Keystone species
A keystone species is a species which, while not necessarily the most abundant in an environment, plays a key role within the environment. In the Namib desert, the Camel Thorn tree fills one of the roles as a keystone species. Due to the lack of trees overall in this desert, the presence of these plants is beneficial to multiple organisms. Shade and shelter for animals is provided, as an escape from constant, intense sunlight. It is also available for bird nesting. However, a unique role that classifies this as a keystone species is the Camel Thorn's facilitation of seed dispersal. Plant life is not abundant in the desert biome, so any aid in the spread of seeds is beneficial.
A keystone species is a species which, while not necessarily the most abundant in an environment, plays a key role within the environment. In the Namib desert, the Camel Thorn tree fills one of the roles as a keystone species. Due to the lack of trees overall in this desert, the presence of these plants is beneficial to multiple organisms. Shade and shelter for animals is provided, as an escape from constant, intense sunlight. It is also available for bird nesting. However, a unique role that classifies this as a keystone species is the Camel Thorn's facilitation of seed dispersal. Plant life is not abundant in the desert biome, so any aid in the spread of seeds is beneficial.