Yes, keystone species have a significant impact on their ecosystems despite often having smaller population sizes. The concept of a keystone species was introduced by ecologist Robert Paine in the 1960s, and it refers to a species that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance.
Here are a few reasons why keystone species can exert such a strong influence:
1. **Ecological Role**: Keystone species often


