, but not a foundation species in the same sense as kelp.
In summary, kelp in kelp forests is a quintessential example of a foundation species due to its crucial role in supporting marine ecosystems.
Explore Courses for UPSC exam

Top Courses for UPSC

Question Description
Which of the following is an example of a foundation species?a)Bengal Tigerb)Kelp in kelp forestsc)Atlantic Puffind)Indian ElephantCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer? for UPSC 2025 is part of UPSC preparation. The Question and answers have been prepared according to the UPSC exam syllabus. Information about Which of the following is an example of a foundation species?a)Bengal Tigerb)Kelp in kelp forestsc)Atlantic Puffind)Indian ElephantCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer? covers all topics & solutions for UPSC 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, meanings, examples, exercises and tests below for Which of the following is an example of a foundation species?a)Bengal Tigerb)Kelp in kelp forestsc)Atlantic Puffind)Indian ElephantCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?.
Solutions for Which of the following is an example of a foundation species?a)Bengal Tigerb)Kelp in kelp forestsc)Atlantic Puffind)Indian ElephantCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer? in English & in Hindi are available as part of our courses for UPSC. Download more important topics, notes, lectures and mock test series for UPSC Exam by signing up for free.
Here you can find the meaning of Which of the following is an example of a foundation species?a)Bengal Tigerb)Kelp in kelp forestsc)Atlantic Puffind)Indian ElephantCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer? defined & explained in the simplest way possible. Besides giving the explanation of Which of the following is an example of a foundation species?a)Bengal Tigerb)Kelp in kelp forestsc)Atlantic Puffind)Indian ElephantCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?, a detailed solution for Which of the following is an example of a foundation species?a)Bengal Tigerb)Kelp in kelp forestsc)Atlantic Puffind)Indian ElephantCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer? has been provided alongside types of Which of the following is an example of a foundation species?a)Bengal Tigerb)Kelp in kelp forestsc)Atlantic Puffind)Indian ElephantCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer? theory, EduRev gives you an ample number of questions to practice Which of the following is an example of a foundation species?a)Bengal Tigerb)Kelp in kelp forestsc)Atlantic Puffind)Indian ElephantCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer? tests, examples and also practice UPSC tests.
Explore Courses for UPSC exam

Top Courses for UPSC

Explore Courses
Signup for Free!
Signup to see your scores go up within 7 days! Learn & Practice with 1000+ FREE Notes, Videos & Tests.
10M+ students study on EduRev