Discovery of Keystone Species

Ecology & Ecosystems 1966

Discoverers: Robert T. Paine

Overview

Experimental demonstration that a single species (Pisaster ochraceus starfish) could determine the structure of an entire intertidal community.

Significance

Introduced the keystone species concept, showing that not all species contribute equally to ecosystem function and some are disproportionately important.

Methodology

Removal experiments in intertidal zones of Washington state, documenting community collapse when the top predator starfish was excluded.

Impact